Food Delivery Riders Who Flout Covid-19 Safe Distancing Rules Face 1 Year Suspension
In these troubling Covid-19 times, food delivery riders are our heroes as they save citizens with food for the soul. Travelling all across the island, they risk exposure to the coronavirus to deliver our orders right to our doorsteps.
But with great power, comes great responsibility, and failing this responsibility also means great punishment.
Food delivery riders caught not complying with safe distancing regulations now face suspension of 12 months across the major platforms – GrabFood, Deliveroo and foodpanda. This is on top of existing penalties that apply to the general public.
According to a press release by Enterprise Singapore (ESG) on Wednesday (15 Apr), the stiffer penalties come as demand for food delivery services soars – increasing about 20-30% since the ‘Circuit Breaker’ came into effect.
This demand surge is expected to persist for the time being.
Measures to safeguard riders & customers during Covid-19
GrabFood, Deliveroo and foodpanda have since increased communication with their riders, to ensure awareness and compliance with safe distancing regulations.
These include:
- Observing safe distancing at all times and places
- Wearing a mask
- Mandating contactless delivery where possible
- Frequent washing or sanitising of hands
- Regular cleaning of food carriers
F&B restaurants caught allowing riders to cluster together may face suspension or fines for failing to comply with safe distancing measures.
Under the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act, first time offenders face a fine of up to $10,000, jail of up to 6 months, or both. Subsequent offences may lead to fines of up to $20,000, imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both.
Whistle-blow errant companies
Customers can do their part by reporting errant riders to their companies.
If you come across any business or individual that has flouted regulations, you can also report them to Covid_GoBusiness@mti.gov.sg.
Of course, only use the platform responsibly and not to call out people for the sake of it.
Maintaining strict standards to uphold national safety
While penalties may seem harsh for riders who are serving the community, their frequent interactions with customers and F&B establishments necessitate them.
At this critical juncture, safety is of utmost concern as Singapore recorded a new high of 447 confirmed Covid-19 cases on Wednesday (15 Apr).
If food delivery riders follow these measures, they should have nothing to worry about.
But safety isn’t only their responsibility, it’s ours too. Let’s hold ourselves to these standards as well, and play our part in combating the Covid-19 crisis.
Featured image adapted from CGTN.
