COVID 19 - Frequently asked Questions
Customers can choose to stand (lower deck only). Standing passengers will not increase the number of passengers each bus is able to carry, based on our new seat restrictions.
We’re following Govt guidance to increase ventilation in enclosed spaces; unfortunately this applies come rain or shine. Fresh air flow helps keep bus travel safe during the pandemic and we’re grateful to everyone for supporting measures we’re taking to look after each other.
- Read more about I’ve heard air conditioning is harmful/risky as it just keeps spreading coronavirus?
Where air conditioning systems are used on our buses, they draw on air from the outside, so keeping a constant fresh flow of air circulating through the vehicle and are a further way to help keep bus travel safe.
It is your legal responsibility to wear a face covering when travelling on public transport unless you have an exemption. The driver cannot enforce this but you may be liable to a fixed penalty notice of up to £200 in England (reduced to £100 if paid within 14 days).
Exemptions for the use of face coverings will apply to those with certain health conditions, disabled people and children under the age of 11 (in England and Wales). Children under the age of 3 should not wear face coverings. To see the government guidance on face covering exemptions please follow this link - England
Government advice is that people shouldn’t travel if they are suffering from coronavirus symptoms including a persistent cough or high temperature and should follow public health guidelines.
Yes, we were one of the first bus operators to do this and we have made hand sanitiser products and gloves available for all staff.
It is possible that that you might see ‘Bus Full’ signs as some services reach their revised capacity more quickly. If you are waiting at a bus stop and the bus drives past, it is likely it has reached its reduced seating capacity. If the bus does stop, but is near capacity, the driver will only allow one person to board for every person that gets off, so you may need to allow extra time for your journey and be prepared to wait.
There is usually sufficient capacity on our buses but it's best to plan your travel in advance.
With the latest version of the First Bus App ⇒ you can now track your bus live on a map and it also displays how many seats are available on each bus. The Space checker tool ⇒ also helps you to see when the busier and quieter times of the day are likely to be for up to 7 days ahead.
No, customers should use their own sanitiser and face covering.
Please see the government advice on using and making a face covering:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-wear-and-make-a-cloth-face-covering.