No standing, keeping the windows open and stay two metres away from others - these are some of the new social distancing guidelines being put in place on Arriva buses.
The buses will no longer be taking as many passengers, meaning some people may have to wait longer to get on.
Seats within two metres of the driver are taped off and passengers are being advised to sit next to the window, keeping spaces free in front, behind and next to them.
Passengers will also not be allowed to queue or stand up in the aisle and face masks are being advised for anyone needing to use the bus.
When the bus is full according to their new, smaller capacities, the vehicle will show a "bus full" sign and drivers will only stop to let people off.
Only one passenger will be able to board for every one that gets off.
Wheelchair spaces will remain and anyone travelling with someone from their own household is urged to set together.
This is the full advice from Arriva:
• If you can, wear a face covering in enclosed spaces where social distancing is not possible
• Carry hand sanitiser with you if possible
• Keep windows open to help with ventilation
• Avoid sitting in seats which face each other
• Sit next to a window and leave a space in front, behind and next to you
• If you are travelling with someone from your household, please sit next to each other
• Pay by contactless or via the Arriva m-ticket app – only pay by cash if you have the exact change as drivers cannot issue change
• Do not stand or queue in the aisle of the bus or next to the driver
• Be patient and wait for passengers to get off the bus before you board
• Keep a 2 metre distance away from other people at bus stops
Simon Finnie area managing director from Arriva, said: “The safety of our passengers and colleagues is of the utmost importance to us and in addition to these new measures, we continue to operate in line with previous government advice to ensure bus travel is as safe as possible for those needing to make essential journeys.
"We appreciate some people may be concerned by the new capacity levels and would like to assure you that we want everyone’s journey to be as smooth and as safe as possible.
"We will be closely monitoring and adapting services in line with demand, wherever we can, to help ensure this is the case.
"We have an enhanced cleaning regime in place, ensuring all touch-point surfaces, both on our buses and in our depots, are regularly deep cleaned. Our driver’s protective screens have also been enhanced.
"Guidance on social distancing is clearly marked on board our buses with notices advising passengers where to sit.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers for their continued support and encouragement of our bus workers during this time, it is a pleasure for us to be able to serve our local communities.”
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