Preventing COVID-19 Exposure in Employer-Provided Vehicles

Jan 18th 2021

Preventing COVID-19 Exposure in Employer-Provided Vehicles

Time spent with others in passenger vehicles may increase the risk of exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19. 

These steps can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 when workers are being transported to and from worksites using employer-provided vehicles.

  • Screen passengers for symptoms of COVID-19 before boarding.
  • Limit the number of people in a vehicle by using multiple vehicles or by taking multiple trips to facilitate physical distancing.
  • Instruct passengers to sit as far apart as possible; avoid seating more than two people per row unless they are from the same household or cohort.
  • Have drivers and passengers wear a face covering. Train workers on the proper use, maintenance, and disposal of face coverings.
  • Open windows when two or more people are in the vehicle, weather permitting. Set the heating and cooling fan on a high setting and do not use the recirculation setting.
  • Use vehicles with customized clear barriers installed between the driver and passengers.
  • Instruct passengers to board and exit buses in one direction.
  • Clean and disinfect commonly-touched surfaces such as the steering wheel, door handles, seat belts, and armrests before using a vehicle to transport workers, and between each trip. Use an EPA-registered List N disinfectant and follow manufacturer instructions for use. Use appropriate personal protective equipment such as disposable gloves while cleaning and disinfecting the vehicle.
  • Instruct drivers and passengers to wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before entering and after leaving the vehicle. If soap and water are not readily available, have them use hand sanitizer/wipes containing at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol.
  • Advise those in the vehicle to avoid touching common surfaces and handing objects to others.
  • Train workers on your workplace safety policies regarding prevention of COVID-19 during transport.
  • Encourage workers to report any safety and health concerns to a supervisor.

For more information, visit www.osha.gov/coronavirus