A BUS driver has been suspended for insisting on wearing a mask with his glasses while driving, which his employer believes could cause his spectacle to steam up, blocking his vision.

A spokesman for First Bus told the Worcester News they suspended the driver, who does not wish to be identified, because they believe that wearing a mask may cause a person's glasses to steam up, making driving unsafe.

Nigel Eggleton, managing director at First Worcester, said: "Throughout the pandemic our main priority has been to keep our staff and customers as safe as possible whilst working and travelling on our buses.

“We have introduced many safety measures such as social distancing in seating areas, reduced capacities, enhanced cleaning processes and provided unlimited personal protection equipment, including sanitizer and wipes for our drivers.

“In addition to these measures, a screen is fitted between the drivers cab area and the platform which allows for communication to take place and also means a driver does not need to wear a face covering as agreed after undertaking risk assessments involving safety and union representatives.

“The risk assessments did raise concerns that if a person wearing glasses also had a face covering in place, it was very likely their glasses could steam up which could impair vision and become a danger to driving which is why we are upholding this rule”.

Former bus driver David Crabb said this kind of treatment of bus drivers is ‘beyond a joke’ and needs addressing.

He said: “First bus in Worcester have suspended a driver for wearing a mask to keep him and his passengers safe. Drivers cannot be treated like this.

"Apparently company policy says you cannot wear a mask whilst driving if you wear glasses. But surely if you want to wear a mask, that’s down to the driver? It’s his safety at risk. There is no law preventing him from wearing both a mask and glasses."

Face masks on public transport – whether people are getting on buses at Worcester bus station or boarding trains at the city’s Shrub Hill or Foregate Street stations – have been legally enforceable since Monday June 15, 2020.

What are your thoughts? Is wearing both a mask and glasses safe when driving? Share your views in the comments.