A suite of worker safety features was announced by DoorDash on Monday. The changes include a new ability for delivery workers to block customers who make them feel unsafe, cancel an order if a customer is rude in a text or call, and other shifts to the Door Dash app.
In its announcement, the platform said it was clear-eyed about safety and that there would always be more work to be done. New technology and safety features are always being worked on to help Dashers stay safe.
In the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, most of the new safety features are being rolled out. Dashers in those countries can now report safety incidents via in-app chat or calls. Workers will be able to block future deliveries to a customer if they report an incident.
A chat feature is being introduced by the delivery service that will detect potentially inappropriate messages. If a Dasher gets a message that is interpreted as threatening or offensive, they will have the option to cancel the order.
DoorDash said it is testing real-time safety alert through its website. In the event of emergencies like bomb threats and building fires, the company will contact its couriers and begin cancelling orders to the affected areas. DoorDash will send reminders to encourage customers to turn on exterior lights.
Automatic check-in messages will be instituted if a delivery is taking longer than expected. If they don't complete an order within the expected time, they'll be prompted to choose "I'm okay" or "I feel unsafe" DoorDash workers will get a call if they don't respond before the clock runs out. Check-ins will be launched in New York City and Washington, D.C. before a broader U.S. roll out.
It can be dangerous to work in delivery work. There have been a few attacks against couriers. The company has tried to address the problem in the past. DoorDash introduced an emergency assistance button for Dashers.
As useful as some of the new features may be, they fail to address one of the biggest safety issues faced by DoorDash and beyond. Accidents and being hit by cars are included. Delivery workers are more likely to go out during bad weather if surge pricing is used. The emphasis is on speed. There is a risk of serious injury and death among the infrastructure designed to accommodate cars first.
Delivery workers are often ignored when they report crimes to their employers or law enforcement.
Delivery is so dangerous due to the business model. Contract workers are more likely to work for the company than employees. They are left vulnerable without basic protections. Legislation was passed in New York City to set standards for the delivery industry. Similar policies haven't spread across the country.
The company did not immediately respond to Gizmodo's request for more information on the coming changes and for any data on worker safety.
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