The Montreal-based passenger rail service says it’s making the change as ridership increases with the gradual re-opening of the economy.The policy is in line with Transport Canada guidelines for wearing face coverings for planes, trains, ships and public transit.

Masks are mandatory for employees who interact with customers.

Masks must be worn throughout trips, except for when eating or drinking and when physical distancing is not possible in stations and at boarding.

Via Rail says it will have a limited number of disposable masks available for passengers who don’t have one at boarding.

Passengers with medical conditions that result in trouble breathing unrelated to COVID-19, infants under two years old and small children will not have to wear masks — also people with certain disabilities.