Faced with a shortage of available and willing personnel, DoorDash has improved conditions for independent delivery contractors. The Company has improved the availability of free and discounted road safety equipment and has partnered with the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives to present educational programs and advocates for safety. DoorDash is now offering occupational accident insurance at no cost. The Company has also introduced SafeDash, a service provided by ADT to provide a greater level of security especially for women. In the event of any emergency or unusual situation, the deliverer can contact ADT through an app. or telephone with a direct relay to 911.
Elizabeth Jarvis-Shean, Vice President of Communications and Policy at DoorDash stated, "our commitment to safety essential to what our teams at DoorDash work towards everyday". She added, "We have heard from ‘Dashers’ across the country who tell us that safety is a top consideration when choosing the platform, they wish to work with". SafeDash was born out of feedback from ‘Dashers’ and our hope is with access to these services, we will be giving them another resource to feel safe and secure on the road".
It is inevitable that the lead taken by DoorDash will be followed by other delivery services all of whom appear to be finding difficulty in recruiting and retaining contractors.