TWU LOCAL 100 CORONAVIRUS UPDATE & FACT SHEET FOR TRANSIT WORKERS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2020 --
MTA workforce. The MTA is not aware of any NYC Transit worker testing positive for the virus. Some workers were voluntarily quarantined as a precaution because they had recently traveled to China where the virus originated. It was ultimately concluded those who were quarantined did not have the virus.
Kronos Suspension. At the union’s insistence, the MTA is in the process of shutting down and suspending use of the Kronos fingerscan system. Local 100 members do not have to touch these devices. Continue to swipe your pass.
Ramped up cleaning. The MTA has committed to cleaning and disinfecting worker facilities and areas more frequently, including crew rooms, Train Operator and Conductor cabs, lunchrooms, Bus Operator compartments, and bathrooms. The MTA also pledged to provide hand sanitizer at work locations, including station booths.
Masks and Gloves You can wear a mask for your safety or comfort. It’s your choice. A supervisor can’t order you to take a mask off. Gloves also are permitted.
Inform the MTA of Travel Plans. The MTA is directing workers to inform their supervisor/manager of any domestic and international travel plans because some have higher exposure risks.
Protect yourself/Prevent the spread.
Experts recommend several actions that could help you stay healthy and prevent the virus from spreading:
* Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
* Use alcohol based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are not available.
* If you have flu-like symptoms, remain at home and contact your doctor.
* Keep your distance when possible. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
Important sources of information:
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC): www.cdc.gov
N.Y. State Department of Health website: www.health.ny.gov
The DOH Coronavirus Hotline (1-888-364-3065). New Yorkers with questions about the virus can speak with public health experts in their preferred language.
NYC Health Department: www1.nyc.gov
The MTA has an MTA COVID-19 Update Center on the Intranet. This is where the MTA posts internal memos from transit executives to workers and supervisors. These include the MTA’s policies and procedures, which can change and be updated.