Covid-19: How to stay safer on mass transit

In cities across the country, ridership on public transportation has dropped precipitously as people have stayed home to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus. But for some, continuing to take mass transit was never optional. Many essential workers who cannot work remotely or don’t drive have continued to ride buses, trains and ferries. Here are some ways through which you can stay safe while commuting amid pandemic.

If you plan to go somewhere, evaluate which means of transportation poses the least risk to yourself and others. You could get to the ferry dock early, for instance, to ensure that you get a seat on the upper deck in the open air; even inside, there’s probably ample air circulation and space to spread out. If you’re riding the bus, try to sit near a window, and keep it open. Credit: Reuters

Don’t leave home without a bottle of hand sanitizer that’s at least 60% alcohol and disinfectant wipes to clean your phone, which is a germ magnet. And anytime you’re in close quarters with other people, wear your mask, Don't pack more than necessary. Credit: AFP

Regardless of whether your local transit network makes such data available, you can attempt to avoid typically crowded times. Find out if your employer will allow for more flexible hours so you can circumvent, and not contribute to, the rush-hour crush. Continue to work remotely if you can to reduce crowding for essential workers and others who are obligated to commute. And if you’re planning to take public transit to run errands or socialize, or for any other nonwork-related purpose, travel during off-peak hours. Credit: Reuters

Keep your hands off the subway poles and rails to the ferry deck or onto the bus. Don’t touch the turnstile as you move through it; stay away from touch screens, keypads and elevator buttons. Make contactless payments if offered, and skip the paper tickets. Wash your hands before departing on your journey and again upon reaching your destination, in addition to sanitizing frequently throughout. Credit: AFP

Take note of the decals on the floor and signs you may see shepherding you through the station, to reduce the number of people crossing paths and decrease crowding. Credit: AFP

If you’re boarding the bus, enter from the rear, to avoid shedding respiratory droplets on the driver and other passengers. Credit: AFP

Don’t eat onboard, as eating can carry particles from a surface to your face. Credit: AFP

Avoid extensive conversations, too; talking, and singing, sprays aerosolized droplets that can carry virus particles. Credit: AFP