Commuters are being urged to plan ahead and consider travelling outside peak hour to help reduce the spread of novel coronavirus COVID-19.
Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is working with NSW Health and other government agencies, as well as external operators statewide to ensure the safety of customers.
Measures that TfNSW has implemented to help limit the spread of COVID-19 include:
- stringent cleaning regimes
- increased public health messaging at stations and TfNSW offices
- logistics planning around the provision of hand sanitiser across the network
- set up of a dedicated COVID-19 incidents and scenarios taskforce
- staff to validate tickets without contact via Opal and contactless card payment.
Cleaning squads have been deployed across trains, buses, ferries, light rail and the metro, particularly in high-traffic areas including Central, Town Hall and Wynyard.
Customers are being encouraged to use Opal and contactless payments where possible. This will further reduce the chances of community spread and safeguard staff.
Minister for Transport Andrew Constance said customers should stay home and avoid travel altogether if they are unwell.
“Sick people in close proximity to others is causing to the global spread of the virus, so travelling outside of crowded peak hours can help reduce the chances of transmission,” Mr Constance said.
“Practicing good hand hygiene is crucial for staff and customers, particularly after coming in contact with handles, rails, buttons and windows, which people need to use.”
TfNSW is also continuing to provide support for the extensive freight network as it addresses the COVID-19 challenges ahead.