Government issues coronavirus guidance for staff in the transport sector

The Department for Transport  (DfT) and Public Health England (PHE) have posted COVID-19 advice for those working in the transport sector.

Transport sector guidance:

• If someone becomes unwell while at a transport hub or on their journey with a new, continuous cough or a high temperature, they should be sent home
• Passengers should wash their hands for 20 seconds before and after they have been on public transport and catch coughs and sneezes in tissues
• Frequently clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that are touched regularly, using your standard cleaning products
• Advise passengers they should not travel if they are feeling unwell with symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) - a new, continuous cough or high temperature. This will also help to protect others from infection
• Use announcements in transport hubs to reinforce key messages, such as washing hands before and after travel, and what to do if unwell

What to do if someone develops symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) in a transport setting

If anyone becomes unwell with the symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) in a transport setting they should be sent home and advised to follow the stay at home guidance.

If they need clinical advice, they should go online to NHS 111 (or call 111 if they don’t have internet access). In an emergency, call 999 if they are seriously ill or injured or their life is at risk. Do not visit the GP, pharmacy, urgent care centre or a hospital.

If a member of staff or a passenger has helped someone who was taken unwell with symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), they do not need to go home unless they develop symptoms themselves. They should wash their hands thoroughly for 20 seconds after any contact with someone who is unwell.

It is not necessary to close the transport setting or send any staff home unless government policy changes. Keep monitoring the website for the latest details.

Public Health England (PHE) has also produced a free information poster for those in the transport industry to use if to put up at hubs across the UK.