Menu

Topics

Connect

Comments

Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.

Coronavirus: Montreal’s STM says it is disinfecting its surfaces daily, to remain in service

WATCH: Coronavirus around the world: March 13, 2020
Story continues below advertisement
The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) announced on Friday it will boost its disinfecting measures amid concerns of the spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, in Montreal.
The STM said it started cleaning its most used surfaces on metros, metro stations and buses as of Tuesday. This includes poles, straps and handles, handrails, fare vending machines and elevators.
The public transit organization said public health informed them that the virus can live on surfaces for up to three hours.
On Tuesday, Quebec’s public health ministry announced that a person who tested positive for COVID-19 had traveled by public transport between Feb. 24 and March 6 while potentially contagious.
Story continues below advertisement
This person used the metro line between Longueuil and Champ-de-Mars stations, passing through Berri-UQAM station.
READ MORE: Quebec to shutter daycares, schools, post-secondary institutions for 2 weeks due to coronavirus
On Thursday, Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante said the city’s public transit system will stay open and run as usual as it is a vital service for Montreal commuters.
She added that the public should be careful to rigorously wash their hands after using the metro or bus.
Story continues below advertisement
Earlier this week, STM spokesperson Philippe Déry said it was increasing both the frequency and rigour with which all public transit surfaces were cleaned, but said it wouldn’t be done daily, but more than once a week.
The transit authority said it usually cleans its metro cars, stations and buses no more than once a month.
The STM said if clients feel safer not touching handrails, they can do so, but said it is not yet at the point of advising commuters to do that.
Advertisement
Advertisement

You are viewing an Accelerated Mobile Webpage.

View Original Article