Travelling by train during the COVID-19 pandemic? Follow these guidelines
By Dr Sandeep Patil, Chief Intensivist, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan
During the COVID19 pandemic, public transport was limited to essential workers; those wanting to commute for other jobs were not permitted to use this service. As lockdowns lifted and workplaces reopened across the city, office goers eagerly waited for train services i.e. Mumbai’s lifeline, to resume service. Soon the general public will be allowed to travel by local trains, albeit at staggered timings, so it’s imperative to understand the measures one can adopt to have a safe journey to and from work.
Traveling on trains for any length of time involves sitting or standing within 6 feet of others, which may increase one’s risk of getting COVID-19. So here are some guidelines that will help you prepare better for train travel:
BEFORE TRAVEL:
(1) Stay updated: Check the train schedule beforehand, this way you can time your travel in the non-peak hours and at a time slot of your preference and convenience.
(2) Get your pass/ ticket in order: If possible, get an e-pass/ e-ticket so you don’t have to wait in serpentine queues to get your travel documents in order. Choose to make contactless reservations and payments
(3) Anticipate your travel needs: Carry a 3-ply face mask, a hand sanitizer, and a few disinfectant wipes with you. Carry a few extra masks in a sealed bag, so you could replace your mask if it gets soiled.
(4) Prepare: Before you leave for work, wash your hands with soap and water and then wear your mask. Once worn, it should not be touched or removed till you arrive at your workplace. Wear gloves before you step out, these will work as a barrier if you end up touching door handles, railings, etc. The gloves can be disposed of appropriately after reaching your workplace – if you don’t have gloves, ensure that you don’t touch your face during the transit and that you wash your hands thoroughly after getting work.
DURING TRAVEL:
(1) Avoid touching surfaces:Avoid touching frequently touched surfaces such as ticket machines, handrails, elevator buttons and benches as much as possible. If you do touch these surfaces, immediately wash your hands with soap and water or use a sanitizer containing 60% alcohol.
(2) Follow social distancing guidelines: Stay at least 6 feet away from other commuters and avoid gathering in groups. Consider skipping a few seats between yourself and other passengers if possible. Follow signs put out by the railways indicating where to stand or sit, where to queue up and the exit signs
(3) Using public bathrooms at the train station: Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the public bathroom
(4) Buying food and water at the train station: Carry your own water bottle and food packets,don’t accept or offer water bottles to other commuters. If you end up buying food or water at the train station, pay contactless or in exact change. Avoid removing your mask to eat and drink during your commute – instead wait till you reach your workplace
(5) Avoid spitting: This is a strict no no
UPON GETTING TO WORK:
(1) Hand hygiene: After completing your trip sanitize your hands, upon reaching your workplace wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
(2) Mask hygiene: Remove the mask you wore during your travel and replace it with a fresh one. The previously worn mask can be placed in a sealed bag to wash or dispose
(3) Avoid crowding in the cafeteria: At work, avoid eating together during lunch time and maintain safe distance in the cafeteria as well
Some types of travel methods can put you at higher risk for exposure to COVID-19, but by taking ample precautions and following hygiene etiquettes, we can ensure a safe commute.
