Coronavirus: Translink rolls out COVID-19 safety measures and asks people not to use buses and trains if they feel sick

A Translink spokesperson said all scheduled bus and train services are currently operating as normal and that the company has taken steps to reduce the risk of coronavirus to its staff and customers.

“We have regular enhanced cleaning regimes in place for our fleet and passenger facilities including keeping surfaces clean and sanitising hand touch areas. Hand sanitisers have also been rolled out across all frontline bus and rail staff.

“Passengers should wash their hands for 20 seconds before and after they have been on public transport where stations are equipped with hand washing facilities in toilets.

“We have amended procedures for staff in relation to contact with customers to ensure the safety of everyone involved. This includes minimising contact between staff and the public for ticket checks and buying tickets.

“To reduce cash handling, we request that passengers, where possible, use prepaid tickets such as m-link or multi-journey tickets and contactless if purchasing at stations, on board the train from the conductor or Glider TVM’s.

“We would strongly urge customers if paying by cash, please tender the exact fare where possible," the spokesperson said.

The public transport firm is asking anyone who feels sick not to use its buses or trains.

“We would advise passengers not to travel if they are feeling unwell with symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) i.e. a new, continuous cough or a high temperature. This will help to protect others from infection.

“We have posters displayed across our network to remind people of the latest PHA advice to prevent the spread of infection.

“The health and safety of our customers, employees and the wider public is paramount, and we will continue to follow all public health instructions as issued by PHA www.pha.site/coronavirus

“For the latest updates please follow us on our social media channels or visit the website," the spokesperson said.