15.06.20
Rail passengers reminded of compulsory face coverings from today
From today (June 15th) face coverings have become mandatory on public transport in England.
Network Rail have increased safety measures at major stations the Western route, including London Paddington, Reading and Bristol Temple Meads.
The new rules around face coverings have been introduced to help protect passengers, the public and railway staff.
Passengers are reminded to continue following the Government’s advice around the use of public transport which means only travelling when necessary, and if thy do need to travel, wearing a face covering as instructed by Government.
Avoiding peak times has also been advised where possible, whilst maintaining a two-metre distance from others, and regularly washing and sanitising your hands.
Network Rail staff will have limited supplies of face coverings available to hand out at Paddington, Reading and Bristol Temple Meads to anyone travelling who doesn’t have one.
There will also be vending machines where coverings, hand sanitisers, gloves and anti-bacterial wipes can be bought.
Other measures like one-way systems have been introduced at some stations, floor marking to keep everyone two metres apart, dedicated social distancing staff, hand sanitising stations, spaced seating areas and an enhanced cleaning regime.
Network Rail’s Western director, Mike Gallop, said: “We have been working non-stop to put a huge number of measures in place to keep you safe when you travel through our stations, and face coverings now form a vital part of that.
“You’ll notice our stations will look a bit different, and our staff may have their faces covered, but this is all to make sure your journey run as smoothly and safely as possible. But remember, only travel if you have to.”
London Paddington’s station manager, Mustaq Haji, said: “As well as all the physical changes passengers will notice, we’ve intensified our cleaning regimes and employed more dedicated cleaning staff, with specific COVID 19 response training, to ensure deep cleans can be carried out during the day as well at night.
Robert Nisbet, Director of Nations and Regions at the Rail Delivery Group, said: “Rail companies have been working closely with government to get the country moving with more services, including some longer trains where possible, while encouraging people to travel by train only if they need to and at quieter times as social distancing guidelines mean space is limited.
“Wearing face coverings on trains and at stations will help protect others and ensure those who need to travel can do so safely, which is why we’re reminding people of the rules with posters at stations and announcements by essential workers.”
Images: Network Rail