SEPTA workers demand safety changes amid COVID-19 pandemic
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A union representing SEPTA employees is calling for changes amid the coronavirus pandemic.
In a video released by Transport Workers Union Local 234, leader Willie Brown is demanding change for members.
"As of Thursday, the 23rd, if SEPTA does not meet our demands we will take a job action," he said.
A union spokesperson stressed this is not a threat to strike, but rather workers feel the transit agency is not being transparent about COVID-19 safety measures.
SEPTA has already put partitions between bus drivers and ordered riders to enter through the back door. Plus, they are asking riders to follow state guidelines to wear masks, however, they can't enforce that. Officials say they have already provided masks and gloves.
Bus operator Kim Baker said she has been pulled off her route to help with sanitizing the buses at the end of the route.
"I don't think that the spray alone is enough to clean buses," she said.
But SEPTA officials say buses and trains are sanitized twice a route and at the end of the day.
Three union members have died and 96 have tested positive for the virus.
The union wants employees tested prior to their shift, workers with underlying health conditions to quarantine and the agency to follow state guidelines.
SEPTA released a statement on Tuesday saying in part, "SEPTA's top priority is the health and safety of our customers and employees. During this unprecedented crisis, we have worked closely with our workforce and union leaders to enhance protections and provide the safest possible environment for essential travel. These are challenging issues, and we are committed to continuing a dialogue with TWU Local 234 and all other unions representing SEPTA employees. With the progress we've made together to date, we would expect SEPTA employees will continue to deliver service that is connecting residents to essential jobs, hospitals, grocery stores and other life-sustaining services."
MORE COVID-19 COVERAGE
CDC chief says there could be second, possibly worse coronavirus outbreak this winter
2 New Jersey COVID-19 patients recovering after experimental plasma treatment
An 'absolute miracle': Tony Luke's son recovers from COVID-19
Gov. Wolf: Less-impacted areas of Pennsylvania may reopen soon
Small businesses sound off after Governor Wolf extends stay at home order to May 8
Small businesses struggling to survive as they wait for COVID-19 funding
Mom meets baby weeks after giving birth via emergency C-section, recovering from COVID-19
MORE RESOURCES
Keeping Reusable Shopping Bags Sanitized and Germ-Free during COVID-19 Outbreak
How to get groceries, supplies, takeout, online workouts and home projects while quarantine
Things for everyone to do to pass the time at home
Great homeschooling and educational resources for parents and students
Free 6abc printable activities for kids to do at home
Work from home: Here are some companies hiring remote workers
CONNECT WITH US
Share your coronavirus story with Action News
Complete coronavirus coverage from Action News
