How to Stay Safe from COVID-19 While on the Go

Posted by Singapore Train on November 24th, 2020

Singapore entered Phase 2 of reopening amid the COVID-19 pandemic on June 19, 2010. The public transport ridership had dropped drastically during the circuit breaker period. But as retail businesses, offices, parks, restaurants, and sports and health facilities begin to reopen after the implementation of Phase 2, the demand for public transport systems slowly started to increase. Transport operators like SMRT Corporation have taken significant measures to gain Singaporeans' confidence in mass transportation modes.

SMRT Corporation, a leading public transport services provider in Singapore, has increased their cleaning efforts and cleaning staff for their trains, buses, premises, and vehicles. SMRT's staff is frequently disinfecting all high-touch points in trains and buses that commuters often come into contact with to provide reliable, comfortable, and safe journeys. Under the guidance of SMRT Chairman, Seah Moon Ming, and SMRT CEO, Neo Kian Hong, SMRT premises (stations and bus interchanges) have received the SG Clean quality mark.

The operator has also installed hand sanitisers in stations, platforms, and bus interchanges. It is mandatory for commuters to wear face masks before boarding SMRT trains or buses. Apart from these efforts, SMRT partnered with Temasek Foundation, HOPE Technik, and Sheares Healthcare to deploy special COVID-19 buses. Mr. Seah Moon Ming, SMRT Chairman, said: “We stand united and do our part during the COVID-19 pandemic,” in support of Temasek Foundation’s “Stay Prepared” initiative.

Public transport companies have implemented a series of measures to reduce the risk of infection; however, as a responsible citizen of Singapore and to ensure your own safety, you must follow these tips while using mass transport systems.

1. Mask up

Wearing a face mask to cover nose and mouth is the most effective to slow down the spread of coronavirus infection. Coronavirus enters the body of a healthy person when an infected person releases micro-droplets while breathing, sneezing, or coughing. Wear medical masks or surgical masks to prevent these droplets from entering your body and reducing spread. Do not take your mask on and off or tough your mask with contaminated hands.

2. Sanitise Hands Frequently

Always carry a hand sanitiser containing at least 60 percent alcohol with you. When you are travelling on a train or bus, may not be able to wash your hands frequently. If you don't have a sanitiser with you, use sanitisers installed at Singaporeans stations and bus interchanges. When you reach your office or home, disinfect your personal belongings, such as your phone and wallet.

3. Maintain Safe Distances

Stay at home if you are telecommuting or don't have any important work to finish. If you need to travel to your office or desired location, choose off-peak hours to avoid crowds. Try to maintain a safe distance while waiting for your train or bus. You should follow social distancing markers and refrain from talking with others or on the phone when you're in public places.

4. Practise Good Hygiene

Do not travel if you're sick. Wash your hands frequently when you reach home or office using soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Do not touch your face when you're outside or travelling. Wear your mask at all times and cover your coughs and sneezes.

Conclusion

COVID-19 is likely to stay here for months to come, so following these tips can help you prevent the spread of coronavirus infections while on the go. Always wear your mask, sanitise hands frequently, follow social distancing rules, and maintain good hygiene to keep yourself and the community healthy.

About the Author

Lim Chong

Lim is a professor in a university in Singapore. When he is not teaching students, he likes to write about Singapore's health system, public transport systems, education, and lifestyle. He loves to read books and enjoys listening to music.