CDC Mask Update (February 2021) –
The Center for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) has issued an order that requires face masks to be worn by all travelers while on public transportation (which includes all passengers and all personnel operating conveyances). People must wear masks that completely cover both the mouth and nose while awaiting, boarding, disembarking, or traveling on airplanes, ships, ferries, trains, subways, buses, taxis, and ride-shares. People must also wear masks while at transportation hubs (e.g., airports, bus or ferry terminals, train and subway stations, seaports) and other locations where people board public transportation in the United States and U.S. territories. The CDC also encourages maintaining 6 feet of distance between other passengers when possible.
View this announcement on the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/face-masks-public-transportation.html
For those who have received orders to return to their place of work in the coming weeks, no need to stress! We made a guide on everything you can expect on your first commute back to work.
Metro-
Effective May 18th, Metro announced that face masks are required for all trains, buses and within stations. So, make sure that if you choose Metro as your mode of transit, you remember to bring your face mask. Don’t have one? Don’t worry, you can make some at home!
Try to avoid touching commonly touched areas such as door handles, buttons and railings. If you do touch anything, remember to thoroughly wash your hands afterwards. A good hand wash should last as long as it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice. Refrain from touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Image Source: WHO
Use social distancing to keep yourself properly spaced out from other passengers while in the train or bus.
VRE/Amtrak-
The VRE has not required the use of face masks however they strongly encourage the use of them.
Amtrak requires all persons on Amtrak trains or inside Amtrak facilities and stations to wear a face covering. This policy applies to:
- Amtrak trains designated as VRE Step Up trains
- Washington Union Station
- Alexandria station
Social distancing while riding in the train car is heavily encouraged. Make sure you pick a seat spaced six feet or more from other riders.
Image Source: VRE
Vanpools & Carpools-
Dependent on the operator, face masks and gloves may be required while riding in the vehicle. Make sure to reach out to the operator of the van or other riders to see what the expectations are beforehand. To be on the safe side, bring along your cloth face mask and gloves as a general precaution.
Sit in the back in the vehicle to ensure the driver has proper distance.
The CDC recommends against the use of recirculated air while riding in a shared vehicle, so make sure to utilize the vent’s fresh air option or roll down the windows to let fresh air in.
Avoid touching common surfaces like seatbelt buckles, door handles and steering wheels (if you are the driver) without properly sanitizing the area with a disinfectant spray or wipe. Follow up with regular hand washing.
As always during this time, stay home if you feel sick. Monitor any symptoms and take necessary precautions to keep away from others. Remain safe and enjoy your ride!
By Natalie Beyer