New COVID Measures

After the Government decided to reimpose certain measures during this week, we’ve now had clarification from TfNSW about a few things and can update you on others.

1. Green dot seating only will be put back in place. No standing passengers on buses but remember it’s not up to you to police it. LRV’s will have green dots on the floors.
2. Additional COVID tram & bus services that have been operating will stay.
3. Masks are now mandatory in ALL WORKPLACES IN THE GREATER SYDNEY AREA, INDOORS AND OUT, as well as on public transport. This means wearing masks in depots.
4. Police will not be issuing warnings, they will be issuing fines to people not complying.
5. Special Leave will be coming back for government employees only. Private sector employees will be expected to use Annual Leave in the first instance.
6. Exemptions for mask wearing are the same as they were during the last outbreak and include eating and drinking. Members who have exemptions for medical reasons should have a copy of that paperwork on their persons in case they are challenged by police.
7. The Union is seeking to have smoking/vaping listed as an exemption in the Public Health Order. A full list of exemptions can be found here.
8. You are all essential workers (Passenger transport) and exempt from travel restrictions for the purpose of work, even if you live or work in one of the Local Government Areas that are listed as hotspots.
9. The RTBU continues to push for Transport Workers to be included on the priority list for vaccinations as we have been for months. Hopefully this outbreak gives that argument some mileage.
10. At this stage all services will continue and no reduction to timetables has been flagged. As we did when the previous outbreak started and TfNSW flagged a Sunday timetable for all buses, we will continue to fight to ensure that there is no reduction in available work for members.

Members who for health reasons are eligible for priority vaccination are encouraged to make an appointment. Vaccinated employees with health risks are considered safe to attend work. Employees not yet vaccinated who have health issues should approach their staff supervisors or line managers to discuss what option are available.

Unlike the first outbreak where the RTBU distributed masks to members while the government was busy trying to convince everyone that masks were of no use, common sense has since prevailed. The government has been stockpiling PPE and masks and hand sanitiser is in good supply for all operators.

Given the differences between the original COVID-19 and Delta strains, we need to be extra careful about how we protect ourselves. Washing your hands properly and often remains one of the best defences.