Drivers and Key Worker Testing ?

[choochoochoo]

Although classed as Key Workers, will drivers be part of the cohort that will be required to test daily for Covid ?

Apart from mess rooms and training environments we do not really pose much risk to other colleagues whilst at work.

As I stated on other threads, I believe drivers would be better served by distancing in common areas, with measures as on-call from home.

If they are to be expected to test, it will be interesting to see how that will all be coordinated/enforced.

 

[Mojo]

The announcement today is not a “requirement” to test, but an option for companies and individuals involved.

 

[dk1]

No plans to test train drivers from what I’m hearing.

 

[Class 170101]

No doubt that will require an extra allowance in diagrams

 

[dk1]

No doubt that will require an extra allowance in diagrams

No need when we did it as instructors & trainees. It’s just added in a similar way as off-roster payments.

 

[Flange Squeal]

I'd imagine, in terms of transport, this may apply more to office-based or 'indoor' roles. Perhaps signallers in large boxes/centres, control rooms, etc?

 

[142blue]

Tell our government to supply tests first

 

[P Binnersley]

100,000 people isn't many - abut 1% of key workers
(or 1.5% of non healthcare key workers).

In 2019, 10.6 million of those employed (33% of the total workforce) were in key worker occupations and industries.

Coronavirus and key workers in the UK - Office for National Statistics

Estimates of the numbers and characteristics of those who could be considered as potential “key workers” in the response to the coronavirus (COVID-19).

www.ons.gov.uk

 

[Gemz91]

I would have thought train guards and platform staff would be higher priority for testing, at least drivers are shut away cabs for 90%+ of their shifts, whilst guards, revenue staff and station staff are more face to face in their roles so more likely to pass it on to passengers. Our TOC has plenty of lateral flow tests, but not sure if this is whats going to be used?

Unless I'm missing the point here?

 

[Crossover]

I thought the "key worker" terminology had been buried some time ago?!

 

[LowLevel]

I thought the "key worker" terminology had been buried some time ago?!

Nah, just the media soundbites of some lemon in a supermarket or railway uniform (in the interest of fairness!) talking into the camera about a subject they know nothing about whilst using the phrase "as a keyworker, I think..." (has to be one word - "keyworker") have gone out of fashion

 

[Signal_Box]

Key workers of which were defined may be required or advised to test daily - I for one will not be testing that is for sure.