Chatham Area Transit's H1N1 Line Of Defense

(Savannah) Public Transportation connects a lot of people. Many depend on Chatham Area Transit every day. With concern about H1N1, the agency is taking steps to prevent illness. "They've been passing out hand sanitizer to each operator so that they can have it for their own personal use when they get on the bus," says C.O. Johnson. "We've intensified cleaning within the facilities and on our rolling fleet. So there will be better cleaning of buses and with disinfectant to make sure we minimize impact of the virus," says Executive Director Charles Odimgbe. Health Officials say the virus can stay active for two to four hours on most surfaces, and in some cases, it may stay active longer. CAT's line of defense is aimed at employees first because of their close interaction with passengers. "Handling transfers. They've even gotten to the point of requesting gloves." "People may get on the bus, and while you have the air blowing it actually has flow of germs, might be flying in the air when people cough and don't cover their mouth," says Johnson. CAT’'s combat kit is still being filled.
"We are in the process of purchasing 3 weeks' worth of hand sanitizer, 3 weeks' worth of face masks." Odimgbe says this situation is a delicate balance. He doesn't want to create panic, but it's important to create safety and protection for his employees." "If something happens there's going to be a lot of reliance on this agency to support whatever effort the local authorities are making. So keeping my drivers safe is really profound on my mind," says Odimgbe. Educational flyers will soon be posted on all cat buses to remind riders about H1N1. Of course there are some simple common sense things you can do to protect yourself. Keep those trial size packs of wipes and sanitizer handy. Don't forget to use them after touching railings or doors, and seats.