As the Central Government has announced unlock 4, many Indians are being asked to return to work. To reduce their employee’s chances of getting and spreading COVID-19, many organizations have instituted safety policies, but there is a chance of getting infected with the COVID while commuting. So what you should a commuter do?
Here are the ways on how to stay as safe as possible while travelling to and from work.
Subways, Trains and Buses
Metros, subways and trains will be fully operational during Unlock 4. As you prepare yourself in taking public transport, you must reduce the fear inside of you because a subway or a train may be safer than you think. According to research, roughly 1 percent of all clusters of Covid-19 cases were linked to commuter trains.
First of all, follow the public health guidance that restricts the number of people allowed on a bus or train car at any given time. This will ensure that there is six feet of personal space. Before travelling or hopping on to any public transport, please take a peek inside it. If it is crowded or people aren’t wearing masks, don’t get on. It is better to wait for the next one.
If there is a window nearby, roll it open. The fresh air circulating inside the bus can help reduce the coronavirus. This will entail that the atmosphere on the bus is always fresh. But even with the fresh air circulating, it is imperative that you wear a mask, keep distance between you and other people, and be sure your hands are very clean.
Wear a comfortable mask at all times
The virus spreads by droplets from the mouth and nose of one person to the mouth or nose of another, and that’s why there is a strict public guideline of wearing a mask. The mask reduces droplet transmission from one person, and it protects the next person who’s wearing a mask. You should wear a mask that fits your face properly, and covers your mouth and nose adequately. Do not touch or fiddle with your mask. And while adjusting it, clean your hand before and after.
Maintain personal space
While waiting for public transport, maintain at least six feet of distance between yourself and anyone else. Maintain physical distancing at all times. Give people who aren’t wearing mask altogether a wide berth.
Practice good hand hygiene
You can catch coronavirus while touching a subway or bus pole and other objects that may be contaminated with the virus. Use soap or sanitizer to clean your hands before touching your face, if you have touched the seat or any other surface in the car or train. Always carry your own sanitizer with you.
Even if you are using gloves while travelling, coronavirus can still make way to your face because gloves may trick you in providing a false sense of security. Hence, it is better to wash hands regularly or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer rather than wear gloves.
Travel during off-peak hours if possible
If you have to travel to your workplace, then do so during off-peak hours. You can have the information about the peak hours from a local transport enquiry section. If you have a flexible schedule, it is better to avoid crowds and stay safer. Shift your office hours accordingly and either reach office early/late and leave early/late to avoid crowds.
Bike Riding or Walking
Even if you are bike riding and walking to work, it’s important to follow all those health guidelines. You could still catch coronavirus outdoors if you are not following safety precautions. If you are outside, wear a mask and maintain physical distancing.
Wearing a mask might feel constrained or uncomfortable in this sweltering heat, but it is important to keep safe.