TTC subway operator tests positive for COVID-19, union says

A Toronto subway operator has tested positive for COVID-19, the union that represents TTC workers says.

Amalgamated Transit Union Local 113 said in a news release on Tuesday that the subway operator, who works out ofitsWilson Division,has not been at work since early March 16.

The union said the operatorleft work feeling unwell shortly after his shift began on Monday at 5:30 a.m. The operator has been at home since that timeand receivedthe positive test resulton Tuesday, the union said.

According to the TTC, the operator worked part of a shift on Line 1. The transit agency said it has begun to identifya small number of employees with whom the operator had "casual contact" on March 16. It said the workerswill be advised to monitor themselvesfor symptoms.

"Although this is an evolving situation, we do know that he worked part of a shift on Line 1 on March 16 before reporting feeling unwell and booking off sick. He has not been at work since," the TTC said in a statement on Tuesday.

"At this time, Toronto Public Health has advised that there is no increased risk to other employees or customers."

The TTC added that subway operatorswork in cabs that are separatedfrom the public, and cleaned and disinfected daily. Operators have also beenprovided with disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer since the COVID-19 outbreak began, it added.

The transit agency has been working with Toronto Public Health on next steps and has consulted withATU Local 113 and employee representatives on itsjoint health and safety committee about the situation.

"The operator is currently resting at home and we wish him a full and speedy recovery," the TTC said.

Subway operator is doing well, union says

According to the union, ATU Local 113 President Carlos Santos spoke tooperator on the phone and heis doing well.

The union said it is alsoworking with the TTC and Toronto Public Health to determine what it should do nexttoprotect riders and other workers. How the subway worker became infected with the virus remains under investigation, but the union said it wanted to update its members "as soon as possible."

"As we provide a critical service for our city during this pandemic, including for health care workers, ATU Local 113 continues to push the TTC and Toronto Public Health to do whatever is necessary to ensure a safe and healthy environment for TTC workers and riders," the release said.

ATU Local 113 said it secured a number of protections for its members, including:

• The choice to wear face masks.
• Mandatory rear-door boarding on TTC buses.
• No cash, youth or senior tickets or tokens as payment on buses.
• The option for fare collectors and customer service agents to remain in booths while on the job.
• Additional cleaning in work areas.
• Full pay for self-isolation and quarantines.
• No medical notes for sick leave up and including March 31.

"We understand this is a very challenging time for all and many of you are worried about health protection," it added.