Metrolinx has learned that a front-line staff member working out of Hamilton GO Station has tested positive for COVID-19. The staff member was last at work on Oct. 18, and appears to have contracted the virus from outside the work location.

The employee is now recovering at home and we all wish them a speedy recovery.

Any Metrolinx staff that had direct contact with their colleague have been notified and are seeking guidance from health care professionals and self-isolating as a precaution. Like all staff, the employee wore a mask and gloves during their shifts and kept a safe distance from other staff and customers while working.

The transit agency is advising the public out of an abundance of caution to address any questions or concerns immediately.

Out of a workforce of approximately 4,300 staff, this is the 17th Metrolinx employee who has tested positive for COVID-19.

As a reminder, it is mandatory for all Metrolinx employees and customers to wear face coverings while on transit or in stations to protect those around them.  This along with over 40 other safety actions has helped prevent outbreaks on our system and in work locations. See more about all the safety actions Metrolinx has implemented to help stop the spread.

All staff and customers are asked to remember the basics from public health:

• Stay home and off transit if you are ill
• Wear your face covering and ensure you keep both your nose and mouth covered (we’ve got great new, popular branded masks)
• Wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitizer found on buses, trains and in stations when you can’t
• Download the COVID Alert App which has already helped some of our staff receive early notifications of exposures and potentially limit the spread. The app has been pushed out to all Metrolinx phones.