In the past week, five additional Metrolinx employees and one Bombardier contract employee have tested positive for COVID-19.

In four of the cases, the affected staff members were either working from home or had not been at work since the end of November; therefore in those cases, no other staff nor customers were potentially exposed.

The fifth case involved a bus driver who was last worked on December 3. Metrolinx has confirmed that the affected bus driver was wearing their face covering at all times while on duty, was following the guidelines to prevent the spread of infection and only interacted with customers while behind a plexiglass barrier. Through consultation with public health, it was determined the potential for spread and risk to others in this case was extremely low.

In the case involving the Bombardier employee, they did not have a customer facing job, were wearing their face covering at all times and was also following the recommended health and safety guidelines.

None of the most recent staff cases of COVID-19 are connected in any way. Additionally, given the circumstances in each case we are confident that each of the employees contracted the virus from outside of the workplace. 

Out of over 4,300 Metrolinx employees, 41 have now tested positive for COVID-19. To date, there have been no outbreaks on our system as our safety protocols have helped limit – and stay ahead – of the spread of the virus.

However, as the holiday season nears, it is important to not let down our guard. Metrolinx staff have worked hard for many months and with the positive vaccine news on the horizon it is more important than ever to recommit to the basics from public health:

• Stay home and off transit if ill or potentially exposed to COVID-19
• Wear a face covering and ensure both the nose and mouth is covered at all times (Check out the Metrolinx PPE dispensers and branded masks)
• Wash hands regularly and use hand sanitizer found on buses, trains and in stations
• Download the COVID Alert App.
• Make a plan to celebrate the holiday season safely.