COVID-19: Tests every two weeks for Abu Dhabi school bus drivers

As more than 300,000 students head back to classes this week, bus drivers are gearing up for the new term.

The Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi through Integrated Transport Centre in Abu Dhabi has announced new safety guidelines at the start of the academic year.

Bus drivers and supervisors will be tested for COVID-19 every two weeks.

The fleet will be increased and equipped with thermometers, hand sanitizer, face masks and gloves.

Every student will have their temperature checked before boarding, while drivers will have daily checks and must report any virus symptoms to their managers.

In addition, training will be provided in awareness programmes and physical distancing will be strictly enforced, with capacity limited to 50 per cent. 

Signs will be placed on seats to keep them vacant and students will have to sit two metres apart.

Windows will be opened for ventilation after every journey and buses must be sterilised regularly.

The Department of Municipalities and Transport says the measures will contribute to the safety of passengers, their families and transport staff.

.@AbuDhabiDMT through @ITCAbuDhabi announces precautionary measures to be followed by the school transportation sector, as well as students, guardians and parents for the new academic year, to protect students’ health and safety. pic.twitter.com/xuslH2lq4E

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) August 29, 2020