More than 900 private service vehicle (PSV) operators have been sensitised on how to sanitise their vehicles amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
The Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 Monitoring Unit, in collaboration with the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), has been hosting sensitisation workshops for transport operators, which are aimed at teaching PSV operators how to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 and maintain a healthy work environment.
COVID-19 Monitoring Officer, Kim King, explained that during the sessions preventative methods are taught, including effective sanitisation techniques. These techniques, such as wiping, cleaning and sanitising high-touch areas like windows, doorknobs and handrails in the vehicles should be practised at the end of each trip.
King said that a Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list of recommended chemicals for use in cleaning non-emergency vehicles is provided. In addition individuals are apprised of Barbados’ current entry and safety protocols.
BTMI’s Manager, Product Development – Innovation and Strategy, Terry Vanterpool-Fox said that upon completion of the training, PSV operators receive a certificate and certification sticker, and their names are added to a list of certified operators, which is shared with airport security, hotels, BTMI and its members, and the Ministry of Health and Wellness.
The list can be found on www.barbadostravelprotocols.com, along with other relevant information relating to COVID-19 and protocols.
Transport operator, Shenaz Mofford, who participated in one of the sessions, said: “I’ve used every aspect of the training in my everyday life. I even teach my kids about the use of gloves . . . and my kids have become a little more attentive to their environment.” (BGIS)