Over 900 private service vehicle (PSV) operators have been sensitised on how to keep their vehicles safe and clean amid a 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.
Ms. King also noted that a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list of recommended chemicals for use in cleaning non-emergency vehicles is provided.
In addition, during the training individuals are apprised of Barbados’ current entry and safety protocols. 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, the Barbados Hotel Tourism Association and its members, and the Ministry of Health and Wellness, including polyclinics.
This is according to BTMI’s Manager, Product Development – Innovation and Strategy, Terry Vanterpool-Fox, who also pointed out that the list can be found on www.barbadostravelprotocols.com.
The site also has a listing of approved quarantine accommodations and vacation rentals, as well as the latest COVID-19 protocols for Barbados. Also, persons can find private labs and businesses on the island, and Barbados’ overseas partners who provide COVID-19 testing.
Transport operator, Shenaz Mofford, who participated in one of the sessions noted that the information learnt has become part of her daily lifestyle. “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,” she said.