Some workers at the Amtrak maintenance facility in Bear are worried that the may contract COVID-19 while at work after learning that a coworker has reportedly tested positive for the disease.
Several people that are familiar with the situation tell First State Update that employees at the Amtrak Mechanical Services facility, located at 258 Scotland Drive. said they were told Thursday morning that an employee tested positive.
Amtrak released the following statement:
“Amtrak values the health and safety of our employees and passengers. Our medical, public health and emergency management teams across our network are working closely with the local health departments following any known employee who has symptoms or tests positive for the coronavirus.
To demonstrate our commitment to the health and well-being of our employees and customers, an affected employee will be away from the job for two weeks to recover and avoid exposing others, or longer if recommended by the employees’ healthcare provider. In addition to our comprehensive medical and mental health offerings, we have expanded our leave benefits to protect employee pay for 14 days so affected team members can focus on their health.
The work at our Bear shops is essential to maintain the flow of parts and equipment to the entire Amtrak network. Cleaning and disinfecting procedures have been escalated to effectively sanitize this facility and equipment for the safety of our employees.”
Wednesday in a statement, Amtrak said some states are currently limiting travel between state lines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has urged residents of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut to refrain from non-essential travel for 14 days. Amtrak service continues to operate on the Northeast Corridor to provide vital transportation for essential employees. Customers should check with each state for specific guidance. While Amtrak continues to operate, we have temporarily suspended the following services due to reduced demand. See details on service impacts.
The statement also said that Amtrak is taking extra steps to sanitize stations and trains, including taking the following measures:
Enhancing cleaning protocols: We have increased the frequency of cleaning services onboard trains and at our stations.
Increasing disinfectant supplies: We have increased the quantity of sanitizers and disinfectant wipes available for customers and employees onboard trains and at our stations.
Reinforcing good hygiene practices: We are regularly sharing best practices with employees and customers on ways to protect against communicable diseases.
Limiting bookings: To help maintain CDC recommendations for social distancing onboard our trains, we are temporarily reducing coach class and business class sales to 50% capacity.
Going cashless: As an added measure to ensure the health and safety of our customers and employees, we will temporarily be accepting cashless payments only in stations and on trains.
Service will be restored on select trains and routes once circumstances improve and demand returns. We will continue to monitor and make changes to our procedures, policies and operations as necessary and are updating this page regularly with any changes. For more information about the coronavirus, visit the CDC.