MTA About-Face on Wearing Masks

March 9, 2020 --  The MTA has agreed to Local 100’s demand that transit workers be allowed to wear masks during the coronavirus crisis. The MTA issued a memo stating the about-face on Sunday, March 8.

“We said from the beginning that transit workers have the right to wear masks for their safety or comfort, and now the MTA agrees,” Utano said. “We’re glad they listened and we will continue pressing other issues, including our objection to the continued use of the Kronos system.”

The authority initially told workers in statements to the press and bulletins that they were not allowed to wear masks. MTA Chief Safety Officer Pat Warren cited “medical guidance” indicating they weren’t effective, and pointed out they aren’t part of the official TA uniform.

As reported by CNN, Local 100’s elected leadership protested management’s position throughout last week in correspondence and meetings about the health crisis. The two sides held a meeting Thursday, March 5th during which Local 100 pressed for more frequent and regular cleaning of worker facilities, Train Operator and Conductor cabs, Bus Operator compartments and other locations. Another meeting is scheduled for this afternoon, Monday, March 9th.