New bus drivers’ safety measure arrives ahead of schedule
General union Unite has claimed a victory for bus drivers – a high-risk group – after London’s buses were adapted to better protect them.
All the capital’s buses have now been fitted with an air conditioning system, as recommended by the union, that takes air for the vehicle’s driver from outside, rather than the passenger areas.
The installation of the new air conditioning system has been completed ahead of schedule.
Unite lead officer for London buses John Murphy said: “Unite highlighted its concerns about the air conditioning system when the first cases of Covid-19 began to emerge and it was instrumental in ensuring the air conditioning was turned off and a replacement system introduced.
“London bus drivers have continued to work throughout the pandemic and have kept London moving, with too many paying a tragic price, it is incumbent on everyone involved with buses that no stone is left unturned in ensuring their safety.”