HandyDART driver tests positive for COVID-19

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — A HandyDART driver working in Richmond has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, according to TransLink.

As well, the union representing HandyDART employees confirms that an office in Cloverdale has been deep-cleaned after a member called in sick with “flu-like symptoms.”

Mark Beeching, president of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1724, says the two instances are related in that the driver lives in the same household as the office worker.

Beeching also said TransLink is trying to get protective gear for drivers, but supplies are limited.

“All of the personal protective equipment, management has been trying to get and unable to get because we haven’t been prioritized as the health people have,” he added.

Getting some additional information on this:
— The Richmond HandyDART driver who tested positive for #COVID19 lives in the same household as the Cloverdale HandyDART office worker (not driver) with a suspected case.
— The Richmond driver worked his last shift March 23rd. https://t.co/4etvXgyQ97

— Martin MacMahon (@martinmacmahon) April 3, 2020

Given many seniors and other physically vulnerable people use HandyDART services, Beeching says efforts are being made to get people to needed medical appointments.

“We do believe we are essential to the well being of people with disabilities and seniors, and being able to get out is, actually, important for their survival.”