Enhanced cleaning is taking place on tube trains and buses across London, in a bid to slow the spread of coronavirus.
TfL says that it already cleans its trains, stations and buses professionally every day, but the enhanced measures — introduced on 6 March — mean that an anti-viral fluid usually used in hospitals, is now being employed as part of the cleaning process.
Regularly touched areas, such as poles and doors, says TfL, are being wiped down with a strong disinfectant every day. Key interchanges are being cleaned more regularly (in the day as well as after closing), while train and bus depots and drivers' cabs are also being cleaned with the anti-viral fluid.
TfL will roll out a longer-acting fluid that would provide anti-viral protection for up to 30 days. It says it hopes to have it ready by the end of March.
Lilli Matson, Director of Health, Safety and the Environment at TfL, said:
London's public transport system is one of the cleanest in the world. We want to give Londoners and our staff peace of mind that their safety is our priority, which is why we have enhanced our already rigorous cleaning regime.
Some on Twitter have refuted TfL's claims that its tubes and buses boast 'hygiene' levels, with one user claiming "it is absolute nonsense."
Public Health England says there are currently no specific concerns about using public transport, but passengers are reminded to wash their hand regularly and thoroughly (especially after arriving at their destination and before eating), and to avoid touching their face.
Keep up to date on London's coronavirus situation here.
