Our response to COVID-19

The ventilation on our buses and SkyTrains allows fresh air to circulate easily through our fleet. Between the multiple air vents, and the doors opening frequently, we’re keeping our customers safe.

Ventilation on Buses

Ventilation on SkyTrains

The Provincial Health Officer has lifted the mask mandate in all indoor public spaces, including on TransLink services, effective 12:01 a.m., March 11, 2022.

While masks are no longer mandatory while onboard bus, SkyTrain, SeaBus, and West Coast Express services, customers are welcome to wear a mask or face covering based on individual level of comfort. Wearing a mask or face covering is a personal choice and we ask you please respect your fellow transit riders who wish to continue using a mask or face covering.

Please note, the mandatory mask policy is still in place for both customers and employees on HandyDART. HandyDART drivers are required to wear masks only when interacting with customers.

We have been closely examining ventilation on our transit system.

• On many of our vehicles there is already considerable air circulation via transit doors repeatedly opening and closing.

• Our vehicles are outfitted with various types of air filtration systems.

• We’re exploring new and emerging technologies to see how we can do even better.

We understand why some customers might want windows opened to allow for more fresh air circulation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, we’ve updated our policy so that customers may open windows to allow for additional fresh air, should the vehicle type and weather be appropriate.

• Not all windows can open and under certain weather conditions it may not be appropriate in consideration of other passengers.

• Frontline employees have the discretion to open or close windows depending on the circumstances.

• HandyDART customers may ask their driver for assistance if they are unable to open the window themselves.

• Customers should always dress for the weather conditions.

We are not aware of any COVID-19 outbreaks occurring on public transit in Metro Vancouver and according to Public Health the risk remains low.

• Masks are required on HandyDART for all customers and employees until further notice. Drivers are required to wear masks only when interacting with customers.

  • For medical reasons, we understand not all HandyDART customers can wear a mask. We ask that everyone demonstrates respect to their fellow transit riders.

• HandyDART vehicles are being cleaned and disinfected every day, with drivers also wiping all touch points between trips.

• HandyDART operators are supplied with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which includes gloves, a mask, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes.

• HandyDART customers are pre-screened for COVID-19 symptoms as part of the booking process and are requested to wear a non-medical face covering or mask while travelling if they are able to.