Board approves purchase of protective shields for the Cherriots fleet
During this pandemic, Cherriots is committed to integrating best practices to keep employees and riders safe and well.
Following guidance released by the Governor’s office, through the Oregon Health Authority, along with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the District has developed a plan to ensure physical distancing on vehicles and transit properties.
One major way that the transit industry is responding to ensuring driver safety is through the installation of protective barriers (shields) that safeguard the driver, both from COVID-19 exposure and potential assaults.
Consideration was given to barriers that offer the most room in the driver area, the best visibility, ease of use, and flexibility of installation in different types of buses.
Of the three different barriers researched, the one produced by Thermoguard offered a solution that met all requirements. The Thermoguard barrier, which is 100 percent clear poly carbonite, was the only one that allows either the driver area or the front of the bus to be secured. This option has an angled panel for more room, greater visibility because it is clear, and has a protective film that can be removed when scratched. When open, it attaches magnetically to the stanchion opening of the driver area, closing off the rider area. The cost per bus is $1,851, which includes shipping and installation.
This past week, the Board of Directors approved funding to purchase the Thermoguard barriers for the fleet. Installation is scheduled to be completed by mid-July. We're excited to add this extra layer of protection for our drivers, who have been serving everyone so well on the front lines.