SMART takes all threats to members and the general public seriously and stands ready to assist those in our communities when dealing with the coronavirus outbreak.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Canadian Public Health Agency (PHA) have been responding to the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19), and have confirmed that the virus has infected a growing group of people in North America.
SMART members, including those working on job sites, production shops, bus and transit operators along with those work on the freight railroads, interact with the public on a daily basis and are at a heightened risk of contracting communicable diseases.
This requires that each member be vigilant, be prepared and come together.
COVID-19 symptoms are like those of influenza (Examples include fever, cough and shortness of breath), and the current outbreak is occurring during a season when respiratory illnesses from influenza and other viruses exist. Symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after initial exposure. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), that people who are most at risk for hospitalization/ severe symptoms are either people over age 65 with weakened immune systems due to age, or those who have underlying chronic diseases such as COPD and hypertension.
SMART is monitoring the situation and will continue to communicate with members as developments progress.
Visit the SMART Emergency Legislative Alert page for updates on the impact of the legislative and regulatory response to the COVID-19 crisis on members as well as links to available government resources.
TD members: Report COVID-19 protocols not being followed
Transportation Division President Jeremy Ferguson’s statement to members regarding COVID-19.
Here are resources that can be of use:
This website provides information, guidance and links to additional resources including What You Should Know, Situation Updates and other Information. This website also has the CDC response, latest news and more. The CDC will continue to provide updated information as it becomes available, in addition to updated guidance.
CDC Resources for Managing Anxiety and Stress The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children.
Downloadable Health and Safety Fact Sheet and Safety Manual from SMOHIT The Sheet Metal Occupational Health Institute Trust (SMOHIT) along with the International Training Institute (ITI) and National Energy Management Institute Committee (NEMIC), the three funds have created a one-sheet with guidelines for the construction industry. This also includes a complete manual with the most current information on protecting your health, as well as the health of your coworkers and family, while working in the sheet metal industry.
For TD members and retirees:
- Spring pre-retirement seminars canceled by RRB
- State Legislative Boards directed to cancel meetings, hold mail elections
- SMART-TD leaders urge action from FMCSA administrator
- Railroad Retirement Board field offices are closed until further notice.
- Social Security offices closed to public
- TD Locals may cancel March and April meetings
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