New Boarding System Rolled Out Across London Bus Network, To Help Protect Drivers

Middle doors only, folks. Photo credit: TfL.

Following a limited trial running last week, TfL has today announced that the new boarding system — using middle doors only — will be in place across the London bus network from Monday, till further notice.

While these measures are in place, passengers won’t be required to tap in when they board the bus, and will be asked not to approach the card reader near the driver’s seat.

This is one in a series of measures taken to protect drivers during the pandemic. Other steps include an enhanced anti-viral cleaning regime across the network, and an extra protective film on the screen separating drivers from passengers.

There are currently more than 20,000 bus staff across London, ensuring critical workers can continue to travel to work as safely as possible.

Sadiq Khan and TfL’s Director of Bus Operations, Claire Mann, have both reiterated in their statements that the best way to protect the safety of both bus workers and NHS staff travelling by bus during this time is for all other Londoners to stay home; the public transport network is in operation for key workers only.

UK, Londonist