The Managing Director of the State Transport Company (STC) has spelt out the safety measures put in place by management to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Nana Akomea said passengers are made to wash their hands, get their temperature checked before they purchase tickets and are given nose masks if they do not have one.

“The drivers have hand sanitisers and have been adequately briefed on protocols regarding protection against coronavirus," he said on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Friday.

Mr Akomea stated that the number of passengers on the buses has been reduced in line with the president's directive on social distancing.

His comments follow concerns from the public on the poor implementation of social distancing and safety protocols in commercial vehicles.

This concern stems from the impact the directive is having on transport companies having to cut down on the number of passengers.

Although Mr Akomea admitted that it is taking a toll on STC's budget, he said they will engage government for a solution as the pandemic rages on.

He said passengers who record an abnormal temperature are not allowed to board the vehicle and embark on the journey and are redirected to the doctor on duty.

“We actually have an in-house clinic at STC with fully qualified staff; a doctor and auxiliary medical staff. They engage drivers and staff generally, particularly during this coronavirus period. They actually have one isolation room at the set up” Nana said.

 The transport company with about 250 drivers, provides them with gloves, sanitisers and masks Mr Akomea says “are standard”.

The Managing Director admitted that the company buys its Personal Protective Equipments (PPEs) for the use of its passengers and drivers.

However, he noted that they have appealed to the Ministry of Health for assistance.