First introduces 'invisible shield coronavirus killer' on all its buses

The firm is treating all its vehicles with a new ‘viricidal’ sanitiser, ‘Zoono Z71’ which bosses say will ensure continuous protection across its bus fleet.

The company says its use will enhance cleaning procedures as customer numbers increase as coronavirus restrictions are eased.

The latest move follows an app update allowing customers to monitor bus seat capacity and introduction of clear, onboard social distancing signage

A spokesman said: “This week, First South Yorkshire is rolling out a new, long-lasting sanitising treatment across its entire operational fleet, which kills coronavirus on surfaces.

“The treatment is effective for 28 days. It is environmentally-friendly, uses no alcohol or dangerous chemicals, and is scientifically proven to be highly effective against Covid-19. It is the latest addition to our already enhanced cleaning regime and safety procedures, making travel on networks safe for customers and drivers.”

Buses and depots will now be treated every 28 days with this “invisible shield”, which attracts and kills organisms. This latest cleaning enhancement is in addition to the daily disinfection of all driver and customer touchpoints onboard.

This follows recent measures taken to reduce the capacity of each bus by over 75%, with clear seat markings in place to guide customers where to sit, and the launch of innovative functionality added to First’s mobile App; allowing customers to not only live track the location of their next bus, but also to see how many seats are available on it.