San Joaquin RTD installs permanent operator barriers across entire fleet

Permanent barriers are being installed across the San Joaquin Regional Transit District’s (RTD) entire bus fleet, further enhancing bus operator safety.

The permanent barriers will replace the temporary vinyl shields installed in 2020 as a precautionary safety response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

San Joaquin RTD began installing the Vapor vShield barriers on 50 of its Metro buses beginning September 2021. The Vapor vShield offers a protective barrier for operators while promoting maximum comfort inside the cockpit. Duel operated fans with varying speed promotes air circulation and comfort for the operators, while laminated anti-glare AS2 rated safety glass offers protection and visibility of side mirrors. A retractable portion of the window can be partially or fully opened during normal operation. In the event that an operator feels unsafe, a push of the button will fully close the window.

“These barriers support RTD’s safety core value—to create a safe and responsible environment for our employees, our customers and our community,” said Maintenance Superintendent Brad Menil. “With a retractable shield, the transparent barrier still allows for customer interaction while offering a physical barrier of protection in the event that the operators would need it.”

Different but comparable permanent barriers will also be installed in the rest of the buses to make the entire fleet equipped with protective barriers.

“Safety is a top priority at RTD and this is a significant accomplishment,” said San Joaquin RTD Board Chair Michael Restuccia. “I am proud of the way RTD continues to implement enhancements that take care of both our frontline employees and passengers.”