TriMet is partnering with the University of Washington on a study to detect, monitor and assess the effects of second-hand fentanyl smoke on and around transit systems.
With illicit fentanyl surging—evidenced by Oregon’s 41 percent increase in overdose deaths in 2021—use of it has occasionally spilled over to shared spaces, including public transit.
As of right now, there is little in the way of concrete data about the health effects of second-hand fentanyl smoke or its impacts on a self-contained area, like a bus or train. While there have been studies about the risk of exposure to first responders, this is the first study of its kind to delve into public transit.
No smoking allowed
Smoking is not allowed on TriMet, whether in buses, trains or on rail platforms at transit centers or in elevators. Those caught smoking face a citation or exclusion. Smoking covers everything from tobacco, to electronic cigarettes and vape pens, to any other smoking substance.
In early 2022, TriMet changed the TriMet Code to include non-criminal violations of laws or ordinance as actions prohibited on TriMet.
Airing out vehicles when fumes noted
To help address the issue of second-hand drug smoke before a study could be conducted, TriMet enacted its own process to safeguard riders and operators. In April 2022, operators began to stop trains and buses whenever there was a report of smoking or smoke fumes on board, whether the source is known or unknown and whether it smelled like drug smoke or not. Operators then opened the doors for a period to ventilate the vehicle before it continued in service.
Science-driven approach
Science will drive TriMet’s approach as the agency works in the coming months in partnership with the University of Washington, Sound Transit, other participating transit agencies and the Amalgamated Transit Union, which represents TriMet’s frontline employees. With reports of illicit fentanyl use spiking in communities across the country, the research could set an example for all public transit agencies industry wide.
The new research will partially rely on air samples collected by devices strategically placed on buses and trains. Researchers will also use sampling kits to determine whether the substance smoked was an opioid or something else.
Expanded police missions, more Safety Response Team members
In September, TriMet’s Transit Police Division began expanding its public safety missions to more stations and neighborhoods, following positive feedback from the community, transit riders and TriMet employees.
TriMet also more than doubled the number of staff on the agency’s security teams over the past 15 months, with more growth planned in 2023. TriMet's Customer Safety Supervisors will increase to at least 46 in 2023. TriMet’s contract Transit Security Officers and Customer Security Officers connects people on and around TriMet's transit system with social services, provides first aid and reports serious concerns to emergency responders.
