Utano: Suspend Kronos

TWU Local 100 President Tony Utano is demanding the MTA suspend use of the Kronos touch-screen system during the coronavirus pandemic.

There’s no reason to require up to hundreds of workers at individual facilities to be touching the same screens on their way in and out of work," Utano said. “This is just common sense; It’s a no-brainer.”

Utano conveyed the Kronos demand to MTA Chief Safety Officer Pat Warren, NYC Transit Labor Relations Vice President Kim Ward and other top officials during meetings and correspondence over the past week. Of course, the MTA so far is resisting appeals to common sense. Another meeting between the elected Local 100 leadership and MTA executives is expected on Monday.

The authority, meanwhile, is distributing to workers a “Frequently Asked Questions” sheet regarding the new virus. One of the questions is, “Should I wear a Mask to work?”  The authority is directing workers not to wear masks, claiming they are not proven to be effective – and are not part of the authorized uniform.

TWU Local 100’s position is clear. You have the right to wear a mask for your safety or peace of mind and will be supported 100% by your union. As President Utano said earlier this week: “Our position – better safe than sorry and we don’t give a damn about dress codes in a medical emergency.”