TTC selects vending company to install PPE machines in busiest stations
Beginning this week, TTC customers will notice vending machines selling personal protective equipment (PPE) in some subway stations.
While the TTC is giving away one million masks and providing hand sanitizer on streetcars and in subway stations, the machines offer customers a convenient and inexpensive option to purchase items they may need or want to buy while travelling on the system.
"Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been encouraging to see Torontonians taking measures to protect each other through the observance of mask-wearing and other mitigation strategies," said TTC Chair Jaye Robinson. "By providing opportunities to purchase inexpensive PPE in stations, we can do our part to encourage this continued effort on the part of our customers."
A total of 11 machines are being installed by the end of next week and will be located at the following stations:
- 2 at Queen Station
- 1 at Union Station
- 1 at Davisville Station
- 1 at Finch Station
- 1 at Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Station
- 1 at Kennedy Station
- 1 at St George Station
- 1 at Bloor-Yonge Station
- 1 at Don Mills Station
- 1 at Kipling Station
This summer, the TTC began pursuing in-station PPE vending machines as one more way to make it even easier for TTC customers to access masks and other hygienic supplies. MVF & Associates (MVF) was selected following a competitive bid process. MVF is responsible for all installation, maintenance and replenishment of the machines.
Customers can purchase a variety of items from the machines, including single-use and multi-use face coverings, gloves, sanitizer and wipes. Customers can pay using cash and cashless methods.
"As the global pandemic continues, we know, more than ever, that we are all in this together," said TTC CEO Rick Leary. "Safety is a core value at the TTC and we want to make sure that our customers feel safe on all our vehicles and in our stations. We are always looking for new ways to enhance safety and give our customers choices. These vending machines are just one more way we are doing that."
Customer service representatives and staff ambassadors will continue to distribute single-use masks to customers free of charge at many TTC locations, including some subway stations and along busy parts of the bus network.
Stay up-to-date on the latest information on COVID-19 and the TTC by visiting the TTC's COVID webpage.