Bed Bug Update 8/14/24

Yesterday (8/13) there was much discussion and speculation of bed bugs at Metro.  Every time there is a sighting, we have taken it seriously and quarantined and treated the bus or room. However, I want to emphasize that we cannot treat sightings that aren't reported to management. Prior to yesterday, the last reported sighting was two weeks ago (8/1) in a bus. Prior to yesterday, there had not been any reports of them inside the building outside of a bus or hoist since 2023. I'm clarifying here that any reports should be made to the shop office or dispatch, who, in turn, must immediately inform Josh Marty and Justin Maki.

In June and July, there were 5 reported bed bug sightings and an additional 2 reported yesterday. These have all been immediately responded to using Metro Bed Bug procedures posted around the building. In all cases the buses have been sealed and signed in plain view prior to and during treatment and there was no attempt to conceal any of the process from employees. Please refer to the Bed Bug procedures posted around the building.

I also want to make sure you all understand that our only option is to rapidly treat sightings - there is no way to prevent. Even if a bus is treated and inspected clear, the first passenger that steps on could bring one. Also, one bug does not mean an "infestation". Bugs are carried in by people, dropped, and then take time to reproduce and lay eggs. That said, with yesterday's report, we brought in the K9 inspection company again to do a thorough inspection of the building. There were a couple alerts from the K9 in the driver’s men’s locker room and by the interior of dispatch window. These areas will be treated as soon as possible.  We will also start doing random inspections of buses to ensure there are not any widespread problems.

For increased employee visibility, Metro will be mounting a bulletin board in the main hallway and will post any bed bug activity updates. Please monitor this board for any updates going forward.

Again, I'm asking that we have open communication on any sightings and that we don't rely on rumors for our information.

Shop office: post this email at the time clock for employees without email

Ops: post this email in a couple high visibility locations for employee without email

Any questions, please reach out to me or other members of management.

Josh Marty 
Maintenance Manager of Facilities