Request ID: FOI-2506-2324 Date published: 07 November 2023
You asked
I note that TFL are now deploying anti-viral agents on the transport system and I've often experienced strong and irritating chemical odours as I travel on TFL services. My request is to know:
What products are being used?
How they are being applied/distributed?
Is there a safety assessment of the products being breathed in or absorbed through the skin by the passengers?
Are any of these or other products being introduced into the air conditioning/ventilation systems?
We answered
Our Ref: FOI-2506-2324 Thank you for your request received on 19 October 2023 asking for information about anti-viral agents used on our transport network. Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) and our information access policy. I can confirm that we do hold the information you have requested. TfL has always had a robust cleaning regime in place across London’s public transport network. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, we have used anti-viral cleaning solutions – either Zoono or Guardicide - across the network in all public areas as well as in back-of-house areas that staff members use. Particular attention has been given to 'touch points' including all poles and handles that are touched by those travelling on the network, as well as steering wheels and controls in drivers' cabs. You asked:
What products are being used?
Guardicide is used on the London Underground and the bus fleet. Zoono is also used on the bus fleet.
How they are being applied/distributed?
They are applied to surfaces in different ways – Zoono is applied via a sprayed technique, whereas Guardicide is applied by touch.
Is there a safety assessment of the products being breathed in or absorbed through the skin by the passengers?
There is further information on the safety of these products on their respective manufacturer’s websites:
Are any of these or other products being introduced into the air conditioning/ventilation systems?
I can confirm that none of these, or any other products, are being introduced into the air conditioning/ventilation systems. If this is not the information you are looking for, or if you are unable to access it for any reason, please do not hesitate to contact me. Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal. Yours sincerely Gemma Jacob Senior FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
