Have you ever been on the TTC and noticed a passenger blocking the doorway or simply playing music from their phone out loud? You’re not the only one, and because of this, transit riders are drafting a list of TTC etiquette.
In a recent social media post, a transit rider expressed their frustration with common habits that they notice on the TTC, which they’ve deemed as inappropriate behaviour.
“I’ve come to realize that some people just have spatial awareness of a potato. Instead of just ranting or listing specific pet peeves, I’m going to try and be constructive and offer a few helpful reminders,” the Reddit user said.
The user then went on to post a list of eight rules that people on the TTC should follow to be respectful and mindful, some of these rules dealt with spacing.
“Taking off your backpack on a crowded vehicle saves space… Let people off before getting on. Wild concept, I know. But imagine if we all tried to exit a burning building while others were trying to enter it,” they said.
While some of the rules kept those who are most vulnerable top of mind.
“Offer your seat if someone obviously needs it (pregnant, elderly, injured, etc). You may try this non-verbal special combo move: eye contact + smile + point at your seat,” the user said.
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Other recommendations on the list include covering one’s mouth when coughing, and even reminding other passengers that the right side of the escalator is typically for standing while the left is for walking.
Other users quickly joined the discussion offering their own rules and reminders.
“Wear headphones for music and phone conversations,” one Reddit user said.
“Keep your feet off the seats!,” another user said.
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One user even mentioned the importance of using hygiene products.
“Deodorant. Wear it on,” the user said.
The post sparked a lengthy discussion, with many feeling surprised that some rules even had to be said, and others saying they feel the transit system has changed for the worse over the years.
While people continue to draft their own list, the TTC already has a set of bylaws, which does include proper conduct that passengers must follow, some of them appearing quite similar to the ones already mentioned by passengers.
“No person shall, place his or her foot or feet on a vehicle seat or lay thereon any object or substance that may soil it.” the bylaw said.
In addition, one bylaw even restricts the use of playing audio out loud from a device.
“No person shall, without authorization, operate any radio, recording device, digital music or audio device… on TTC property unless the sound is conveyed to that person by an earphone at a sound level that does not disturb other passengers,” the bylaw said.
