BART launches mobile app for riders to report bio-hazards

OAKLAND, Calif. (KTVU) - BART is ramping up its efforts to keep the train cars and stations cleaner. But now there is a quicker way passengers can help. BART launched a new a mobile bio-hazard reporting option for passengers Monday.

"It goes to our operation control center then we can deploy the team to find that train and clean it as quickly as possible," said Anna Duckworth, BART spokeswoman.

The feature is on BART's mobile website or at the address m.bart.gov. It allows passengers to type in what potentially hazardous item they see and what car they see it on, then press send.

"Now we have mid-line cleaners that can intercept cars as they come through," said Duckworth.

When that train stops at MacArthur or Lake Merritt, the response team, equipped with a pick-up stick and safe box, will remove it.

The idea for the program was hatched after a passenger shot video that went viral of a shooting gallery at the Civic Center BART Station.

Passengers say the mobile reporting idea is a good one.

"It's good BART has stepped up and is making it cleaner and safer," said Susannah Morandin of Albany.

"I definitely will use it. It will help BART and help people around me be safe," said Kevin Castan who commutes from Oakland

BART riders have been complaining about what they find on their commutes.

"Needles, used diapers, condoms, open condoms. Everything," said Castan said.

More and more hypodermic needles have been turning up on the train seats and station floors. BART is adding five more people to its rapid response clean-up team. 

The team is based at the MacArthur and Lake Merritt stations in Oakland where all the train lines pass through at least one of the stations. 

BART said no needles were reported as of Monday evening.