TWU Summary

Safety Made Strong.

Accessibility Made Standard.

Empower Workers with Accessible Text Messaging

Rule of the Day SMS

Present Challenge

Today the Rule of the Day reaches members by being read aloud at the start of the tour. Our workforce speaks many languages, and English is the one we share. When a technical rule is read aloud and heard across different accents, dialects, and levels of English, often in noisy locker rooms, platforms, and yards, key details can get lost on both ends. That isn’t anyone’s fault, but it puts members at risk of missing safety information they’re responsible for.

Proposed Solution

The Rule of the Day SMS is a proposed concept that would use NYCT’s existing employee text-alert system to send the daily Rule to members who opt in, as an added channel alongside the in-person briefing. No new technology is needed.

Key attributes:

• Clear legibility: Plain, easy-to-read text.
• Assistive technologies: Works with built-in phone features such as text magnification and screen readers.
• Language support: Works with built-in translation tools.
• Read or listen: Phones can read the Rule aloud, in English or translated, privately and at the worker’s own pace.
• Works on any phone, any carrier: SMS needs no app, login, or smartphone.
• MTA-issued devices: Could also be delivered by SMS or push notification.
• Same wording for everyone: Every member gets the Rule exactly as written.
• Separate from emergency alerts: The Rule goes out as a clearly labeled, opt-in message, so mandatory alerts keep their urgency.
• Pilot-ready: Built on existing infrastructure, so a small pilot needs no new systems.

Member Protections

• Voluntary: Opt-in only. Members can opt out at any time, and choosing not to join has no consequences.
• No replacement: In-person briefings continue unchanged.
• No added duties: Members wouldn’t be required to read, reply to, or check messages during work. Existing phone-use rules still apply.
• Not for discipline: This concept proposes that SMS delivery records not be used in disciplinary matters. That would need to be agreed with the union.
• Privacy: No new information is collected. The Rule goes only to members who opt in, using contact details NYCT’s alert system already has.
• No cost to members.

Potential Benefits

For Members:

• The same Rule, in writing, regardless of location, hearing, or language.
• A copy to review later in the day.
• Uses phone features members already know: large text, screen readers, translation.

For the Union:

• An open lane: Since MTA created the Chief Accessibility Officer role in 2021, accessibility work has centered on riders: elevators, tactile edges, braille signage. Accessibility in members’ day-to-day work is still largely unclaimed ground.
• A practical first step: The Rule of the Day SMS costs little, asks nothing of members, and delivers something they can use from day one. TWU Local 100 can be the first to put workforce accessibility on the table, and help set the terms for how it’s done.

Pilot Recommendation

A 30-day pilot with one volunteer unit could test delivery, comprehension, and accessibility benefit. TWU Local 100 involvement would be essential in shaping any pilot and making sure it serves members.

Learn More

The Overview page describes how the concept works, and the FAQs page answers common questions.

Thank You

Thank you for your time and consideration. Questions and feedback are welcome: nicole.weedon@nyct.com