Essential LIRR workers are getting the protection they need during the pandemic.

Since March 1, the MTA says its distributed 300,000 N95 masks, 160,000 surgical masks and thousands of other personal protective equipment.

The MTA received a massive additional shipment of N95 masks over the weekend and was distributed to employees across all agencies.

"Obviously with this pandemic and the spread of the coronavirus, we at least want to make sure that our employees, who are heroes moving heroes, have the proper protection," said Phillip Eng, MTA LIRR president.

Eng says he continues to encourage essential workers and others who must travel on mass transit to use a face covering and continue to practice safe measures such as social distancing and staying home if sick.

MORE: LIVE BLOG - Coronavirus updates from the tri-state area and beyond 
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