Winnipeg, MB – Winnipeg Transit will be adding five new Transit Inspectors on-street and on buses immediately as part of its ongoing commitment to improving operator and passenger safety.
Transit Inspectors are highly-trained former bus operators who are uniquely positioned to be a resource for both operators and passengers. They are a strong presence on-street and are familiar with all aspects of the transit system. They can assist passengers with transit-related information and are enforcement officers for the Public Transit By-law.
Winnipeg Transit is currently piloting a training program for new operators in partnership with the Main Street Project which aims to reduce the potential for conflict and improve safety on the transit system by increasing mental health and addictions awareness. As a result of positive feedback from operators, Winnipeg Transit is looking at providing the training for all current operators.
The Transit Advisory Committee (TAC) recommended that the Public Service provide a report on the pilot training program, and to conduct a consultant-led study on the long-term plan for transit safety as part of the 2019 budget, subject to Council approval.
In addition, TAC recommended that Winnipeg Transit begin discussions with the Winnipeg Police Service regarding the Bear Clan’s possible involvement in future transit safety initiatives, and to look into the possibility of equipping its inspectors with vests and providing additional training.
“I’m pleased that the Transit Advisory Committee made recommendations to further enhance the Transit security presence, and am supportive of these additional initiatives,” said Councillor Matt Allard, Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Infrastructure Renewal and Public Works.
In spring 2017, Winnipeg Transit prepared a comprehensive list of current safety management practices, and researched potential concepts that would provide increased security for transit bus operators and customers. The report was adopted by the Standing Policy Committee on Infrastructure Renewal and Public Works on May 30, 2017.
In the report, Winnipeg Transit recommended implementing the following safety enhancement initiatives, which have all been achieved to date:
- A pilot project to test bus operator safety barriers,
- A Transit Advisory Committee to review industry practices, assess and determine trends, and recommend strategies to improve safety,
- An advertising campaign to encourage customers to report undesirable behavior, and
- Stronger reporting procedures with the Winnipeg Police Service to facilitate proactive safety initiatives within the ‘Winnipeg Police Service Smart Policing Initiative’.
The report recommended that the following safety enhancement concepts be considered in the 2018 budget process, both of which were approved and have been achieved to date:
- Adding one instructor and three dedicated relief operators to provide additional ongoing training for operators to prevent and diffuse conflict, and
- Four new Point Duty Inspectors to assist operators and passengers at set strategic locations.
The report also recommended the expansion of the audio/video surveillance system on buses to deter undesirable behaviour and assist with identification, investigation, and prosecution of perpetrators. Winnipeg Transit has issued a Request for Proposals for the installation of additional cameras on its fleet of buses.
For more information on Winnipeg Transit, please see winnipegtransit.com.