Spot the Bus Barrier – the next step in the pilot begins
Spot the Bus Barrier – the next step in the pilot begins
As reported in the media here, here and here, we are working with BC Transit, Unifor 111, Unifor 333 and WorkSafeBC to determine the best design for a safety barrier that will be most effective in preventing assaults on CMBC Transit operators. Check out an earlier announcement on other measures we are taking to prevent operator assaults.
We know you must have some questions – here are five queries asked and answered:
What is a transit operator safety barrier?
Safety barriers are a physical barrier typically made of a hard and transparent material composed of plastic and/or glass. The barrier enables a physical separation between driver and passengers while providing clear sightlines and the ability to verbally communicate with passengers.
Why is CMBC trying out a pilot barrier program?
The safety of our employees and customers is our top priority. Assaults on operators are unacceptable, and can put the lives of many people at risk.
How are operators participating in the pilot?
We are providing operators with a first-hand opportunity to experience the barrier prototype and provide feedback on the design.Feedback from operators will be collected over the next six months and then analyzed. This information will be used tohelp refine the design of the barrier and determine the best approach in protecting our operators from physical attacks.
Where can I see the barrier prototype in service?
The bus will be driven at various times and on various routes.
How can customers provide feedback on the barrier prototype?
Customer feedback is being gathered through all the usual channels. If you have questions or comments to share, contact Customer Relations through the online form or by phone at 604-953-3040 on weekdays from 8 am until 8 pm.
Author: Angela Salehi
Specifically, which routes will the bus run on? It is just so we get a rough idea of where it will be running. How can we give our feedback if we do not have a rough idea if where it will be running?
It is similar to other demos where people in Surrey/Richmond never get to see any of the demonstration work.
It’s a Burnaby based bus so any routes that are operated by BTC such as 106,112,116,123,125,129,130,134,136,144,26,27,28,29 etc.
Thanks for weighing in Scott!
The safety barrier prototype is installed on a NOVA bus. This means that it could be travelling on a number of routes out of the Burnaby Transit Centre. Here are some of the routes the barrier might be on:
027 – Kootenay Loop/Joyce Station
106 – New Westminster/Metrotown Station
123 – New Westminster/Brentwood Station
125 – Patterson Station/BCIT
129 – Metrotown Station/Edmonds Station
130 – Metrotown/Hastings/Kootenay/Capilano University
Further to your other question Juan, the pilot program may expand to include different types of buses – like diesel or trolley. If that happens, riders in your area may find themselves on a bus with a safety barrier prototype.
Stay tuned for updates!
Will the barrier prevent the ability for passengers to chat with drivers or ask questions?
Hi Ric, We don’t anticipate that this safety measure will prevent communications between passengers and operators, but that is exactly the reason that operators now have the chance to experience the effects of the barrier in service. We are taking the time to check for any impacts the safety barrier has on the work environment and customer service.