A new safety door to protect bus drivers is being tested in Kelowna.
BC Transit says the 'full driver door' will improve safety and limit distractions for drivers, while still allowing interaction with passengers.
The doors cost about $6-thousand dollars each - and have also been installed on three Victoria buses and one in Abbotsford.
“The safety and well-being of BC Transit’s hardworking drivers is essential to getting people where they need to go,” said Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “Combined with the recently introduced CCTV cameras, BC Transit buses are on track to being safer than ever for drivers and passengers alike.”
“Everyone has a right to a workplace that is free from harassment and violence,” said Harry Bains, Minister of Labour and Minister responsible for WorkSafeBC. “Transit drivers are responsible for the safety of thousands of people every day, and it’s a difficult job. I applaud BC Transit for investing in workplace safety, making safety a priority and providing drivers with protections to reduce risks and prevent injuries.
BC Transit says it's made significant investments in safety over the past five years including closed circuit television cameras, driver training to diffuse situations, partnerships with first responders and enhanced communication technology on board the buses.