Testing transit driver safety

Photo: CTV

Kelowna will be part of what BC Transit calls 'a proof of concept' for a full driver door.

The door is designed to protect drivers from potential assaults from passengers.

During a news conference in Victoria to unveil the program, BC Transit CEO Manuel Achadinha says five buses will be tested throughout the province over the next six months.

That includes three in Victoria and one each in Kelowna and Abbotsford.

In 2015, transit rolled out a year-long pilot project, testing a driver protection door.

Officials say the pilot project came back with mixed reviews. The design was modified, and will be tested again.

Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1722 president Scott Lovell has been advocating better driver safety for several years.

In a news release following the Victoria announcement, Lovell applauded the efforts of all concerned in introducing the driver shield.

"We believe this is a positive step forward in overall safety for the bus driver and public," he said.

"We are encouraging all members to fully complete the trial surveys and look forward to seeing the results and ultimate design determination for the shield. We are hopeful this process moves along quickly and a final solution for this shield can be installed across the province."

Currently, 41 of Kelowna's 100 transit buses are also equipped with CCTV security cameras.