Passenger Safety Improved on Commercial Vans

TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS--Passenger Safety Improved on Commercial Vans

The province is introducing new rules for commercial vans that operate between Nova Scotia communities. It's a move that will help protect the travelling public.

The changes will require van owners to undergo two major mechanical inspections a year and carry proper first aid equipment and a fire extinguisher. Operators must also inspect their vehicles before each trip, maintain log books, hold at least a class 4 driver's licence and carry a minimum amount of insurance to cover passengers.

Nova Scotia is the first province in Canada to develop comprehensive safety regulations for small vans, with multiple links to the National Safety Code.

"Using commercial vans for travel has really caught on with consumers in recent years so it's vital that we provide for the safety of passengers," said Michael Baker, Minister of Transportation and Public Works.

The new safety rules will apply to about 40 shuttle businesses now operating in Nova Scotia and any new companies that enter the market.

"We are committed to the safety of our passengers and feel that this safety initiative will add to passenger confidence," said Larry Campbell, owner and operator of Campbell's Shuttle Service, which operates between Yarmouth and Halifax. "The regulations will also ensure the integrity of the operators providing services in the province."

The province has consulted with van operators and users to get their input and to outline the new safety requirements. Earlier this year, letters and fact sheets were mailed directly to Nova Scotia operators.

The Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board is responsible for enforcing the regulations. The board has the power to suspend or cancel the commercial licence of any operator who contravenes the regulations.

The new rules become effective Jan. 1, 2003. They apply to commercial minivans, which are defined as vans carrying eight or fewer paying passengers, not including courtesy vans or vans used to commute between home and work or school.