TWU Bus Drivers Speak Out: PTA Acts to Make Buses Safer

Concerns raised by TWU delegates have led to the Public Transport Authority (PTA) moving to retrofit engine hatch locks to buses across the network.

Bus drivers had raised concerns about members of the public being able to access the external engine controls and disable critical functions, including the bus engine.

In these situations, drivers are left stranded inside a bus, unable to safely move the vehicle or operate its doors, while dealing with potentially dangerous or antisocial passengers.

The new engine hatch locks will provide an important additional layer of protection. Once retrofitted, bus drivers will have access to the locked compartment with a key, helping prevent members of the public from interfering with the controls.

TWU State Secretary Tim Dawson said the outcome was a direct result of bus drivers having the courage to speak up about safety issues in their workplace.

“We commend our bus drivers and our TWU delegates for standing up and speaking out on behalf of the bus industry. This win belongs to them.”

“Our members identified a genuine safety risk, raised their concerns and made sure they were heard. The PTA has taken those concerns seriously and moved swiftly to work towards a safer solution. We thank the PTA for listening to our bus drivers and acting on this important issue.”

The additional locks will bring diesel buses in line with the extra precautions already fitted to electric buses.

Gas-powered buses will not receive the same lock as the network moves through its decommissioning phase.

For the TWU, this is an important reminder of what can be achieved when bus drivers speak up, unions advocate for their members, and employers listen.

The TWU will continue to advocate for practical safety measures that protect bus drivers and ensure they can do their jobs without unnecessary risks from antisocial behaviour.