ATTACHMENT 1

Report to/Rapport au:

Transportation Committee / Comité des transports

and Council/et au Conseil

February 4, 2004/le 4 février 2004

Submitted by/Soumis par: R.T. Leclair, General Manager/Directrice générale,

Transportation, Utilities and Public Works/Transports, Services et Travaux publics

Contact/Personne-ressource: G. Diamond, Director/Directeur,

Transit Services/Services de transport en commun

842-3636 ext./poste 2271, gordon.diamond@ottawa.ca

Ref No: ACS2004-TUP-TRN-0001

SUBJECT: TRANSIT SERVICES / TRANSIT SECURITY POSTURE, PROGRAMS AND PROCEDURES

OBJET : SERVICES DE TRANSPORT EN COMMUN / PROCÉDURES, PROGRAMMES ET CONDITIONS DE SÉCURITÉ DU TRANSPORT EN COMMUN

REPORT RECOMMENDATION

That the Public Works, Transit and Infrastructure Services Committee receive this report for information.

RECOMMANDATION DU RAPPORT

Que le Comité permanent des travaux publics, du transport en commun et des services d’infrastructure prenne connaissance du présent rapport à titre d’information.

INTRODUCTION

Recent security-related incidents on the transit system caused a number of questions to be raised by the media, community groups, customers and Councillors concerning personal safety. The purpose of this report is to answer those questions and demonstrate that the resources, training, programs and technologies dedicated to Transit Security continue to ensure Ottawa has one of the safest transit systems in North America for a city of its size.

SECURITY POSTURE

Staffing and Training

The current Transit Security unit consists of 51 employees deployed as follows:

· 1 Program Manager, Transit Security

· 2 Superintendents of Transit Security Operations, Day/Evening

· 5 Transit Law Enforcement Officers (TLEO’s) Working Supervisors

· 28 Transit Law Enforcement Officers (TLEO’s)

· 9 Security Controllers

· 6 Property Protection Officers (PPO’s)

In addition, the unit has a fleet of 9 marked security vehicles.

The way in which the security service has evolved from 1976, when 12 security officers were hired to replace the contracted guards that had been providing security to OC Transpo garages, is summarized in Appendix A. As the Transitway expanded and more stations, park & rides, buses were introduced, transit security was also increased and new technologies implemented. With the introduction of O-Train service and expansion of bus service to rural areas, Transit Security’s responsibilities increased as well.

Transit Security staff are well qualified and fully trained to provide effective security. Minimum recruitment requirements for selection are:

· Two-year Law & Security Administration Diploma or equivalent

· One year of practical experience dealing with the public in a security environment

· Valid CPR/First Aid Certificate

· No Criminal Record

Historically, Transit Security officers have been initially hired as Property Protection Officers, receiving 4 to 6 weeks on-the-job training with a “coach” officer. Promotion to Transit Law Enforcement Officer or to Security Controller is by competition. All officers moving to another job classification undergo further on-the-job training of 4 to 6 weeks and undergo an evaluation at the end of their training period.

In-house training on such subjects as powers of arrest, youth gangs, diversity, use of force, self-defence and critical incident debriefing are delivered on a regular basis. A summary of the training given to TLEO’s is outlined in Appendix D.

Security Control Centre

Transit Security is supported by a modern control centre which is staffed on a continual 24/7 basis. The control centre monitors 121 closed circuit TV (CCTV) cameras located at Transitway and O-Train Stations, as well as OC Transpo facilities. Controllers also monitor 241 emergency call boxes located in all transit stations, facilities, and Park & Ride lots.

Other alarm monitoring functions performed by controllers include the internal 9-1-1 emergency phone system, access control, fire and smoke, escalators and elevators and fire hose cabinets, as well as environmental systems monitoring for all OC Transpo facilities and transit stations.

Most importantly, Security Controllers coordinate the response of all internal resources (TLEO/Property Protection/Transit Supervisors) with external resources (Police/Fire/Ambulance) to all incidents and emergencies (see protocol Appendix B). The Security Control Centre is purposely co-located with the Transit Operations Control Centre and Customer Call Centre, ensuring effective operational communications and information to customers, minimizing the time taken to respond to incidents and coordinating response with Transit Supervisors. The average response time to incidents on the Transitway is five minutes or less.

Backup Emergency Communication Control Site

In the event of an emergency evacuation or the unlikelihood of technical equipment failure in the main communications Control Centres at 1500 St. Laurent (Transit Operations and Transit Security), a backup site has been established at 875 Belfast Road. This site will ensure the provision of uninterrupted communication with all OC Transpo vehicles, emergency phone monitoring and some computer programs utilized by Transit Operations. It is proposed that this site be upgraded to include most of the capabilities of the main Communications Control Centres in 2004.

Should a serious emergency situation preclude the use of the primary or back-up sites, Transit Operations and Security can be controlled by Superintendents and Supervisors from their mobile vehicles and Transitway offices.

Security Officers in the Transit System

Transit Law Enforcement Officers are deployed to provide 24/7 coverage on the Transitway and respond to incidents and emergencies on the transit system. The majority of officers are scheduled Monday to Friday for afternoon peak period service, as well as high officer visibility on Saturday evenings. During these peak periods up to 12 TLEO’s provide 9 mobile patrols and response units, and teams of officers performing “Walk and Ride" duties.

In addition to the regular deployment of personnel, Transit Security regularly provides enhanced coverage for special events or high profile activities that may affect transit service or properties.

· Mobile and foot patrols - 33 Transit Law Enforcement Officers (TLEO’s) enforce the Transit Regulatory By-laws, ticket offenders and arrest persons found committing criminal acts. Officers patrol the Transitway and respond to transit system incidents off the Transitway across the city.

· “Walk & Ride” teams which provide a highly visibile security presence on buses, trains and at stations during day and evening hours have been increased to five (10 officers) in 2003. In addition to positive visual deterrence, these teams provide physical audits and customer service functions on a regular basis while enforcing Regional Regulatory Code 3.2, including fare inspection.

· Plainclothes (PC) Operations – TLEOs also conduct covert plainclothes operations, involving night surveillance against vandalism, counter-theft/fraud investigations and monitoring of unwanted behaviour, in situations where it is deemed they can be more effective than uniformed officers. Plainclothes operations are also conducted in conjunction with the OPS and other security organizations on a regular basis.

· Property protection - Six Property Protection Officers (PPOs) currently provide security services to protect garage depots, vehicles and transit property from vandalism and trespassers. They patrol and respond to incidents on the properties as well as provide emergency response to alarms. They are responsible for securing and verifying doors and gates during non-operational hours. While patrolling, officers perform an audit of the premises, reporting any defective equipment and hazardous conditions they observe. Monthly fire extinguisher checks are conducted at all facilities. They are also responsible to enforce parking regulations specific to each property, and monitor traffic flow at the facility.

SECURITY PROTOCOL

The assurance of an effective transit security system is founded on strong partnerships between Operators, Transit Supervisors and Transit Security.

· Operator Ambassador Training – During initial and cyclical training, operators receive instruction on how to identify and deal with difficult situations and disputes which possibly may affect their safety or the safety of their passengers. If confronted with difficult situations, the operator may ask the person(s) to leave for fare, health or safety reasons. Should the situation escalate, the operator is instructed to radio Transit Operations Control at which time the appropriate response is will be initiated in accordance with established procedure (see Appendix B).

· Coach’s Corner - Coach's Corner was instituted to formalize response protocols to incidents occurring on the transit system. A working group of Transit Supervisors and Transit Law Enforcement Officers were tasked to develop team response protocols to incidents such as assault, disturbances, and fare disputes. The written protocols ensure a consistent and effective response is directed to all incidents.

Each protocol defines the steps to be taken from the point the initial "call and information” is received to the follow-up actions after a call is completed. Coach's Corner also developed critical incident debriefings utilizing the OPS model to address post-incident review. This process is used regularly and assists in identifying areas where improvements may be indicated (see Appendix B)

Security Initiatives

Transit Security staff lead and participate in a number of initiatives designed to make the transit system safer and to enhance residents’ confidence in transit.

· Partnership Building/Outreach Law Enforcement - Transit Security and Ottawa Police Service have a 20‑year history of strong collaboration on many initiatives including the Transecure Program. Partnerships have included numerous joint operations focused on both proactive and enforcement measures to address crime and disorder problems experienced on transit and in the community. In recent years, Transit Security has forged a strong working relationship with OPS Neighbourhood Officers (NHO’s) and with the OPS Youth Liaison Section Student Resource Officers (SRO’s) assigned to schools. In addition to OPS, partnerships are established and maintained with OPP, RCMP, CN-CP Police and private security firms (malls), as well as Carleton University and the University of Ottawa security departments. ‘Project Sweep’ in response to community safety/security concerns at South Keys in the Spring of 2003 is a successful example of cooperative efforts by OPS, Transit Security and South Keys Mall private security that resulted in 42 arrests and deflation of neighbourhood concerns.

· Community Outreach – Presentations are done on a regular basis to schools and community groups regarding the Transecure Program, Operation Lifesaver (page 8) and relevant general information sessions. A recent example of outreach success is the “Family Services Youth Partnership Award” presented to OC Transpo by the Somali Centre in appreciation for community assistance and “for removing employment barriers for the Somali Community”.

· Conflict Resolution - Transit Services has partnered with the Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA), The Federal Department of Justice - Business Action Program (BAP), GO Transit, Mississauga Transit, The Canadian Council of the Amalgamated Transit Union, Greyhound Canada and the International Centre for Conflict Resolution and Mediation (ICCRM) to develop and implement conflict resolution and violence prevention processes for the Transit Industry. The goals of this national initiative entitled “The Community Peace Building Network” are to reduce violence and assaults against transit staff and property and to develop positive problem-solving skills within organizations and the communities served by transit.

The Business Action Program have approved $100,000 per year for three years for the project and has also expressed interest in expanding the scope of the community and school initiatives through increased future levels of funding.

· Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) - A highly effective tool in security planning is the process of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). The process comprises disciplines in urban planning, architectural design, social sciences, physical security, in addition to security education and awareness initiatives. Transit Services embraces these principles and has applied them to all new facilities including Mackenzie King Bridge, Bayshore and five O-Train stations, applying both natural and engineered lighting techniques to vastly improve sightlines and safety.

NOTE: CPTED principles were utilized in the design of the Bayshore Transit Station (three photos,) which is now a ‘model’ for OPS CPTED training.

To make the overall transit system safer, audit teams are revisiting older stations to identify opportunities to utilize CPTED principles to further enhance security. Security audits of transit stations together with police and the community group Women's Initiatives for Safer Environments (WISE) help assess and improve security measures using the aforementioned principles. These audits identify and recommend improvements to lighting, security features, sightlines, signage, and maintenance and items are actioned where agreed to be appropriate.

· Threat, Risk Impact Analysis – In 2000, the consulting firm of KPMG was retained by OC Transpo to perform a threat, risk impact assessment of OC Transpo facilities with respect to the protection of personnel and mission-critical assets. The assessment was a result of jury recommendations made as part of the Coroner’s inquest into the April 6, 1999 tragedy.

Recommendations included improvements to the exterior lighting, emergency phones located throughout garages, enhancement of the internal alarm systems in garages and the review and updating of internal emergency procedures. In addition, a major application of CCTV technology was applied to OC Transpo facilities as well as the phasing in of automated access control. Many of the recommendations have application to Transitway facilities as well.

· Reward Programs – In addition to Crime Stoppers, a reward of up to $500 for information leading to conviction of any person or persons damaging transit property and vehicles has resulted in a number of convictions for vandalism and graffiti in recent years.

· Graffiti Management - OC Transpo has been heavily involved in combating graffiti since 1990; a situation experienced by many other North American transit properties as well. At that time, OC Transpo transit security implemented a program very similar to City of Ottawa programs launched recently which focus on the four E's (eradication, education, enforcement, and empowerment). These initiatives have resulted in a significant decrease of graffiti on the transit system.

· Adopt-a-Station - Transit Security implemented this program in early 2003. Transit Law Enforcement Officers are given responsibility for one station. They are required to submit a weekly audit report for their station, which addresses areas such as lighting, elevator and escalator maintenance, incidents of graffiti not removed, fire extinguisher readiness, and emergency phone testing and readiness, which is then forwarded to the appropriate department for follow up.

· O-Train Security - Prior to the commencement of O-Train operations in 2001, Transit Security participated in a major team effort to prepare the system for revenue service. CPTED principles, legislated safety and security requirements, as well as best practices were incorporated into the planning and preparation of the right-of-way and O-Train stations. Transit Security also participated in the development and implementation of the security plan and overall Safety Management System. Many of the security procedures and response protocols then in use on the Transitway and transit system were applied to the light rail system and have proven very effective.

· Emergency Response - In addition to Security response protocols, Transit Security has been instrumental in the design and development of emergency response procedures for all transit facilities and transit system including the O-Train. Working with the Emergency Preparedness and Response Coordinator, Security has enhanced response planning by the development of a Security Escalation Plan outlining security's steps in the event of serious criminal or terrorist threats directed at the Transit system.

The Transit facility Fire and Building Evacuation Plan details correct procedures for dealing with violent persons, fire, bomb threats, power outages, environmental or natural disaster at transit properties. Transit Security is central in these procedures, noting the building emergency telephone system is directly linked to the Security Control console, providing immediate identification of exact locations through the building numbering system, greatly enhancing response time.

For O-Train incidents, Security utilizes an Emergency Access Map and telephone display system that indicates key access points and the location of emergency equipment along the rail route. Coupled with a Safety Guide for Emergency Responders, this helps ensure Transit Security and other first responders are able to deal effectively with any O-Train emergencies. The Railway Passenger Handling Safety and Emergency Response Procedures developed with and approved by Transport Canada, further ensures Security staff are well trained in handling railway incidents.

· Security Presentations - Security awareness sessions are delivered to all new bus operators during their initial training program and to veteran operators during their regular cyclical training. A uniformed Transit Law Enforcement Officer presents an overview of the Transit Security Department and provides specific information for operators on Transit Security authority, operator assistance, response protocols and current security initiatives and programs.

· Operation Lifesaver – OC Transpo Transit Security has “certified presenters” involved in this national education and awareness program. Operation Lifesaver promotes three E’s: Education - to increase public awareness about the dangers around the rails. The program seeks to educate both drivers and pedestrians to make safe decisions at crossings and around railroad tracks. Enforcement - promotes active enforcement of traffic laws relating to crossing signs and signals and private property laws related to trespassing. Engineering - encourages continued engineering research and innovation to improve the safety of railroad crossings.

· Transecure - is a program that was developed in 1991 in partnership with the Ottawa Police Services that provides a 24-hour community watch involving all 1439 drivers, 48 Transit supervisors, 4 Transit Superintendents and 51 security personnel to report unusual incidents and help ensure a safe community. In addition, all other mobile employees (e.g. Fleet and RPAM service trucks) are also aware of the program and encouraged to make reports. The program works like a Neighbourhood Watch on wheels, creating a more secure environment for all transit customers, employees, vehicles, property and the city overall. Operators and other employees report some 30 observations monthly on average, many of which are security-related. This well-received, proactive program results in a monthly recognition of the employee selected by a review panel. Monthly recipients then qualify for an annual award presented in a ceremony at City Hall, which involves senior representatives of the OPS, RCMP, OPP and City of Ottawa.

· Night Stop – is a program under the Transecure umbrella, which provides a brightly lit, well-monitored common stop (yellow sign) for services at ten Transitway stations and also permits customers to be dropped off closer to their home, rather than at a formal bus stop, after 9 p.m.

· Bait Car - In March of 2003, OC Transpo in conjunction with Ottawa Police and several private agencies, commenced a "Bait Car” pilot project. The goal of the project is to reduce the number of car thefts in the City of Ottawa. Shopping centre parking lots and OC Transpo Park & Ride lots were identified as some of the more vulnerable target areas for this type of crime. As a result, Transit Services was asked by Ottawa Police to partner in this initiative which proved highly successful in Hamilton in the year 2000 and has since been expanded in Hamilton city-wide.

A bait car is a statistically ‘high-theft’ vehicle equipped with a Global Positioning System and remote vehicle shut down capability. For the purposes of the pilot and to act as a deterrent, signage is installed in the parking lot to visibly warn offenders of the program. The message is reinforced by media releases. When a bait car is stolen, police track the vehicle and when the opportunity arises, they render the vehicle inoperable, and effect an arrest. Thus far, the program has yielded positive results at the Orleans Park & Ride (pilot lot), indicating a marked decline from 22 auto thefts in 2002 to 9 in 2003.

Transit User Policies and Messages

· Courtesy and Respect – All employees and customers have the right to feel safe and be treated with courtesy and respect. To ensure these rights, Federal, Provincial and Municipal laws are enacted that prohibit; causing a disturbance, threatening behaviour, assault and consumption of alcohol on the transit system. TLEO’s enforce these laws, specifically the Regional Regulatory Code sections that apply to transit (see Appendix E). “Courtesy and Respect” posters are displayed on all buses, in public offices, transit stations and transit workplaces to reinforce the message.

· CCTV Camera Signage – All transit facilities currently equipped with electronic surveillance coverage have proper notification signage for both a deterrent factor and to comply with the City of Ottawa CCTV policy. In addition, OC Transpo is trialing on-board CCTV systems and warning stickers indicating 'FOR YOUR SAFETY, VIDEO CAMERAS ARE INSTALLED ON SELECTED BUSES' are on many buses.  

Transit Security Technology

Both commercial businesses and municipalities have significantly reduced crime and enhanced personal safety to users through the wide spread application of technology. This technology must be both visible and clearly advertised, as is the case with the CCTV surveillance systems and the yellow emergency call boxes in transit stations.

Visual deterrents such as uniformed officers, electronic surveillance and supporting signage have been applied system-wide to ensure that potential offenders understand there is a high probability they will be detected, reported and apprehended if they cause problems. This broad spectrum of mutually supportive deterrents, including an effective response mechanism for reported infractions, help to discourage unwanted activity and criminal acts such as assaults and harassment. The effective response mechanism involves close interaction between the bus Operator reporting the problem, and the Transit Supervisor or Transit Law Enforcement Officer that respond to the call for assistance.

· Transit Security Electronic Surveillance –Transit Security’s electronic surveillance system consists of 121 cameras, the majority of which are colour Pan Tilt and Zoom (PTZ) low-light cameras, strategically installed in 20 locations, including the major bus and O‑Train stations, garages and administration buildings. They allow security control officers to pan the camera 360 degrees and tilt 90 degrees. The cameras can be programmed automatically to scan their perimeter and have motion detection capabilities. All CCTV cameras record simultaneously. Video records can be produced post-incident for investigative and evidentiary purposes.

· Radio Communications – All buses are equipped with two-way multi-channel radios constantly monitored at the Transit Operations Control Centre as well as by all mobile Transit Supervisor cars, Security cars and maintenance vehicles. The communication system allows for common-channel use during emergency situations and all users are trained in Emergency Radio Channel Procedures.

· Emergency Silent Communication – Each bus is also equipped with an emergency button (called the red line) for silent reporting of emergency situations. If a driver pushes the red line button or reports an emergency involving physical confrontations, Transit Security and Ottawa Police are dispatched immediately to the vehicle without question.

· Yellow Emergency Call Boxes – 241 call boxes are located in all Transitway and O‑Train stations with a direct-dial security button to Security Control. Upon activation, the location of the call box is immediately identified within the station by Security Control and the user is immediately in direct voice communication with the Security Controller and can also be monitored by surveillance cameras. If the customer prefers a more private conversation, they can make a free, direct, no-dial call to Security Control by any payphone in any transit station by just pressing the “Security” button located under the number pad.

· GPS Pilot Project – Mobile Data Terminals (MDT) and Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment are currently installed on 20 articulated buses to provide precise location/ identification. On completion of a successful pilot, plans are to install GPS in all the bus fleet starting this year. The O-Trains are already GPS-equipped and their precise position is displayed in the Transit Control Centre.

· Lighting – In the last few years, there have been major lighting upgrades at the Lincoln Fields, St. Laurent, Tunney’s Pasture and Westboro stations. Similar lighting upgrades are currently in process at Hurdman, South Keys, and Lees stations. In all older stations, fluorescent lighting is being replaced with High Intensity Discharge (HID) lights (Metal Halide white light) as existing lights fail. In addition to these upgrades, all new stations and Park & Ride facilities have been fitted with HID lighting since 1999 (i.e. Bayshore, Fallowfield, Eagleson and all O-Train stations). The new transit station at Terry Fox will be similarly outfitted.

· Mirrors - Convex security mirrors, combined with adequate lighting, vastly improve a person’s ability to visualize the surrounding environment and provide an additional sense of security as well as an obvious deterrent to unwanted activity.   These mirrors are strategically located in all transit stations where required.   

Transit Security Statistics and Best PRactices

A summary of the growth of OC Transpo services and transit security statistics from 1999 to 2003 is given in Appendix C. In those five years, ridership has increased by 17%, or 13.3 million, there are 67 more buses and 3 trains in service, plus 8 new stations and 3 new Park & Ride lots; however, the number of security-related incidents has remained relatively constant.

Security statistics are not kept on a consistent basis across the transit industry in North America, nor are they shared publicly. To address this issue, Transit Services is currently working with the Canadian Urban Transit Association to develop consistent definitions and a common database. Transit Security staff are in close contact with colleagues in other cities across North America and frequently consult on best practices to keep abreast of trends and best practices. OC Transpo security is regarded as a leader in the transit industry and is frequently used as a resource by other transit properties seeking improvements to their security services.

Since the Coroner’s inquest, dozens of transit organizations, other companies and corporations have come to OC Transpo/Transit Services to learn about the many successful security-related initiatives undertaken, specifically; Respectful Workplace training, the threat and risk assessment, emergency preparedness and response protocols. Transit management operations, maintenance and security personnel, along with strong union participation, have also presented at security/safety seminars and conferences by request, across the country.

In preparation for this report, a number of transit properties were contacted with the objective of obtaining comparable statistics. Although some were willing to share information on a confidential basis, we were not authorized to use the statistics for public comparison. The other difficulty is that transit properties record their data according to different provincial criteria, which make comparisons difficult or confusing at best.

A review of other major transit operations revealed, however, that the majority are experiencing similar security and safety issues. Riders in most major North American cities want assurance that they will be protected from violence. The posture and programs of different transit authorities varies from business-as-usual to highly proactive approaches.

The more proactive transit organizations have implemented a variety of security programs, much like Ottawa:

· Transit-system-wide application of integrated video surveillance technology.

· Highly visible uniformed officer programs.

· Extensive use of informational pamphlets and signage to educate the ridership on security measures.

· Well-developed school outreach programs to educate youth in urban areas.

· Community outreach programs delivered by transit management, security personnel and operators.

· Specific information regarding transit safety and security programs on the OC Transpo internet web site – www.octranspo.com, also linked to the City of Ottawa website www.ottawa.ca.

The Public’s Perception of Security on OC Transpo

Residents’ perceptions of the security of the transit system are very important in the development and retention of ridership. As a result of the recent media attention concerning security incidents on the City of Ottawa’s transit system, some residents may be less confident than they were. It is expected that the continued proactive commitment to transit security will allay most concerns.

Attitude surveys were carried out regularly from 1987 until 2001 to determine the views of residents (both transit users and non-users) about OC Transpo services. In the most recent survey, the number of Transitway users who said that they did not think the Transitway is a safe place to wait for a bus had reduced to 11.5%, compared with more than 20% ten years earlier. To give a specific, quantitative example of the relative safety of transit service, Route 85, which carries 7.5 million passengers a year had a total of six reported incidents of assaults, threats or robbery in 2003. This translates into a rate of 0.8 incidents per million passenger trips.

FUTURE SECURITY ENHANCEMENTS

Transit Services and Transit Security continue to introduce new programs, technology and initiatives to further enhance the safety of security in the transit system. Future plans include:

· Enhanced Conflict Resolution Skills – A module currently being developed in consultation with International Centre for Conflict Resolution and Mediation (ICCRM), the Community Peace Building Network program (page 5) will be delivered to all employees, including Transit Security personnel in early 2004.

· Additional CCTV installations - In 2004 at Terry Fox Station, Hurdman Station and Baseline Park & Ride; in 2005 at Lees, Queensway and Westboro Stations, and Tunney’s Station and Trim Road Park & Ride lot in 2006.

· Continued partnership building and development of strong working relationships with police, school boards and community groups through outreach programs and joint initiatives.

· Special Constable Status – Currently there is an application to Ottawa Police Service for Transit Law Enforcement Officers to be granted special constable status. If approved, this would ensure improved legislative authority, increased powers of arrest, and greater access and sharing of confidential information to improve operational effectiveness.

· Expanded Bait Car Program - After further evaluation by Police, the program may be expanded to other Park & Ride lots and areas of the city.

· Additional “Walk & Ride” Teams – As the transit service expands, future stations and additional buses will be required, resulting in the need for the deployment of additional TLEO “Walk & Ride” teams.

· Late night taxi connections – A new Transecure initiative will enable passengers traveling on the Transitway after midnight to request the bus operator call a taxi through Transit Operations to meet them at their destination station or park & ride.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

SUMMARY

The Transit Security service has increased four-fold in the past 25 years. In addition, more mobile security cars, central monitoring of more than 121 CCTV cameras, 241 emergency call boxes and numerous alarms at all stations and facilities have ensured prompt action and response to any security incident.

The installation of additional CCTV cameras in coming years, together with the introduction of GPS in buses and a number of other initiatives with Police and other agencies, will continue to ensure an effective and efficient system.

The safety and security of both the public and employees are major priorities.  Ottawa is a safe city and, as one of North America's safest transit systems, OC Transpo is committed to making transit safe and enjoyable.

ATTACHMENTS

Appendix “A” Transit Security Force Evolution

Appendix “B” Flowchart for Transit Security Control Assaults/Disturbances Procedures

Appendix “C” Transit Information/Statistics

Appendix “D” Transit Law Enforcement Officer (TLEO) Training

Appendix “E” Regional Regulatory Code
APPENDIX A

Date	Transit System Expansion/Milestones	Transit Security Evolution
1975 – 1982	OC Transpo consisted of 4 garages and Administration building. Pinecrest and Merivale garages opened in west	12 Property Protection Officers (PPO) hired to provide in-house security services for the facilities. Total complement – 15 PPO *comprised of 3 administrative personnel and 12 PPO
1983 - 1985	First sections of the Transitway opened in the east and west. Station openings include Baseline, Queensway, Lincoln Fields, Lebreton and Hurdman 1984 - Scott Street Transitway Station opened 1985 – Southeast Transitway from Mann Avenue to Mackenzie King Bridge opened	6 Officers hired in 1983 to enforce Regional Regulatory Code as it applies to Transit (Sections 3.2 Fares and Conduct and 3.3 Transitway) Total complement – 21 *comprised of 3 administrative personnel, 8 Transit Law Enforcement Officers (TLEO) and 10 PPO
1986 - 1987	East Transitway expanded St. Laurent and Train Stations opened Orleans and Baseline Park & Ride lots opened	2 TLEO hired for Transitway expansion Total complement – 23 *comprised of 3 administrative personnel, 10 TLEO and 10 PPO
1989 – 1991	Blair Station opened and Transitway extended Southeast Transitway from Hurdman to Riverside Hospital opened	4 TLEO hired for Transitway expansion. Total complement – 27 *comprised of 3 administrative personnel, 14 TLEO, 6 PPO, and 4 officers dedicated to a new Security Control Centre to coordinate response with Transit Operations
1992 – 1996	Orleans Station and Greenboro Park & Ride lot opened Southeast Transitway expanded from Billings Bridge to Hunt Club Eagleson Park & Ride lot opened 1996 – South Keys, Billings Bridge, and Pleasant Park Stations opened	6 TLEO hired for Transitway expansion and response to incidents off Transitway Total complement – 33 *comprised of 3 administrative personnel, 20 TLEO, 4 Security Controllers, and 6 PPO

APPENDIX A (cont’d)

Date	Transit System Expansion/Milestones	Transit Security Evolution
2000	Fallowfield Station and Park & Ride opened	8 TLEO hired to provide greater visible presence on the Transitway and system Total complement – 41 *comprised of 31 TLEO, 6 PPO, and 4 Security Controllers
2002	O-Train revenue service commenced Security Control Centre expanded and modernized incorporating latest technology	7 Officers hired. 5 dedicated to the Security Control Centre to provide 24/7 x 2 coverage and 2 TLEO dedicated to Light Rail operations Total complement – 51 *comprised of 1 Program Manager, 2 Superintendents, 33 TLEO, 6 PPO, and 9 Security Controllers

APPENDIX C

Transit Information / Statistics

Growth of Transit Services

	1999	2000	2001	2002	2003
Ridership (million)	74.5	80.7	84.7	86.7	87.8
Number of Buses/ O-Train	857	880	898 3	913 3	924 3
Number of Operators	1321	1345	1384	1402	1439
Number of Transitway/O‑Train Stations	26	29	34	34	34
Number of Park & Ride Lots	4	4	5	5	7

Ottawa Transit Security Statistics

	1999	2000	2001	2002	2003
Physical Assault	88	101	98	63	103
Robbery/Swarming	35	50	47	28	31
Sexual Assault	5	9	4	2	17
TOTALS	128	160	149	93	151
Rate: Incidents/ million trips	1.72	1.98	1.76	1.07	1.72

APPENDIX D

TRANSIT LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER (TLEO) TRAINING

Recruitment - all applicants must possess the Law & Security Administration Diploma (now called the Police Foundations Diploma). The 2-year diploma program is the first step in a career in policing in Ontario. Police Foundations is of interest to those who aspire to become police constables or work in a career in law enforcement. The program includes the following courses:

Canadian Criminal Justice System Issues in Diversity Criminal and Civil Law Interpersonal and Group Dynamics Contemporary Social Problems Criminology

Criminal Code Police Powers Interviewing and Investigations Youth in Conflict with the Law Provincial Offences Criminal Code and Federal Statutes

Investigation and Evidence Conflict Management

Training

Recruit Officer (PPO)	Orientation to Transit Services/Transit Security On the Job training with a Coach Officer (4 to 6 weeks)
Promotion to Security Control	On the Job Training of 4 to 6 weeks with a Coach Security Controller Emergency Response Communicator, a 2-day course given through Algonquin College specifically designed for OC Transpo Security Control personnel
Promotion to TLEO	On the Job training with a coach officer (4 to 6 weeks) Scenarios and evaluation Regional Regulatory Code training Court proceedings, evidence Coach's Corner (response protocols for TLEO and Transit Supervisors)

Training in 2003

Defibrillator/ First Aid/ CPR - Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to all staff

Driving Training (response, vehicle stops, etc.) - Fleet Services to all staff

Emergency Communications - Algonquin College for Security Controllers

Youth Court Justice Act - Ottawa Police Service

APPENDIX D (cont’d)

Baton and Self Defense - Algonquin College and Ottawa Police Service

Critical Incident Debriefing - Algonquin College to all TLEO Supervisors/ Superintendents

Coach's Corner - internal to all TLEO and Transit Supervisors re response protocols

Youth Gangs – Ottawa Police Service (NHO’s)

Power of Arrest – Ottawa Police Service

Ongoing Training

Defibrillator/ First Aid/ CPR - all staff as required for certification

Coach Officer Training - as required

Emergency Communications - as required

Baton and Self-Defense - annual certification

Coach's Corner - response protocols for TLEO and Transit Supervisors – as required

Critical Incident Debriefing - Working Supervisors TLEO as required

Canada Labour Code Part ll - Occupational Health and Safety - Working Supervisors and Occupational Health & Safety committee members

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) – all employees

Emergency Response Procedures - Fire & Building Evacuation Plan, Rail Emergency Response – internal, as required