With accidents on rise, private snow-removal operators in Quebec pledge to ramp up training

The association representing Quebec'sprivate snow-removal contractors says it will have a new training programin place before next winter amid concerns about a rise in accidents.

MarioTrudeau, the head of the association, admits there's a lack of training in his industry, and he said navigating busy streets and sidewalks can be a challenge for drivers.

"City workers are employed year-round. Private contractors, in two months' time, they'll lose more than half of their employees for the year," Trudeau said.

He said it's impossible to ask private contractors to invest heavily in workers who will be laid off come springtime.

Trudeaumade the comments Monday following a report in the Journal de Montreal pointing to a lack of oversight and training for new drivers.

No special requirements

Private companies do about 50 per cent of the snow clearing on Montreal city streets.They're responsible for their own equipment, hiring and safety standards.

As it stands, private contractors aren't required to offerspecialized training: All you need isa drivers' licenceto operate a snowplow.

Unionizedcity employeeshave much stricter guidelines, even though theydrive the same kinds of machines.

City workers who operate snow-removal equipment have to undergo major training, says Hans Marotte, a spokesperson for Montreal'sblue collar workers union, CUPELocal 301.

"You have to pass some tests to be sure that you can do the job right."

Tighter rules coming

MayorValriePlantesaid the city is considering including conditions in its call for tenders to make sure private operators make safety a priority.

"I'm dedicatedto reinforcing training to make sure that's it's the same thing across the [board]," she said.

"Ultimately, we don't want to put anyone's security in danger."

In a statement, Quebec Transport MinisterFranois Bonnardelsaidlaws and regulations must be respected by all companies, and contractors are no exception.

Transport Canada has committed to tightening rules aroundcommercial vehicle operators, he noted.

"The Quebec government is aware that there is room for improvement and is participating in this ongoing work," the minister said in the statement.