PASSENGER CODE OF CONDUCT TO WELCOME ALL METRO PASSENGERS

Media Release - 26 February 2008

A passenger Code of Conduct for all people travelling on Metro buses was officially launched today by Metro and the Tasmanian Branch of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union.

The passenger Code of Conduct is one of four initiatives being introduced by Metro and the union designed to make bus travel safer and more comfortable for drivers and passengers.

Metro Chief Executive Officer Tony Sim said the Code of Conduct was jointly developed by Metro and the union as part of an agreement between the two parties.

"The Code is a public document to be displayed on all buses to inform passengers about the behaviour that is expected of them when travelling on a Metro bus," he said.

"Metro and our drivers already understand the importance of good behaviour on buses."

"Our drivers commit to operating Metro buses in a safe and appropriate manner at all times, with passenger safety of paramount importance."

"It is only fair and reasonable then that passengers agree to observe six key points outlined in the Code."

Rail, Tram and Bus Union State Secretary Sam Simonetis said the joint initiative was a very positive first step.

"Metro and the union are committed to working together to improve passenger behaviour and safety on Metro buses," she said.

"We are confident that the Code of Conduct, developed by a committee comprising union, driver and Metro management members, will lead to significant behavioural change over time."

"Our drivers are very strong on this issue – it is important that all bus users appreciate and understand the benefits of good behaviour and good habits."

"The union and drivers want Metro services to operate safely and efficiently and recognise that all parties – Metro, the union, drivers and passengers – have a role to play in achieving this."

The passenger Code of Conduct to be displayed in all buses, and which has the support of Tasmania Police, states:

• Metro bus operators are professional drivers, trained to ensure your journey is comfortable, safe and on time. Please treat them with respect.
• Do not distract the driver’s attention, move around the bus unnecessarily or engage in unsafe behaviour.
• Bad language and antisocial behaviour is not acceptable on Metro buses. Offending passengers may be asked to leave. Police may be called to assist and you may be prosecuted or banned from catching Metro buses.
• Video cameras may operate on or around this bus and antisocial incidents may be recorded and handed to police.
• Smoking is not permitted on the bus.
• Food, beverages or alcohol must not be consumed on the bus.

Other safety initiatives being introduced include driver aggression awareness training, developed in conjunction with Tasmania Police, driver protective screens fitted to new buses due to be trialled from April this year and video cameras fitted to all Metro buses by the end of July 2008.

Released By: Nicholas Turner
Tel: 6210 5206
Mobile: 0418 538 865