Assaults on TTC workers have risen in 2020
TORONTO, ONTARIO – Following the stabbing of a TTC worker on December 10 at the Scarborough Town Centre, Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 113, which represents 12,000 TTC workers, is asking all TTC fare collectors to stay in the collector’s booth for their protection unless they feel safe to leave.
The TTC must enforce it’s zero tolerance policy by implementing additional health and safety protections for workers who are at increased risk of violent attacks for simply doing their job.
“The assault of a TTC worker at Scarborough Town Centre yesterday was completely unacceptable,” said Carlos Santos, ATU Local 113 President. “Thankfully the injury is not life threatening and we wish our member a full recovery. It’s outrageous that public transit workers who are already putting themselves and their loved ones at risk by working during the coronavirus pandemic, are subjected to increased assaults, abuse and threats from members of the public. We need the TTC to step up and do more to protect its workers.”
Assaults and abuse of TTC workers by members of the public have increased in 2020. The latest numbers show that there are more than two incidents of assault or abuse a day.
“Fare collectors should be allowed to stay in the booth if that’s what makes them feel safe,” said Carlos Santos. “This is an important health and safety measure that will protect workers from assaults and COVID-19.”