More Transpo Horror Stories From AG’s Report

“A lack of documented procedures can lead to confusion, inefficiencies, and inconsistencies in operations. In some cases, the lack of standard expectations could lead to safety risks of buses.”

Auditor general’s report on OC Transpo bus maintenance

Process documentation is not always available or sufficiently detailed.

From our work across the several areas we investigated, we found a consistent theme where process documentation was not always available or where available, was not sufficiently detailed. At times we received inconsistent information, demonstrating a lack of knowledge and standardization. We often received verbal information based on historical knowledge where documented procedures would have better provided a more reliable reference point.

Feedback from some OC Transpo bus maintenance staff indicated there were areas where they felt they were not always provided concrete directives, policies, and procedures to guide their work.

Additionally, we noted that there were instances where activities were undertaken differently across the different garages (e.g., vendor outsourcing and monitoring). As an example, we understand that the outer kilometer limit for the NOVA bus preventative maintenance inspections has recently changed; however, this was not formally documented nor officially communicated.

A lack of documented procedures can lead to confusion, inefficiencies, and inconsistencies in operations. In some cases, the lack of standard expectations could lead to safety risks of buses.

Bus maintenance records are not consistently stored electronically, increasing the risk of misplaced files.

During our investigation, we noted that files such as inspection check sheets are primarily paper-based and stored physically onsite at the garages. While M5 has the capability to attach files to the electronic work order, we found that this functionality was rarely used. As part of our detailed testing, we observed two (2) instances where files were misplaced or lost. Maintaining paper-based records increases the risk that they may be misplaced, lost, or destroyed impacting the ability to prove work was completed. As part of the Bus Maintenance Action Plan, management has indicated it will be implementing upgrades to M5 and investing in a new yard management system software. We understand this could result in direct documentation of maintenance activities within the electronic system.

For You:

Transit System Gruesomely Slow: PATTON

City LRT Is Just A Tramway In Disguise: BENN

Contractor Bus Maintenance Safety Faulty: AG

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