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In a proactive move to bolster safety within the trucking sector, the Alberta government has unveiled significant reforms aimed at addressing concerns surrounding commercial driver training schools and questionable practices by certain operators. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance accountability and ensure the highest safety standards on Alberta’s roads.
Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshen emphasized the province’s commitment to rooting out reckless operators. He stated, “We will not tolerate those who cut corners or put unsafe vehicles on the road.” This highlights the determination to maintain Alberta’s reputation for having some of the most dependable truck drivers in Canada.
Increased enforcement and oversight measures
The new regulations include ramped-up enforcement efforts, such as comprehensive inspections and audits of both driver training schools and trucking carriers. The government has taken decisive actions, including the closure of five training facilities deemed unsafe.
These enforcement actions have also resulted in 39 disciplinary letters being issued, alongside over $100,000 in administrative penalties. Additional measures include six corrective action plans, the revocation of 12 instructor licenses, and four warning letters sent to driver examiners.
These actions reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring compliance with established safety standards.
Tackling misclassification of drivers
Another significant focus of these initiatives is the operation known as Drivers Inc., a scheme where companies misclassify drivers as independent contractors to sidestep payroll taxes and benefits.
This misclassification often leads to inadequate training and oversight, putting drivers at risk. In a recent operation conducted in July, 195 drivers were stopped for a status and classification check, revealing that 20% were suspected of being misclassified, including several temporary foreign workers.
Addressing unsafe companies and chameleon carriers
The crackdown has also extended to commercial trucking companies exhibiting poor performance and failing to meet safety standards. Thirteen companies have been removed from Alberta’s roads due to issues such as operating unsafe equipment and failing to meet mandatory regulations. Among those, seven were identified as chameleon carriers, entities that evade regulatory scrutiny by frequently changing their names or relocating.
In response to this issue, the Alberta government is collaborating with federal and provincial partners to develop a more robust enforcement framework that addresses these chameleon carriers across Canada. This includes efforts from the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators to establish a national database aimed at closing loopholes that currently allow carriers to exploit gaps in interprovincial data sharing.
Enhancing driver training standards
To elevate the standards of driver training, Alberta has recently introduced new requirements demanding a minimum of 125 to 133 hours of in-truck training—significantly exceeding the national entry-level training minimum. This change, implemented on April 1, includes stricter licensing requirements for training schools and mandatory safety equipment standards. Increased monitoring of instructors is also part of this initiative.
Looking ahead, by late 2025, Alberta aims to make driver experience records portable, meaning they will follow the driver rather than the company. This shift is expected to enhance transparency for employers and insurance providers, fostering a safer and more accountable environment within the trucking industry.
The Alberta government’s recent initiatives mark a pivotal step towards ensuring safety and integrity within the commercial trucking sector. By implementing strict regulations, enhancing oversight, and targeting bad practices, Alberta is committed to maintaining its standing as a province with reputable trucking professionals. As these measures take effect, the government anticipates a significant improvement in the safety and professionalism of the industry.
