On Time Running and You

For the longest time, the responsibility for on time running has been put onto the bus driver. While is some cases it may be within our control, most times it’s not. Below are some of the times of when operators have NO control of OTR:

• Insufficient running time on actual routes (not only for the actual route but the time required to get to the starting point)
• Being held up by passengers for longer than normal at a bus stop (eating into the already insufficient running time)
• The unpredictable traffic conditions we face everyday.

Bus Companies are happy to push that responsibility onto drivers while at the same time cutting back our work and often not supporting drivers in the face of complaints. The way to fight this is in your hands!

• Do not put yourself in a position where you’re doing the company favours.
• If a trip hasn’t got enough time, then it runs late. (Note on your journal late running due to safe driving practices)
• Ensure you take your standing time or take breaks when required (this is to ensure the safety of one’s self). You need to keep track on your journal of any changes to your running times so you can refer to it later when asked.

Your responsibility is to make sure everyone gets from point A to point B with safety being your highest priority. If that means you run late then that’s what happens. As a driver, your responsibility is to leave the depot on time, what happens after this is often not in your control. Nobody will thank you for stressing yourself out or causing yourself an injury because you’re madly trying to keep a trip to time. Your job is to safely transport people on the bus including yourself.

We need to stop thinking that by pushing ourselves the company will give us a pat on the back; the company will discipline you if you are caught taking shortcuts.

We need to stop doing the companies favours because they sure as hell don’t do any for us.