Transit Code campaign aims to make buses safer for drivers and passengers

A new code of conduct is on the way for Halifax Transit passengers.

The Transit Code campaign, announced Monday by the Halifax Regional Municipality, is being introduced in an effort to “address passenger behaviours.”

“Halifax Transit has officially launched a guide for passenger conduct and passenger policies in an effort to help foster safety, courtesy and respect,” the municipality told HalifaxToday.ca.

According to a press release, the campaign hopes to, “highlight Halifax Transit’s zero-tolerance policies and practices regarding prohibited conduct including racism, discrimination, harassment, verbal and physical abuse, and other serious behaviours.”

The Transit Code also plans to raise awareness on guidelines for entry and exit, bags and backpacks, courtesy seats, and respecting the space and privacy of others.

The campaign includes eight rules related to respect, inclusivity and diversity, privacy, and safety protocols.

It remains unclear how the code will be enforced. The responsibility to police transit passengers has long been up to bus drivers themselves.

Issues around both passenger and driver conduct were highlighted earlier this year after Halifax Transit faced backlash for promoting a “Love in Transit” contest. The objective of the campaign sought to share stories of couples who found love while using the transportation service, with winners earning $50 in gift cards to local restaurants. 

“Although the goal of our campaign was to hear positive stories from you to lift our collective spirits as we approach Valentine’s Day, we recognize that some of you have taken offense and for that, we sincerely apologize. It was genuinely not our intention,” Halifax Transit said at the time.

The contest highlighted a common theme of women feeling unsafe on Halifax’s public transportation, with stories of harassment and assault while using the service.

“The Transit Code campaign was designed in response to conversations with operators and supervisors,” the municipality told HalifaxToday.ca. “The idea for a streamlined approach about how to address passenger behaviours has been in the works for a while, but the roll out was delayed – primarily due to COVID.” 

“The policies, guidelines and practices for this campaign represent an accumulation of comments and ideas from staff and passengers over time,” it added.

Halifax Transit will include signage at terminals and on buses, as well as digital ads and a printed transit code booklet for passengers. Transit terminal engagement events are also planned but have yet to be scheduled.

More information about the Transit Code campaign can be found here.