Halifax bus drivers refused work during a summer heat wave, citing broken AC units and health risks. Union pushes for urgent repairs and safety measures.
Halifax Drivers Cite Unsafe Conditions
Halifax Transit bus drivers have begun refusing to work during the city’s summer heat wave, pointing to widespread air conditioning failures across the fleet. The Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) says extreme cabin heat has caused headaches, heat exhaustion, and even hospital visits for operators.
Heat Wave Worsens Longstanding Issues
While broken AC systems have been a recurring concern, this year’s prolonged stretch of high temperatures has turned the problem into a health and safety crisis. ATU Local President Patricio Garcia estimates that between 50 to 60 per cent of buses experienced AC breakdowns at some point this summer, overwhelming the contractor tasked with servicing the units.
Union Raises Health and Safety Concerns
According to Garcia, several drivers were forced to seek emergency care, while others invoked occupational health and safety rights to refuse work on dangerously hot days. He noted that drivers often required extended breaks at air-conditioned bus terminals to cool down, leading to delays and occasional service disruptions.
Halifax Transit Responds
Patricia Hughes, director of planning for Halifax Transit, acknowledged the problem but downplayed the overall impact on passengers. She told the city’s transportation committee that standby buses have covered route gaps, preventing what she described as “significant” service disruptions. The cooler temperatures this week have also eased immediate pressures.
City Officials Seek Solutions
Council members have requested a detailed staff report on Halifax Transit’s air conditioning systems, including the number of working units, repair turnaround times, and whether windows can be opened on all buses. Coun. Trish Purdy, who called for the report, said rider and driver complaints about overheated buses have been persistent.
Broader Transit Challenges
The AC failures come as Halifax Transit faces wider performance issues. While ridership rose 7 per cent last year to 32.3 million trips, bus punctuality has dropped for the fourth straight year, with on-time performance now at 71 per cent—well below the city’s 85 per cent benchmark. Hughes said increasing traffic congestion remains the biggest barrier to reliable service.
Looking Ahead
Major improvements to the fleet’s cooling systems are unlikely before next summer, the union noted. In the meantime, Halifax Transit is gathering public feedback for its 2025-27 service plan, which may include new routes and expanded rapid transit lanes. Residents can submit input through the city’s website until September 28, with in-person pop-ups scheduled at bus terminals starting this weekend.
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