United Transportation Union

Report of Engine Cab Condition Committee Meeting,
0930, Sept 30, 1998, Squamish

by

Attendance

Harry Ulch provided videos on crawler-grader level / tilt indicator technology that could be modified to send a signal in the event of an engine tipping or colliding. After review and discussion, the committee felt that this technology did not meet our needs.

A discussion arose regarding the effectiveness of any system that sent a signal in the event of an emergency rather than a device that sent a signal constantly and indicated an emergency in the absence of a signal.

Don Griffin presented information on GPS system similar to use in taxi cabs. A system great for locating engines, but does not indicate an emergency.

Don Griffin indicated that a new service exists that is designed to indicate rough joints, tip or impact damage to high-value loads, as well as GPS. Apparently CP has ordered 80 self contained units for some of their auto racks. Apparently, the service costs $50 US per unit, and is monitored by satellite from the company's home base. Response to indications above predetermined thresholds can be as quick as one to three minutes. There may be an opportunity to cost share this service with the mechanical department. The company providing this service is to give a presentation to the executive soon. Don Griffin will attend and report back to the committee.

David Moorhouse asks the committee if they see a conflict of interest if he remains as UTU South rep. now that he holds the position as Council of Trade Unions Safety Advisor.

The management committee constituents consider it an internal union matter. However, Ron Restrick, speaking as the CUTE representative to the CTU, believes that Dave sitting on this committee is contrary to the intention of the terms of reference for his position, and may damage his credibility as Safety Advisor if a union / management conflict arose within the committee.

Dave resolves to consult with his union executives and resolve the issue before the committee meets again.

Have purchased 8001 - 2 - 3. Two are now in the backshop. These units have a stariwell leading to the front hood, which houses the toilet, oven, sink, and baggage storage. Due to the floor space taken up by the stairwell, there is no intention to install a third seat. Other amenities will be similar to committee-approved modifications on our other units.

Estimated cost for relocating toilet to radiator compartment in rear is about $25,000. This is considered too expensive. It appears that there is no solution to creating more room other than to revert to Ministry-approved piano-stool seating.

Committee agreed to wait until next meeting when we will know how long we will be keeping these units, then determine the level of investment depending of the length of time they will remain in service.

Twenty two headsets ordered for testing, which will be distributed to testers upon arrival. Jacks installed on one Dash 8 and one Dash 7 so far.

User feedback form will be provided to testers. D. Moorhouse to send copies of blank form to Rob Pasowicz.

There was a desire within the committee to explore music capability in the future.

640's All are for sale. Two are now in movie service

ELECTRIC ENGINES Modifications depend on future business levels.

Meeting adjourned 1345