WINNIPEG — Manitoba is introducing mandatory entry-level training for commercial truck drivers.
The move comes on the heels of the semi-trailer driver in the fatal Humboldt Broncos bus crash sentenced to eight years in prison last week.
Beginning September 1, requirements will include 121.5 hours of training, which the province says is consistent with other provinces including Alberta and Saskatchewan.
“Commercial truck drivers play an important role in moving our economy forward, and we are focused on ensuring they have the necessary skills and qualifications to do their job in a way that ensures everyone is safe on the road,” said Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler.
The province is holding off one year to implement the new training requirements for the agriculture sector until it finishes additional industry consultations. A phase-in strategy will be used to mitigate impacts on the start of the 2019 farming season.
Under present rules, a new truck driver isn’t required to take training prior to writing a knowledge-based written test and a practical road test to obtain a Class 1 license.
