PSA MEETS WITH OFFICER IN CHARGE OF TRAFFIC SUPPORT BRANCH

On Friday 3 July 2009 PSA Industrial Officer, Ted Szarek, met with the Officer in Charge of Traffic Support Branch to discuss operational safety issues affecting our members working at the Traffic Camera Unit.

The operational safety issues previously raised in the PSA letter to SAPOL dated 2 April 2009 were discussed. These issues are:

• Protective security film for the windows of camera cars.

• Use of roadside camera signs.

• Setting up and operating the tripod.

The PSA stated that members were frustrated with the long delay and that if no progress is made soon PSA members may consider work bans/limitations.

A commitment was given at the meeting to provide a written response to the PSA within 14 days regarding the operational safety issues raised. The PSA advised that the response needed to clearly state whether the security film has been approved and what the roll out plan will be including time lines for the fitting to vehicles. The roll out plan should also include the plan for new/replacement vehicles as they come on line.

Some general discussion occurred about the working conditions for camera operators. It was stated that TCU was often raised at the Traffic Support Branch managers' meetings and the importance of their role in the overall policing strategy was acknowledged. PSA asked whether this had been communicated effectively to the members.

The meeting concluded with a confirmation that a written response would be sent within 
14 days and this would also be followed up with a phone response to the PSA.

PSA WORKING FOR MEMBERS