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"Pay before you pump" important milestone on road to full regulations for gas station, convenience store workers working alone
October 20, 2006
Vancouver --Today's announcement by WorkSafeBC that "Pay Before You Pump" regulations will go to public hearing before the end of the year are an important milestone in the fight for full protection for those working alone in gas stations and convenience stores says B.C. Federation of Labour President Jim Sinclair, and a tribute to the courage and initiative of the Grant Depatie family.
"This step is due to the tireless efforts of the Depatie family to reduce the risk of another tragedy like the one that took the life of their son Grant," Sinclair said. "It opens the door to stronger regulations to provide real protection for those working alone at night. The Depatie's deserve the thanks of working people for the campaign they have undertaken."
Sinclair said the Federation believes further regulations, including requirements to have workers employed in pairs and behind secure windows after 10:00 p.m., should be referred to public hearings in the New Year.
"The hearings announced today deal with the request of the Labour Minister for action," Sinclair said, "but cannot be the end of the effort to ensure real safety for these workers."
"We all know this is only the first step."
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