Ontario Air Brake Program Implementation Continues

September 19, 2002

Implementation of the revised Ontario airbrake program continues September 23, 2002. After this date, drivers completing their knowledge tests for licence renewals or upgrades at a Ministry driver examination centre will have no choice but to take the new airbrake knowledge test.

This date marks the end of the ministry’s education period that was originally scheduled to end April 1 2002. The ministry has made further changes to the program to address concerns raised by the bus/transit industry.

Effective September 23, 2002, all deliverers will offer only the new 12-hour course except signing authorities delivering to class G, F, E, D, C and B licence holders, who will have the option of offering a modified program. The modifications include deletion of tractor-trailer elements from the learning outcomes, reduction to 10½ hours for delivery and a version 2 knowledge test that also excludes tractor-trailer items. Class A licence holders will be required to complete the full program and the version 1 airbrake knowledge test.

Through the driver examination centres the ministry will only offer Version 1 of the air brake knowledge test, but will continue to offer the old practical test until further notice. Implementation of additional program changes is expected early in 2003.

OTA is offering a new product specially designed to assist drivers who must renew their ‘Z’ endorsement. This is a 24 page booklet entitled “Practice Exams and Self-Study Guide”, product number PA105, that retails for $4.95. The booklet contains detailed instructions, self-study tips, 4 practice exams and exam answer keys. Drivers will find this item invaluable for refreshing their knowledge of airbrakes and familiarizing themselves with the content of the new airbrake exams.