BC Ferries bans aggressive passenger from travel for one year

BC Ferries has enforced its zero-tolerance policy for abuse of its employees by issuing a one-year travel ban to a passenger who aggressively drove his motor vehicle towards an employee at the Langdale terminal on the morning of Oct. 15.

The company has issued multiple one-year travel bans to passengers in the past two weeks alone.

On Oct. 15, a passenger left their assigned lane and aggressively drove towards a staff member at the Langdale terminal, forcing the employee to jump out of the way. On Oct. 17 a passenger threatened the use of a fire arm to an employee at the Horseshoe Bay terminal. On Oct. 22, a passenger assaulted an employee on the Coastal Celebration.

“We are committed to providing our employees and passengers a safe and respectful environment,” said Mark Collins, BC Ferries’ President & CEO. “The vast majority of our passengers treat our employees courteously. Abusive conduct or comments, or behaviours that put our employees or the public at risk, are not tolerated. These behaviours result in a denial of service, travel ban and the involvement of police agencies.”

BC Ferries says all workers have the right to a work environment that is respectful and free from harassment or harm. It is committed to prevention of violence in its workplace.

To protect the health, safety, security and comfort of its passengers and crew, the law allows BC Ferries the right to refuse passage. BC Ferries has security on board its vessels and at terminals when needed, and contacts police whenever their assistance is required.