Image Credit: CFJC Today / Kent Simmonds

By Aaron Schulze

CVSE Officer Assaulted

Union representing CVSE officers calls for improved safety measures after Kamloops weigh scale assault

Jan 28, 2025 | 10:33 AM

KAMLOOPS — An assault in Kamloops has the union representing Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement (CVSE) officers calling on the B.C. government to improve their safety.

While an investigation into an arson attack on a CVSE weigh scale facility in Prince George in December 2024 is still ongoing, the B.C. General Employees Union (BCGEU) says a CVSE officer was assaulted on the job in Kamloops last week.

A statement from BCGEU communications says a CVSE officer asked for a driver’s logbook when he stopped at the scale, which he provided via his cellphone. However, the driver then told the officer he wanted his cell phone back even though the officer was not finished looking at the logbook.

According to the union, the driver jumped out of his truck and assaulted the officer.

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While she couldn’t confirm the employment of the victim, Kamloops RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Crystal Evelyn confirmed to CFJC Today that an assault took place on the 2600-block of Trans Canada Highway West, where the Kamloops Westbound CVSE Inspection Station is located, at around 11:35 a.m. Thursday (Jan. 23). Evelyn says a man was arrested then released, and charge recommendations are expected.

“These workers are subjected to escalating violence and intimidation while simply trying to keep our roads safe for all users, and we need immediate action from the government to address this growing risk,” BCGEU President Paul Finch states. “CVSE Workers are essential to the safety of our roads, but their own safety is being compromised. The government must act swiftly to ensure they are properly protected.”

In a news release issued Monday (Jan. 27), the BCGEU says CVSE officers have consistently reported their vehicles and worksites being targets of violence. Additionally, the union says CVSE officers are experiencing inadequate training, unreliable and outdated communication systems, solo work in isolated areas and a lack of proper reporting protocols.

The BCGEU is calling on the province to upgrade communications systems, improve training protocols and provide CVSE officers with the resources necessary to carry out their duties.

The Ministry of Transportation and Transit was contacted for comment and provided the following statement: ‘The ministry and CVSE continue to explore and implement safety improvements for officers and staff, including new training, communication tools and technology, and collaboration with safety partners.’

The statement also acknowledges that CVSE has regional and provincial Occupational Health and Safety committees to facilitate discussions around safety concerns.

with files from Victor Kaisar/CFJC Today