2 Road Runner Winter 1992/93

Index "Wee Jimmy Davison and the Robson Ferry...... p 4 The Stena Danica Affair...... p 5 In the Field...... p 6 lotro... Your Fan Mail P 11 Cycling B.C. a Success p 12 Share-the-Road-Runner Program A Day in the Worklife p 13 We'll keep bringing you the Road Runner but to meet cost-cutting commitments, it is now only one colour and we're printing less copies. Until further notice, that Service Excellence means we're on a share-the-Road-Runner program, as suggested by one of our Update p 14 own "MoTHonians." Thanks for the idea. It's Your Serve p 16 In this issue, catch up on the latest and greatest. Find out about the "Stena Personnel Connection Danica affair." See what the Gas.Ex exploder we've been talking about looks like. Editor: Barb Romanaki p 18 Meet the people who operate the MY Omenica Princess. Learn about "dynamic pile driving." All thanks to staff who sent in so many stories we couldn't use them all. What is Service We've reserved space in the Spring Road Runner for them. Excellence Anyway? ...... P 21

In the Spotlight...... P 22 Take Your Best Shot Contest Growing Roads?!!? p 23 We need good in-action shots as on page 23, Growing Roads??!!??, of our people WIM Stripping p 24 working. So, to get you going, we will give the photographer of the best shot in the next issue a surprise prize. PIOs excluded. Bridges in Bulk...... p 25 Toy Intersection Deadline for the next Road Runner , February 26, 1993 Educates Kids p 26 Inland Ferry Standards Review p 27 In Trust Many people throughout the ministry have enquired about a "Memorial Fund" for Shannon Guyatt's (who was slain last summer) son Jason. Shannon's parents have responded by establishing a "Continuing Education Fund" for Jason. Contributions are confidential and can be made in a number of ways. By ROAD RUNNER cheque: please make payable to "Mr. C. Underwood in Trust for Jason Guyatt" and forward to one of the contacts below. For details on cash, anonymous or other Road Runner is the employee contributions, consult the contacts below. Donations can also be made directly magazine for the British Columbia through any Canada Trust branch in B.C. by quoting Branch #200 and Account Ministry of Transportation and Number 552394. Highways. It is produced quarterly. Yourgenerosity is appreciated by the entirefamily. Published articles appearing in Road HQ Contacts: Runner may be reprinted only with the permission of the Editor. MarilynWargo, Personnel Services Branch, 387-7822 Direct enquiries to: Barb Romanaki, Personnel Services Branch, 387-1483 Kris Aitken Jeanne Pittman, Public Affairs Branch, 387-7788 Road Runner Editor Louise Graham, Executive Branch, 356-0397 Public Affairs 5B-940 Blanshard Street Peter James, Information Systems Branch, 387-0144 Victoria, BC, V8W3E6

Cover photo by Bill Dunn Story p.27 Road Runner Winter 1992/93 3

On the Road Island Trust Making Friends in Africa New Deal "It' s a civilized change in direc­ By Margie Sinclair, Kelowna Sub-Office tion," commented one Vancouver Island newspaper.

It was a "field trip " of a lifetime. I spent Our minister, Art Charbonneau and 18 days at a bush hospital in Uganda and Chair of the Islands Trust Council, went on safari in Kenya. Carol Martin, signed an agreement November 12th which provides I didn't plan the trip. A friend who works unique standards for Gulf Island at a hospital and orphanage in Uganda roads. The agreement was made in (which Margie supports) invited me to visit. response to residents' concerns that Being an adventuresome person, I jumped roads being built for new subdivi­ at the opportunity. sions were straight, treeless and with The adventure started after flying from wide ditches replacing the winding, Kelowna to Vancouver to London to tree-shaded lanes once characteristic Nairobi, Kenya ... then on to Entebee, of the islands. Uganda. Driving the roads in Africa was an "We also are establishing a consul­ experience I'll never, EVER forget. The tative process between our agencies," roads were like riverbeds; driving was on said Charbonneau. "We have set up a the opposite side of the road. formal process for planning and Driving an unfamiliar vehicle on an administering most aspects of road equally unfamiliar road (saying to myself transportation, which allows input by "Is this a road ... Wow, look at those Uganda road creui at zvork--They snapped advisory committees on each island. " holes .. . Watch out folks. " and in first gear when Margie snapped. "I'm pleased Islands Trust and the all the way I ran into (not literally) a ministry are working together to Uganda road crew. And, at great risk , ensure road construction and rnainte­ snapped a picture to bring back to MoTH. Actually, I found the people very friend­ ly. Now that I'm back home, I realize what nance on the islands is compatible I forgot to ask permission first. When I with Trust's legislated mandate 'to a wonderful opportunity I'd been given to snapped the picture, the response from the live and work with native Africans rather preserve and protect' the unique crew was unprintable, not in English any­ amenities and environment of the than just being a tourist. way. Trust Area," said Martin. Another thing I realize: we are privileged Margie with [riends-i-Discussing a to live in Canada and to have such a good subdivision/rezoning application. road system. Two EITs Awarded Congratulations to Maurizio T.L. Ponzini and Dennis]. Nadon-two of the ministry 's Engineers-in­ Training (EIT) who both received achievement awards from the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia. Maurizio was recognized for having the greatest potential in the Civil Engineering class at the University of British Columbia and Dennis for the greatest potential in the Computer Engineering class at the University of Victoria. 4 Road Runner Winter 1992/93 "Wee" Jimmy Davison and the Robson Ferry

By Tom W. Parkin) Public Information Officer) Vancouver Island

he devastating floods in British Captain at that time was "wee" Jimmy fun by the kids: "There was a tug called Columbia in the spring of 1948 are Davison, whose career extended from 1919 Elko, that used to tow log booms between well remembered by Fred Thompson, to 1951. Short in stature, but never in words, the Arrow Lakes and a mill downstream. If now working on Nanaimo's regional the diminutive Scot exemplified service the river happened to be low, and the ferry design team. That year he was 11, and living excellence. Fred recalls how he ran his ship: mid-stream, occasionally the tug would snap in a home on the bank of the Columbia "At night, pedestrians signaled the ferry the ferry cable. When this happened, the tug had to rescue the drifting ferry. It never hap­ River at Robson. on the far side by flashing a light on a pole. pened when I was aboard, but I always "My family had to move to Nelson for The skipper would come over to get you. wished it would." three months to live with my grandmother. He would also back up for foot passengers We lost many of our belongings to the fast­ if you arrived just after he had left. This was The Robson ferry was decommissioned in rising water. The basement was filled with greatly appreciated as it could be very cold 1988, ending 69 years of service at the cross­ silt, frogs and tree stumps. " waiting in rain, wind or snow." ing. Today, drivers reach the far side via Hugh Keenleyside Dam or Highway 3A. A Fred's recollections were triggered by an It was also likely Jimmy who once fished bridge has been designed to span the aerial photograph of his former home, locat­ Fred out of the drink: "I was with a bunch Columbia near the old crossing, with con­ ed just downstream from a ministry cable of eager beavers going to a matinee in struction to start in January 1993. ferry. As readers can see (picture below), Castlegar. I was jacking around and fell off vehicles weren't able to get on the ferry dur­ the apron. Someone threw me a life ring and pulled me aboard." ing the high water. The ferry powered itself Castlegar/Robson cable ferry during 1948 along a single cable which wound around a That was scary, Fred admits, but another flooding on Columbia River-vehicles drum in the central powerhouse. concern of the ferry operator was viewed as weren't able to get on the ferry.

------=-==------_ ...... _------~ Road Runner Winter 1992/93 5

Bob Strachan, a true politician, had arisen The Stena Danica Affair early to polish his appearance and his knowledge of the tax problem prior to our 10:00 a.m. meeting. In his haste, he had However, to comply with federal regula­ A toothsome tale in which dropped his dentures into the sink and tions it was necessary to pay the duty on Al Rhodes) retired acting deputy when he picked them up they were in entry to Canada and to seek a remission by minister and admin ADM) pieces. He had already arranged by tele­ formal application. The federal government fondly (and humorously) phone to have them repaired by a dental reneged on the previous agreement and as mechanic, but having exhausted his cash the remembers Minister Bob Strachan the amount was substantial, multiple dis­ previous evening he didn 't have cab fare. and the "Siena Danica" import cussions ensued. He was soon on his way to the mechan­ duty affair (back in the days With the change in government in 1972, ic's office and his dentures were fixed in when B.C. Ferries came under R.M. (Bob) Strachan was appointed as time for the meeting. the Department ofHighways). Minister of Highways. He undertook the task of recovering the amount in question The meeting progressed in true federal and arra nge ments were rna de to visit fashion with the Revenue Minister In the late 1960s , it was evident that the Ottawa and present our case. (Sta n b u ry) and his a rm y of assistants , demand for ferry service necessitated addi­ lawyers and accountants, always promising The minister, myself and two others from tional vessels. As a "quick fix" the govern­ but never delivering. We did have some the Ministry of Finance arrived in Ottawa in ment made a policy decision to purchase a light moments however, for every time I the late afternoon and following dinner we vessel and to modify it to end-loading so looked at my minister he would tap his visited a lounge in the Bytown District. Mr. that it could operate at the existing docks. teeth with his index finger. Following a search for available vessels, the Strachan had a penchant for Scottish songs "Ste n a Danica" was purchased from its and he led the singing into the wee hours Bob Strachan, always a gentleman and Swedish owners with the understanding of the morning. We eventually retired but diplomat, later moved to the new Ministry with the Federal government that it would the night was short! My telephone began of Transportation and Communications and be exempt of import duties and taxes. ringing before 7:00 a.m. subsequently retired to accept the appoint­ ment as Agent General in London, England, an appointment which-in n1Y opinion-he really deserved. Al retired in 1985) after 45 years service The Reflector in the provincial gooernment. Inland Ferry History

Most North Americans take the ease of travel in the 90s for granted. It used to be a challenge to get to town for supplies-sometimes even dangerous, especially if you had to cross a river or lake. Log rafts and aerial baskets were the first ferries in B.C. When rivers froze, ice bridges were created. Sometimes, there was a ferry operator. Most often, the raft or rigging was left for those wishing to cross to use themselves. Frank Clapp, a retired ministry employee, tells all this and more in an interesting booklet that traces the history of B.C. inland ferries. If your office or branch doesn't have a copy, and you 'd like a cou­ ple, please call your Public Information Officer.

Free cable ferry that once crossed the Columbia River between Revelstoke and Arrowhead. Picture taken in the early 60s.

Photo from Provincial Archives 6 Road Runner Winter 1992/93

IN THE FIELD HallolNeenie Day Elfie Marsh (back row startingfrom left), Linda Frederick, Sandy Bertrand, Elaine Ullrich, Dixie The office was alive with gremlins, Bower and Val Fabick. Front row: Len Klassen, ghosts, witches and other chilling char­ Denise Willment, Sheila Keough, Iris Schoen acters when staff celebrated Halloweenie and Leslie Poznikoff. REGION 1 Day on Friday , Octo­ ber 30. Capping the festivities was a Halloweenie (hotdog sale) lunch hour. The Grassroots Action sale helped raise at its Best cash for our social Commuters on the Cassiar Connector fund. Congrats to our witnessed a strange phenomenon in very social Denise October and ovember: children clad in Willment for organiz­ ministry safety vests planting trees. ing yet another, this The project: the Rotary Heritage Forest. time eerily, success­ The result: the largest urban reforestation ful event. project ever undertaken in the City of Vancouver-the planting of almost 6,000 trees by students from 42 elementary schools in Vancouver and Burnaby. The effort, co-ordinated by the Vancouver HighlNays Breaks Bread \Nith Media South Rotary Club with the support of 11 by Stan R. Kravetz Communications Centre Operator other clubs in Vancouver and Burnaby, received widespread sponsorship from the Stalls ... debris spills ... motor vehicle out the welcome mat for a luncheon date private and public sectors. accidents, are quite often the order of the with the reporters. Preparations began after The Rotary Heritage Forest was dedicat­ day for Lower Mainland commuters. Rush morning rush hour with Keith's infamous ed at a special ceremony, November 3rd. hour ... for the Communications Centre is clam chowder, with buns and butter on the Hat's off to the Rotary Club for making this calls from radio station traffic reports, be side. The first of our ten guests arrived at tremendous initiative possible. Very special they high overhead or firmly on the noon, with the rest not far behind. For thanks to Vancouver South Rotarians ground. Mornings and afternoons, dedicat­ some of the media, this visit allowed them Donna Worrall, Clive Justice and Cecil ed men and women hit their speed dialers a first-hand opportunity to see the work Prowse-they made this project happen. in a round of random checks for traffic done in the Communications Centre. flow updates on major Lower Mainland In 2010, as you drive through the Cassiar "Service Excellence" was at the forefront: routes and bridges. Calls to the Connector and see the new forest growth, Communication Centre operators and traffic Communications Centre are in rapid suc­ please think of this Rotary-inspired under­ reporters work hand-in-hand to provide cession with most radio stations calling taking and say, "Thank you. " accurate traffic information to the public. approximately every 12 minutes. They are, indeed, friends of the hundreds Friday , October 16, yours truly, with col­ of thousands of rush hour commuters in Children planting trees along Cassiar leagues Keith Winsor and Kim Seale , rolled the Lower Mainland. Connector

Angie, CFVRlSTAR­ FM; Delann, CHRX; Kerry, CFVRlSTAR-FM; Kim, Comm Centre; judith, CK~' joanna, CISUZ-95 FM; Pam, CKNW; Katie, CK~' Stan, Comm Centre; Shawn CKNW; Erin, Shawn's daughter; jamie, CKNW; Keith, Comm Centre; Terri, CHQM. Road Runner Winter 1992/93 7

Meeting our Clients area and then pushing debris from the top IN THE FIELD October and December saw Tom Tasaka of the slide down to the catch basin where and his Barnet/Hastings People Moving it is trucked away to a disposal site. Project team hold meetings with interested Approximately 80 working days have been residents and merchants on the Hastings designated for this work. Corridor and in Port Moody. Barnet/Hastings is a first for the ministry: new lane capacity REGION 3 will be dedicated to high-occupancy vehicles (transit and carpoolers) during morning and afternoon weekday peak periods. \Nelcorne Back Electrical District November, Doug Hyde and his team held a drop-in on U.S. Election Night to show our The beginning of November, Region 3's plans to upgrade two intersections in electrical services (which had been priva­ Burnaby along Canada Way. An interesting tized along with maintenance services) , piece of trivia: Burnaby, home to our region rejoined the ministry. The Kootenay region office, became a City in September, 1992, in was the only region where highways elec­ honour of its Centennial year. trical services was contracted out. BEL November also took our Senior Planning Power had a three-year contract which ended October 12th. All former BEL Power Engineer, Maria Swan, to a public forum Jean Loewen and Shirley Krasniule, organized by the North Delta Ratepayers employees are now part of MoTH and will Clerks at the Coquihalla Toll Plaza) be based at regional office in Nelson. Association to discuss future plans for the lending a helping hand during extension of Nordel Way through Delta, remedial work on the approach panels Surrey and into Langley. to the Plaza. True to Scale This input helps us move to a "win-win" situation between people directly impacted A local hobbyist-Ben Eales of Alter­ by our projects and the need to resolve out­ natek Model Makers, New Denver-did a Bridging the Gap standing transportation problems in scale model of the proposed Castlegar Robson Bridge for a public open house, the region. Look out Island Highway here comes the November 26. It was so true to scale that Okanagan Lake lobby group. If you haven't one man was amazed to see his house with already heard about concerns over the his car parked in front-not only was the Okanagan Lake Bridge you'll soon hear house a match but the color of his car was about Citizens' for Road Safety-they aim correct too. REGION 2 to bridge the ga p for traffic across the Okanagan Lake. Staff from this region "I think it's just great," Castlegar resident Burt Campbell said (in a local newspaper). Safety and Consultation recently attended a community meeting on November 10 to discuss ministry plans for "I think (the Ministry of Transportation and Standing at the base of the Mara Lake the bridge as well as listen to pu blic con­ Highways) met the concerns of the com­ slide site, looking up, you'll see tons of cerns and innovative solutions. Thanks to munity. " rock, dirt and debris sitting precariously, the help of Barry Tait , a COITIITIUnity radio The Castlegar Rob son Bridge project is waiting to fall. Something had to be done, station talk show hose th e meeting went currently out to tender. Rocky Vanlerberg, which is why Highway 97A has been under off without to o much eg g throwing. The Project Manager said,"Th e ministry ha s daily road closures since mid October. The biggest realization for mo st of the partici­ prepared two bridge designs-one in con­ road closures were not initiated without pants-lobby for funding! crete and one in steel-so that both indu s­ public consultation. tries could bid on the project. " Two public meetings were held at both Ed.Note: SCI Engineers & ends of the project to discuss road closure Constructors Inc. of Calgary wer e options. Extensive advertising and bulletins awarded the contract have helped lessen disruption to the com­ munity and travelling public. The area has a history of slides and road closures lasting several days. The most On tour in Region 3) Sharon recent slide in 1990 closed the road for Varley) Supervisor) Correspondence three weeks. MoTH 's latest work is a $1­ Unit (left in the background) and million effort to prevent further slides. Over Barb Harrison) Executive 100 ,000 cubic metres of material is being Administrative Co-ordinator) HQ removed from the hillside. The project had a chance to view the model. requires blasting the larger rock, carving out a catch-basin at the bottom of the slide 8 Road Runner Winter 1992/93

IN THE FIELD Students on shore and on board. Photo: Dan Keeler

associated with a Through Truss bridge. REGION 4 North Cariboo office has also taken students from Maple Drive Educating TOlTllTlorro\N's Junior Secondary for a tour of Road Users the Quesnel River Bridge. Now another elementary school has Students in Quesnel are showing a grow­ been in touch with Dan to dis­ ing interest in Highways operations, due to cuss a field trip. In a town the our friendly staff in North Cariboo office. size of Quesnel, good news sure Last fall, we participated in Career Days travels fast. at Quesnel Senior Secondary. This fall, the school's Physics 11 class wanted to study A Horse's "Tale" The project features the latest in road the motion characteristics of the Marguerite building including the "Great Barrier reaction ferry. Dan Keeler, Bridge Area As part of a planned upgrade of Mile 80 System"- a guardrail energy absorption Manager was only too happy to arrange a rest area, North Peace District used horses terminal designed to collapse on impact. field trip that would be a valuable learning instead of machines to clear timber for experience. nature trails. This was done to minimize A bit of trivia: the North End Truck Route was the first project to really utilize the pro­ The students were so enthusiastic a damage to a unique spruce forest. ject team concept from inception to com­ planned 10-minute in-class presentation pletion. There were 75-team members. took an entire 55-minute period. At the North End Marguerite Ferry site , Engineering Section Tracy said, "It proved to me that project Truck Route Opens set up a Total Station Survey instrument to management is the only way to go on pro­ measure the velocity of travel as the ferry This arterial route to serve new industri­ jects of this size." tacked across the Fraser , taking readings at al developments in the Williams Lake area Congratulations to the team including five second intervals. The actual velocity of opened to much fan fare November 14th. Virgil Swanson from Regional Design group the river was then measured by dropping a Here's what the newspapers said. "A ben­ who kept everyone on track; Dennis Davis piece of styrofoam into the river and clock­ eficial addition to Williams Lake. " "Good from Planning who made sure the project fit ing it as it passed by known, measured dis­ job guys. ""High-tech beauty." "An impres­ into the grand scheme of things and Randy tances. The students took their data back to sive stretch of road." "A vision facilitated Wenger from Properties who handled some school to complete their experiment. Their by the Department of Highways supervi­ delicate negotiations with the sawmills. teacher, Mr. Law , is thinking ahead to sor Tracy Cooper (DHM, Central Cariboo) Tracy Cooper, DHM, Central Cariboo beside another project to study vectors for stresses and his crew." the "Great Barrier System. J)

Little Updates Score Big

Ron Wiebe 's (Public Information Officer, Region 4) construction updates help the RCMP, ambulance drivers and the public and earned him a place in the 2000/0 Club. The one-page updates are bulk mailed to citizens in affected rural communities and delivered to the RCMP, 911 emergency dis­ patch, Ambulance, CNR and bulletin boards in the area. The first edition comes before construction begins and usually locates the project on a map, describes what work will be done, warns of any road closures that may occur and provides alternate routes. Following editions include notices identifying firm road closure dates and a "thank-you-for-your-patience-road­ users" note. Ron Wiebe. Road Runner Winter 1992/93 9 IN THE FIELD REGION 5 The finance group had a bean counting contest in their dis­ Corne On Do""n play-the prize was a region sweatshirt. Regional office and Skeena District host­ Three hundred people toured ed an open house, November 10th. The the building and the media came purpose was to exchange information. We too. But the biggest plus was wanted to inform people about what we that the open house offered an do to keep them moving on the highways excellent opportunity to get to and bridges and we wanted to hear what know co-workers better and to people had to say about how we're doing. learn what they do. Everyone Every department made a presentation. involved now has a new respect Even our local maintenance contractor, for their co-workers and the work Nechako North Coast, pitched in. they do. Congratulations to all. REGION 6

Ne"" Quarters In September, Vancouver Island survey­ ors were happy to receive new quarters at Parksville after spending many years cramped in field trailers. Standing outside their new office at Pine Tree Centre, Highway #4 are (left to right): George Der, Dave Purvis, Jack Mawle (the crew's super­ visor), Bob Reading, Dave Rich, Norm Urquhart, Bob Wylie, Lee Purvis, Dan Kells, Ron Holz, R. Robinson, Ken MacKenzie, Ross Ford, Gary McNutt , Steve Reid, Dave Smart, Andrew White and Barr Fisk. Bill Quinn was missing at the time the picture was shot. Photo: Tom Parkin Compare the equipment)poses andfacilities with their counterparts in this Esquimalt and T""o Take Flying Leap Nanaimo Railway party taken close by) 80years ago. It started as a "macho" challenge for regional computer wiz Jack Chiu, but after an initial sky dive at Victoria International Airport, he leapt into the program feet first. Last June he went on an automatically­ opening chute jump at 3,000 feet. Jack is now up to six jumps, just two short of his first free-fall. Jack was so enthusiastic about the expe­ rience, he convinced public information officer, Tom Parkin to try one of the 'tourist specials ' offered by Ultimate High Parachute Club. Tom went 'way, 'way up­ to 10,000 feet for a one-time tandem fall. For this, he was harnessed to a dive master who did all the work. Tom's words on exit­ ing were, "If only mother could see me now." (He has a video of the 30-second free-fall for those interested in trying it.) 10 Road Runner Winter 1992/93

IN THE FIELD \Nell Fair

The HQ Well Fair, October 26 and 27, faired very well. Over 300 attended. Good information was shared, apples were con­ HEADQUARTERS sumed and prizes were won. Two of the fair 's participants comment. "It was very informative, if you wanted to spend the Logo by Darius time. There were knowledgeable people willing to answer any questions on health, Darius Kanga (Manager, Research & exercise, eating habits, stress, etc.," said Development, Planning Services Branch) Fabiola Owen. "Lately some of my co­ 10ve s w 0 rking with sta in e d gIass. I-I e brought his hobby to work when he workers have taken to calling me the designed and built a replica of the ministry 'Fa tb o y', so I hope to put the Weight logo-so perfect a match in colour and of Watchers cookbook that I won as a draw such fine workmanship, he attracted regu­ prize to good use ," said Steve Barr. lar visitors to his office to admire it. When the executive invited him to showcase it at a meeting, Darius donated the piece to the Community Fund ministry. Darius is now designing a lamp Goal Smashed which will incorporate the logo into its We aimed for $33 ,000 and collected shade. We asked if he 's taking orders. He $38,000 for the Provincial Employees said, sure. Thanks Darius. Community Fund Campaign. Five branches had 100 per cent participation. Each will receive a certificate for their efforts (along HO\Nling Success Marathon Men with four other branches that pulled in 80 per cent participation) but we had their Safety Branch sent out an invitation to Three HQ staffers completed the 42 km "dress up " for halloween and approximate­ Royal Victoria Marathon on October, 11th: directors compete in "tricycle playoffs" to ly 200 ghosts, goblins and what nots came. Al Moir, Senior Manager , Financial Planning see which branch would win the .grand It was a haunting affair. The first 120 cos­ and Reporting; Ian Matthews , Major prize-lunch with the executive. It was tumed guys and ghouls who visited Safety Projects Technician and Ken Carter OA close but "Gregarious" Gregg Singer (Major Branch received a Halloween pencil. At Branch Manager's Office, Financ~ and Projects) kept the pressure up and man­ afternoon coffee the helpless public was Administration Branch. Congratulations. aged to squeeze by "Ro ck e t" Rodney surrounded by pirates, witches and dwarfs "Ian came in at three hours and 38 minutes. Chapman (Construction) at the finish line. as employees spilled into the HQ building Al Moir, celebrating his 40th birthday took Third place finisher was "Bashful" Bob courtyard for prizes and treats. three hours, 50 minutes," said Ken. Buckingham (Finance), followed closely by "Mag ic al" Mike Kent (Environment). "It took me longer. I hadn't done enough "Dynamic" Dick Melville (Public Affairs) Theghouls at the minister's office-Cleft to training in the beginning. I came in at four right) Heidi Reid, Muriel Scott, Jackie St. hours, 30 minutes. " Better training next won for the best-dressed competitor. Dennis (kneeling) and Patti Haire. time Ken. "Gregarious" Gregg and "Rochet" Rodney Road Runner Winter 1992/93 11

dob Vtlell Done Thank you MoTH On behalf of residents and visitors of the Your Fan Mail In trying to think of ways to say Resort Municipality of Whistler I would like thank you to all Highways people to extend our appreciation for a "job well past and present for your friendship, done." The upgrading and surface rehabili­ support and comradery over the past Cycling Conference tation carried out this summer by your min­ Organizers Praised 37 years, I realized there is no better istry along Highway 99 has improved way than using a great friend to all of access to this community and added both I found the Cycling B.C. '92: Focus on the us-the Road Runner. comfort and safety to all drivers. Special Future conference to be quite useful, both I am sincerely grateful to all of you mention should go to the ministry's repre­ in terms of further educating myself, as a for your well wishes and beautiful sentatives, in particular, Messrs. Don Wharf cycling advocate, and in the opportunity it gifts presented to me on Friday (Project Manager, Paving, Region 1) and provided for planners, engineers, politicians evening, November 6, 1992. The Fred Palmer (Project Supervisor, Paving, and cycling advocates to hear each others' memories will last forever. Region 1) , for their exemplary efforts in point of view and concerns. The organizers, the execution of this project. in particular Jordan Alexander-and If I had to do it all over again, Danelle Laidlaw of Cycle BC as well­ would I? You bet! Thank you. Ted Nebbeling, Mayor deserve high praise for bringing it all GeoffWarrington. together so well. Setting the Standard Not only did your ministry take the Thank you (Veronica Walsh, Executive unprecedented step of holding a conference Secretary, Highways Operations Department, to focus on cycling issues, but it is all the HQ) for your professional and efficient man­ more laudable that the general public too agement of our recent request for informa­ had an opportunity to participate-I hope tion regarding the status of our subdivision the planners and engineers also felt they application. While we were prepared to wait benefited from this additional dimension. on the availability of the Assistant Deputy I dare to hope, if the conference is a Minister, it was indeed a pleasure to have good indication of your commitment to such a prompt response, thanks to your ini­ cycling as a legitimate and desirable form of tiative. You have set a standard to which all transportation (that indeed, cyclists aren't ministry employees should aspire. simply a "bunch of ding-a-lings"), that we Bob Holland) President) shall be seeing many exciting improvements Quaestor Construction Ltd. over the forthcoming months and years. Volker Bodegom, Vancouver Great dob Dan Doyle) AD~ Highway I am writing on behalf of myself and the Operations (left) and Geoff. Resourceful people of Roy Creek Road. We would like Photo: Royce Kletke to thank you (Robin Storkey , Area (A hunter had an uncomfortable experi­ Manager, North Island District) for seeing ence driving to and boarding the Big Bar that our water problem was solved. A great ferry. The road was steep and the ferry had Working For Youth job was done. Not very often are things ferry ramps that made it virtually impossi­ Thank you (Mark Stevens , Area Manager, done so well and in such a swift and hon­ ble to load vehicles having other than stan­ South Island District) on behalf of the est manner. dard rear axle overhang. But a resourceful young people involved, for your interest Linda Leigh) Royston resident employee saved the day.) and co-operation in permitting us to Thomas Zimmerlee was most under­ upgrade the paved area on the grounds of standing and patient throughout the the SANSCHA Hall in Sidney for use of "Vtle Feel Safe on Ferries" process. In addition, I'm sure he worked skateboaders. The project was very suc­ The lake ferries have had a good record. beyond his normal working hours. If so, he cessful. Police and business owners noted Let us keep it that way. We have had many did not make any mention of it. Thinking there was almost no hassles with skate­ occasions to ride our ferries and enjoy the of the old adage "yo u r work is only as boarders using sidewalks and mall areas trip across the lake. We never cease to good as the tools provided," I was amazed during the summer. We now have a com­ marvel at the skillful dockings by the cap­ at the resourcefulness of Mr. Zimmerlee, mittee working toward providing perma­ tains and the precise and courteous manner using old planks and bits and pieces to nent recreation facilities. Thank you for the deck officer and deck hands load and make it work. As a resident and taxpayer in helping us prove the urgent need to pro­ unload the cars ... and very large logging and of B.C., I take this opportunity to thank vide such facilities for the young people. trucks. They are pleasant and we feel safe. this individual for that "extra effort" so sel­ When people take an interest in them, they A feeling we've never had when loading dom acknowledged by most. live up to responsibilities very quickly. on the coastal ferries. Dave Lee) Maple Ridge Brenda Harfield, Councillor, Town ofSidney Dawn Penniket, Nelson 12 Road Runner Winter 1992/93

The Road SholN Cycling B.C. "In September, we went on the road to 'show' regional staff what the inter­ im cycling policy is all about and were 'shown' a thing or two ourselves," said a Success Jordan Alexander, Policy Branch, HQ. "There was a good exchange of infor­ mation." The first-ever provincial cycling confer­ Policy Branch's "cycling road show" ence was a great success. In the consisted of 80 slides-an introduction Legislature, William Hartley, MLA for to stakeholder comments on the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows touted it as February 1992 draft policy and key HQ being "the way the provincial government players. The visual representation of wants to continue to work with the peo­ issues covered all areas of project devel­ ple of British Columbia." Over 200 people opment from bikeway planning and attended (p lanners, engineers, environ­ design to construction and maintenance. mentalists, politicians, cycling advocates, The regions, in turn, showed Jordan etc .) and worked together to flesh out an the glaring differences that exist action plan to make cycling a 1110re viable between regions. An overall blanket transportation option. policy couldn't seem to cover them all. Highlights of recommendations from "Cycling issues differ greatly outside the conference action planning session the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, include creation of a provincial cycling and the Okanagan,': said Jordan. "In co-ordinator; education strategies target­ the Kootenays, there's many kilometres ing adults; police officers, school teachers of road with a rock face on one side and bike couriers, improving existing road and a 150 metre drop on the other. and path facilities; developing and pro­ This makes adding a metre and a half moting route destinations for touring shoulder to accommodate cyclists quite cyclists; enhancing links with other trans­ Minister Art Charbonneau outside the difficult and costly." portation modes; identifying ways to pro­ conferencefacilities in Vancouver­ Jordan thanks region staff for mak­ vide facilities for touring cyclists (e.g. 'W orking together we can make ing her feel at home and for their good storage, parking, showers, laundry). cycling happen in B.C. " ideas. One individual suggested differ­ Special thanks to Jordan Alexander, her Photo: Vancouver Sun ent types of paving and sealcoating support team from HQ policy branch and practices could be applied to benefit Kenwood Rayner from Highway Planning cyclists. Branch, who was drafted (without warn­ Interim Cycling Policy "Our regions are diverse but we have ing) at the conference. (And to Susan Following the conference, an interim a common bond. We all work together O'Connor too, who in September joined policy was finalized by Policy Branch. It to serve the public's transportation the ministry team working on Transport was released to the public in early January. needs," said Bruce McKeown, ADM, 2021 with the Greater Vancouver Regional Planning and Major Projects. "To this Issues in the policy include roadbuilding District.) end, we encourage comments to the and maintenance standards as well as interim cycling policy released earlier cyclist encouragement, education and Task Force Being Formed this month. enforcement. Local and regional cycle-route What began at the conference will con­ planning and integration initiatives, such as "Working tinue. MoTH is chairing a special task force B.C. Transit 's proposed 'Bike-and-Ride' pro­ together, over to aid the co-ordinated implementation of gram, are also included. the next year the conference action plan. Besides MoTH we can shape a A year-long monitoring process is now in staff, the task force will include representa­ more 'universal' place to allow the public and stakeholders tives from the ministries of tourism, envi­ and effective time to review and comment on the policy. ronment and Attorney General as well as cycling policy During this period, MoTH will track the B.C. Transit, cycling associations in and address development and success of implementing Vancouver, Victoria and the Okanagan, the internal issues initiatives proposed in the policy. Any com­ Capital and Greater Vancouver Regional such as cycle­ ments and issues will be considered during Districts and the City of Kelowna. route planning. " policy revisions in fall 1993. Representation is being sought from the Jordan Alexander ministries of municipal affairs, health and If you want a copy of the policy, contact education. the Policy Branch at HQ-397-5997. Road Runner Winter 1992/93 13

Dynamic Pile Driving By Don Gillespie, Geophysical Engineer, Geotechnical Operations, Burnaby 11 around the province, many bridges are being replaced w ith steel or concrete structures with much longer spa ns and much greater foundation requirements. That's when MoTH installs new piles-to support bridge abutments and piers. Here's how it works. Design engineers specify the pile sizes as well as the hammer required to drive the pile in. Based on either computer analysis or dynamic pile for­ mula, a driving resistance is determined. Site inspectors use the driving resistance as a means of quality control. Doug, left, and Don Sometimes things don't go quite as expected, however. "The pile will then be either approved for use or remedial mea­ Often, on very short notice, the PDA (Pile Driving Analysis) oper­ sures will be taken, " said Don Gillespie. ator drives or flies to the site with as much electronics and comput­ ers as a rock and roll band. One or two of the piles in question are Don is one of two operators who are now trained to perform instrumented to measure the driving force in the pile, the perfor­ PDA for the ministry. Doug Munich and Don share the duties mance of the pile driver and the capacity of the pile. Frequently, a depending on other activities. Last summer, they also trained comparison of the potential energy of the hammer to the actual Surinder Puir who is now back at school with the Professional energy delivered to the pile can provide an explanation of anoma­ Partnership for Graduate Studies Program. lous (not normal) driving behaviour. By instrumenting the pile, Doug says he enjoys the opportunity to see the province and the anomalous behaviour can be explained. challenge of the job. Every job and every site is different.

inthe r lif @ fh @

"Depending on the situation," says Doug ,"we may be lifted by a crane while we stand on a platform or ... there was one job where they had a crane with a ball and hook on the end. It was the mid­ dle of winter and below freezing. The ball was dipped into the water and we sat on it so our pants froze onto it and then we were lifted up." Both Don and Doug say they like working on construction sites­ especially when MoTH personnel are supervising construction. "The work can be heavy at times. We need between 350 to 400 pounds of gear to do our job. Ministry employees are always will­ ing to pitch in and do some of the leg work, helping us carry the gear to the site," Don says.

Doug and Don would like to thank MoTH site supervisorsfor their assistance over the years.

(Editor 's note: we thank Doug and Don too, for sharing their story.) 14 Road Runner Winter 1992/93 Ser ice Excellence Updc

From Vince Collins, Deputy Minister lined in the ministry's "Priorities for Action" plan, circu­ Shortly, you willreceive a report on ourperformancein lated to staff April 1992. They were lofty, but we're on the way to achieving them, thanks to our "Se rvice S.E. is working meeting our Priorities for Action objectives for 1992/93. as a team to Here are highlights of accomplishments to date in "Sennce Excellence" staff and dedicated reps in the field. solve business Our Strategies to Meet Our Goal Excellence. " Keep up thegoodwork! problems-as 1) We need to continue to talk about "Service South Coast's Our "Service Excellence " Goal Excellence"toensurestaffunderstandthe concepts and the Management relevance of "Sertice Excellence"to theworkplace. The ministry is dedicated to the pursuit Services Team To this end, our "Service Excellence" reps have worked shows us (see ofexcellence in the delivery ofquality tirelessly. Between July and October, they supported the Fall and next services to all our customers. In doing so, "Service Excellence" office in the delivery of awareness Road Runner). sessions. They're also the facilitators of the 2000/0Club. In Team member the ministry will ensure that customer Keith St01Y, the fourth quarter of the year, the "Service Excellence" needs are clearly identified and that Project unit also produced a video. It showed us where we are Technician, ministry programs andpriorities address and our plans for the future. Specifically, the creation of a pictured. customer expectations. ministry-wide "Service Excellence" plan of action for 1993/94. 2) Feedbackfrom regionalfocus groups needs to be ervice Excellence is critical to our everyday opera­ analyzedfor full understanding ofcustomer demands, Our Priorities for A tions. It's the glue that keeps us working togeth­ and strategies need to bedeveloped in orderto respond cre­ er-not just for our external customers but it atively to thisfeedback. 1) Regional and makes our jobs more pleasant as well. "Service Excel­ Regional focus groups were surveyed last February. The Excellence" Unit, uii, lence" supports and develops the human side of govern­ results were circulated to "Service Excellence" reps and ceptsof"Service Exc ment , not the machine referred to as the bureaucracy. managers for discussion amongst staff. Staff responded in participate in explo. customer groups. The concept of "Service Excellence" isn't new. You 've many areas. Regional updates to keep the public more The "Service Excelle been working toward it all along. What "Se rv ice informed of all ministry activities was one result. And staff Excellence" does is empower the staff to change things are "talking and listening" to the public more than ever to be driving this pri: for the better. before. This is critical to the success of the program. have become involve are to succeed. We ] This is my opportunity to assess our progress in ful­ 3) Further effort is required on developing customer that providing excelf filling "Service Excellence" strategies and priorities out- profiles of service expectations and benchmarktests ofper­ ceivedsatisfaction with service levels. This research willbe management respon: conductedon both internaland externalcustomers. continued leadership to our long-term suo S.E. is serving A general population study was made between August 2) Every workuru ourselves better and October. The target audience was 800 public and to implementservice too-as 200% Club commercial road users. Further,"Speak Out '92, a survey orityshould begiven memberMarie of staff opinions (on "Service Excellence," "Organizational Stebbing, HQ mitment, identifying Health" and internal communications) was conducted in (pictured with customer feedback, October. The results of both will be communicated soon Gordon Hogg, deemed to hold the I and will help direct the ministry-wide "Service Excellence " ADM, Admin payback. plan of action for 1993/94. Services on Two major initiativ receiving an 4) Where it is notpossible orprudent to meetthespecif­ "Emp loyee ic demands of customers, ministry representatives have a 1) The Annual Pt Suggestion duty to inform thecustomer and explainthe reasons. 92 /93 produced b Department is an ex Award") did in We've made some good progress on this one. of this priority. working to improve Perhaps the best example is the customer complaint fol­ Financial low-up program first developed at Lakes District and 2) Planning and 1 Management now being employed by others. These type of lot of work in ident Reporting (FMR) approaches are exactly what we need in order to stay their expectations at for users. close to our customers. meet or beat these e)

, ,' ,' , •• • ,',,:+' '<, , Road Runner Winter 1992/93 15

Critiques ate Compiled by Ann Adams,"Seruice Excellence" rep, Public Affairs Branch "Excellent service has always Overall, we 're on the right track. We are recognized by been offered in this region, but we government as being leaders in "Service Excellence," are aware that we must continue to thanks to staff. But there needs to be more interaction. We improve service and product deliv­ need to talk and listen more to our external customers ery. " June Forsythe, Central/North and we must improve the level of communications East Region between departments as well as between staff and their "I think the great accomplishment of managers/ supervisors. 'Service Excellence' has been the 3) TheExecutive) with input ofall ministry work units opening up of communication andfeedback from customers through focus groups and between employees and all levels of surveys) will prepare a ministry-toide planfor "Ser uice management. This enables ideas for Excellence"prior to the end offiscalyear 1992/93. improvement to be expressed openly and received positively. " Marilyn As you will note under "strategy 3," we completed an Mineault, South Peace District. SOO-sample, road-user survey the results of which will be circulated to " Se r v i c e Excellence" reps and "Identifying customers was an exer­ managers/ supervisors in the new year. The next step will cise that demonstrated the practical be to have managers/supervisors meet with their staff to application of 'Service Excellence'. We discuss the results. At this point, staff will be asked to pro­ had a lot of fun with it and I could see vide feedback. This feedback, as well as the road-user sur­ people beginning to understand the vey findings ,"Speak Out '92" findings and plans produced intent of the initiative." Christy Kerr, Highway Planning Branch ztio n by each work unit in response to "priority 2," will con­ tribute to the preparation of a ministry-wide plan for "I feel that S.E. in our Branch has Branch Directors) with the "Seruice "Service Excellence" in the 1993/94 fiscal year. This plan is helped to boost the morale, but staff l ensure staffare exposed to the con­ to be produced by April of this year. have communicated they feel man­ illence"and have the opportunity to agement has to make their support ing ways to improve service to their more visible. " Sue Harrison, Contract Admin, HQ .ice" reps and staff in general seem "I'm concerned that peers are com­ .rity. I congratulate all of you who S.E. is becoming a part ofthe community- ing to me with comments like S.E. isn't d. That is the way it must be if we as N011h Cariboo District 's student tours help us. going anywhere. S.E. is not simply teed to remember though, responding to outside customers in a nt service is very much a quick and courteous manner. S.E. has ibility and as such, their to begin taking care of our colleagues. and involvement is critical Team building begins at 'home' and ess. starts off small. I still remain with the t willhave developed a plan understanding that when you recog­ enhancements. Initial pri­ nize employees for a job well done, to building employeecom­ the investment is well worth the he customerbase) soliciting return. " LeahGlide-Stat, Highway and responding on issues Safety Branch iigbestpriority or greatest "We are working to keep 'Service 1 Excellence' awareness high and are ~ s : very encouraged by customer feed­ iformance Agreements for back. A bouquet of flowers was I Highways Operations received recently by]oni Cooper, our .ellen! exercise in support Development Approvals Officer and letters of thanks were received by Brian Hammerback, District 1ajor Projects have done a Technician." Kee WarnerandAndrea fying customers, defining Smit, Lakes District. d developing strategies to pectations. 16 Road Runner Winter 1992/93

IT'S YOUR SERVE

Yvon , did the upgrades Cost-Saving Trio remotely, assisted by By Bill Birney) systems technicians at Information Systems Branch) HQ the regions and by site contacts at the districts The project: to upgrade the operating and sub-offices. system software on 38 shared processors We estimate savings (minicomputers), from an old release to the of at least $ 6 0, 0 0 0 new current release. This was a big job through avoidance of travel costs to the 33 The cost-saving trio (left to right):John Fysb, done with a minimum of disruption to our sites. Of course, there were reasons for Senior Operation Analyst and operations customers. It involved a dozen people, plus doing the upgrades, such as better reliabili­ analysts Margo McCormick and Yvon assistance from region/district operations ty, assured continuation of vendor support, Leduc. staff and three key players: John Fysh, etc.-and these were achieved. However, Margo McCormick and Yvon Leduc. the real story was the evenings and week­ (Editor's note: Because the key players John figured out a way to do the ends worked by these people so as not to were contractors, they are not eligible for upgrades without our having to physically inconvenience customers (ministry staff) the government Suggestion Awards, but visit each site , as had been necessary the during working hours, and the ingenuity their dedication and ingenuity is appreciat­ previous time. He and his staff, Margo and applied to avoiding travel costs. ed. Thanks.) Ferry Workers to the Rescue Captain Malcolm Coupland congratulates Al Chalmers (left) and Roger Aubert. The tradition on inland ferries is to ren­ der assistance to any individual in trouble on their waterways. Recently, four crew members on the Kootenay Ferry route were Suggestion Awards thanked by the public for coming to the rescue on two different occasions. Congrats to Wendy Isherwood, Data Clerk, Insurance and Claims Section in the "Words fail me ," said Lyn Price when Construction Engineering Branch, HQ. two crewmates on the Kootenay Lake Ferry She designed a more efficient file retrieval route , Al Chalmers and Roger Aubert, system for her section and won herself assisted her mother, who'd been injured in $650. Wendy took what was "always the a motor vehicle accident on the way to the way" (searching daily for files for claims ferry. "Roger was very considerate, helping adjustors) and turned it into a "new, more with telephone calls, offering coffee. Al efficient system" (searching on designated was sensitive , careful, thorough and days, weekly). Her evaluator from the humorous," said Lyn. section, Steve Swanston says,"The changes Larry Watke and Paul Moreau also came saved us time ... but far more important, is that the changes have taken what to the rescue. Phyllis Trozzo explains in a used to be a nasty and frustrating job and letter to the ministry: "We want to convey turned it into a welcome part of the week's our thanks for the way they responded to routine." Al Trozzo who was in severe pain as he was being transported to Nelson hospital. Earl Lund) ChiefHighway Engineer (right) They have him 100% care, comforting and presents Wendy her plaquefor taking "a talking, giving him oxygen and assuring nastyjob and turning it into a welcome him he was going to be okay. " part ofthe ioeek's routine. JJ Road Runner Winter 1992/93 17

ew 200% Club embers

Sherrie Applegate and Lee Constan­ Sandra deHoog, Lakes District: goes tineau, Bulkley Nass District: booth design­ the extra mile; in early always ers/builders extraordinaire Carol Deveau, HQ: regularly works Barbara Armstrong, HQ: goes the beyond job requirements extra mile-always Sue Gravelle , Region 4: an asset to Beth Atkinson, HQ: pleasant the ministry and efficient Jim Guthrie and Noella Resendes, Region 4: arranged 50per cent Linda Ashby, Region 6: performed cost-savings travel three jobs at once-willingly Captain,Ken Caufield (now retired) gave Margaret Heslop, Region 2: devel­ pleasure to kids throughout the country. John Brethour, electrical crew, Region oped procedures to ensure key people 6: great organizational and record-keeping are kept informed during emergencies Joyce Pool, Region 6: always willing to skills through ministry radio room lend a hand and uplifting Dan Buckthorpe, Commissionaire, HQ: LizKennedy, HQ: created an improved Jim Richards, HQ: epitome of "Service cheerfu l, eager attitude bring forward system Excellence" Terry Burgess, Fort George District: Maxine McDicken, Region 6: thinks Kirby Rimer, HQ: always provides grade "A" public consultation ahead to make work place pleasant high-quality, high-production Andy Bush and Rees Davidson, Bruce McGorman, Region 6: for Nicol Paulette Stehle, Allan Brasch and Bridge Inspection Crew: contagious enthusi­ Street project, careful attention to public con­ Lee Anne Laponder, Okanagan/Shuswap asm and extra hours cerns sub-office: receivers of "Sunshine" letter Bob Maher, HQ: gets a "10" for humour from the public sector Ken Canfield (Captain now retired), and patience in training staff Gary Stringer, HQ: volunteered to Kootenay Lake Ferry: for his years of ser­ help out Library Resource Centre vice and giving joy to hundreds of kids Nadene Morris, Nicola District: works throughout our country overtime , takes calls at home Del Rosario, Ministry Librarian and Brenda Nicolson, HQ: fine work in pro­ library clerks , Enza and Shahida: for Ken Carter, HQ: consistently helpful, viding autocad drawings enhancing the ministry Geo tech lab's abili­ happy, willing to lend a hand Teresa Nye, HQ: goes beyond duty ty to access information AIChalmers and Roger Aubert, cheerfully Murray Tekano, HQ: ensured students Kootenay Lake Ferry: for helping woman Bob O'Brien, Central Island: positive to were provided a trail to take them safely injured in car accident (see Ferry Workers to public and staff past the McKenzie Ave. construction site the Rescue p.16) Dina O'Donnell, HQ: offers never-too­ Tony Taylor (Marine Manager now Virginia Clark, HQ: high-level quality busy technical support retired) Kootenay Lake Ferry: initiated to Engineers in Training program state-of-the-art signage, tourist map of Marge Pogson, Rob Delange and West Kootenays, emergency phone num­ Lynda Daniels, HQ: put in 12 to 14­ Murray Baines , HQ: sacrificed free time to bers and small block ads for local hour days for UBCM conference deliver Lan Customer to Properties Branch entrepreneurs Fred Thompson, Region 6: overdue Paulette Stehle, for recognition of conscientious endeavors Allan Brasch and Nella Todd, Region 4: against all odds, Lee Anne Laponder, got survey crew a new home Okanagan/Shuswap Kim Douglas Tourner, HQ: training Sub-Office­ support on very, very sho rt notice "Sunshine" makers. GeoffWarrington, (now retired) HQ: outstanding service for 37 years Larry Watke and Paul Moreau, Kootenay Lake Ferry: caring for customer on route to Nelson Hospital (see Ferry Workers to the Rescue p.16) Ron Wiebe, Region 4: designed project updates (see Little Updates p. 8) Wei Wong, Fraser Valley District: help ed road user in distress. 18 Road Runner Winter 1992/93

How Does it Work? Employee For a problem at home that doesn't affect work, you can refer yourself. If the prob­ Long-Service Assistance lem potentially affects your work, yo ur supervisor may suggest you refer yourse lf. Awards If it 's really affecting your work, yo u r Program su pervisor will refer you. In this case you may have a Union Steward present at the It 's all about helping people to help Fifty-six ministry employees had the hon­ meeting with your supervisor. Each refer ral themselves. It's confidential and it's free. our of being recognized for their long ser­ is reviewed and either accepted or rejected vice-two for forty -years, 10 for thirty-five Who is the program for? for action. Action would involve coun­ years and forty-four for twenty-five years. selling through a community resource and They were invited to join other government The program provides free , confidential EAP follow up to determine if the course long-service employees to be congratulated and professional support to help employ­ was successful. by our Premier and enjoy the hospitality at ees resolve problems that affect their per­ Government House in Victoria, November sonal or work lives. (Yes, your spouse or And iffurther assistance is needed? dependents can apply too because your 26, 1992. Congratulations. On completion of the program, if further well-being and work performance can be Barney Keane, Region 3 assistance is recommended, the employee Forty Years affected by their problems.) It's your choice and Ivan WillialTIs , Region 2 will be responsible for the monetary costs. but going through the EAP may also be Thirty-Fivers James Bell , Fort George; mandatory when work performance is However, MSA (extended health) will Larry deBoer, HQ ; Herbert Heywood, affected. now accept receipts for services rendered Region 2; Oliver King, Region 1; James by doctors registered by the College of Kirkpatrick, Region 6; Frank Martens , What kinds of problems? Psychologists to a maximum of $200 a per­ son or $500 a family per year. It is sub ject Region 4; Jim Mewhort, Region 2; Derek EAP does not deal with all work-related to a deductible of 25 per cent and co-insur­ Parkes, Region 1; Frank Sawatzky, Region problems. That's what management, per­ ance factor of 80 per cent. 3; Arnold Arthur Talbot, S. Okanagan. sonnel and the union are for. The EAP Twenty-Fivers James Arnusch, Kootenay deals with human problems that may affect Where do you refer yourself Boundary; Larry Bagan, Region 3; Paul your work which may include but are not or an employee? Bowler, H Q ; Peter Brett, H Q; Barrie limited to those related to health, alcohol Carlson , HQ; Walt Chamberlain, HQ; Robin and drug abuse or dependancy, family, It's as simple as calling 1-800-661-2327 Cherbo, C. Kootenay; John Clark, North marital and financial problems. (687-4113 in the Lower Mainland) 24 hours Peace; Carl Collier, E. Kootenay; Harman a day , seven days a week. Delyea, E. Kootenay; Don Diesing, E. Why is it needed? Kootenay; iels Edelmann, Fort George; We all have problems. Usually we can Tom Edwards, Electrical District, Coq.; work them out. Sometimes though, they Ralph Falbo , Selkirk; Gordon Frank, Region become too much to handle and start Review of 3; Glen Gibbon, Region 2; Earl Gro nvold, affecting our happiness, health, relation­ Region 2; Bernie Haddock, Region 2; Errol ships or work. When this happens we need Hicks, Region 3; Howard Hunter, Region 1; support or these problems and the conse­ STU Positions Gerald Irving, S. Cariboo; Larry Khadikin, quences may become worse. A committee to review positions for clas­ Region 3; Bud Kirkland, S. Cariboo; Tad sification within the Scientific Technical Kiyona, Region 2; Terry Kirkbride, HQ ; Officer (STO) Plan was formed because Ronald Kristoff, C. Kootenay; Russell Leech, there was concern over classification levels HQ ; Laury Lewis, Lower Mainland; Jim assigned to positions as a result of the STO MacDonald, Kootenay Boundary; Ro n Plan. Members include Miles Webster Matthews, Regio n 1; Neil McDonald, C. (chair), regional re p, Reg Fredrikson, dis­ Kootenay; Patrick McFarlane, Regi o n 2; trict rep and from headquarters: Richard Gregory Mertton, HQ; Donald Morr iso n, Dixon and Wayne Bobroske. Region 3; Lawrence Olson , North Peace ; The committee mandate is to provide an Jim O'Bryan, Region 3; Roger Pratt, Region advisory role with respect to orga nizational 3; Dave Thomas, Region 5; Wally Smith , structure; review d ut ies to determine if Region 1; Don Taphorn, Selkirk; Pa uline positions meet the criteria for the STO Plan; Thomas , Region 2; Ro n Webber, HQ; and classify positions. All sub mitted job Patricia Wood , Region 2; H a n s descriptions and related infor mation is cur­ Zimmermann, Region 2. rently being collected and s o rte d for Forty-year employee Barney Keane and his review. wife j ackie. Further de tails will be communicated in Photo: Royce Kletke the next Road Runner. Road Runner Winter 1992/93 19

The task dictionary will provide a data Pay Equity Update base for the preparation of computer-assist­ ed job descriptions and is scheduled to be Work on the Government Pay Equity complete and operational by spring 1994. Thanks for Program is behind schedule, however, the Due to the high cost of hardware/software Being There bulk of our ministry's workload commit­ for this program, it may initially be avail­ ment to the project is complete. Ministry able in a limited number of locations. From Nella Todd, Employment Equity employees have conducted 14 task-dictio­ Approximately twenty employees were Committee Chair, Region 4 nary focus groups (comprised of three to interviewed as part of the process for To all who attended and took the time to five employees each) and worked an aver­ developing a new gender-neutral job evalu­ comment on the Employment Equity age of three days. Additionally, we con­ ation plan to cover all positions in the Awareness sessions, thank you. Most said tributed to a number of focus groups con­ BCGEU bargaining unit. The new job eval­ they were good, some said the y were too ducted by other ministries. uation plan is scheduled for completion in long and pacing was slow. We 'll be ba ck the spring of 1994. with sensitivity seminars and will adjust To date we have had two pay delivery according to your comments. equity interim salary increases. These seminars were brought to you by Further increases are scheduled your fellow workers. The y were de signed to occur after the plan has been to make you aware of the historical and finalized and will continue at an current biases that make it difficult to annual rate of up to one per achieve diversity in our work place. Special cent of government payroll until thanks to the volunteers. equity is achieved. Don't forget. Equity is not just a pay issue. It's a matter of giving re spect and Deb Brooks, Pay Clerk and consideration to Andrew Bailey, Asst. Supervisor, all fellow human Payroll both from HQ-two beings. individuals who benefitedfrom Pay Equity increases. HQ "equity session " facilitator, David Robertson: "Think ofthe EWSE INARS positives."

Financial Management Seminar Managing Career The seminar is a one-day briefing on Discussions the fundamentals of Ministry/Govern­ This is a one-day seminar to assist ment Financial Management and Control. supervisors to effectively conduct career This session is intended for managers discussions with their employees and is Diversity Training Update and staff who are partially involved in particularly beneficial for supervisors Seven Managing Diversity training ses­ the financial management process but who are supporting a nominee in the sions were delivered last fall to ministry who do not require detailed knowledge Excel Program. managers. The initiative raised awareness of all aspects of the process. There are five key learning points : as well as provided information on employ­ Financial Administration 1) career preparation vs planning, ment equity and how to effectively manage Workshop diversity. 2) understanding the roles and This workshop is a two-day presenta­ responsibilities of the employee and Two comments received from session tion intended for employees who require the supervisor, attendees: "It increased my knowledge and more in-depth knowledge of the govern­ understanding of employment equity and 3) motivating employees, ment financial management and control the laws which govern it " and "I now process. It is designed to ensure practical 4) resources and tools available, and understand that managing diversity means financial policy concerns are addressed. 5) counselling skills to guide to integrate cross cultures, not merely The above two courses have been career discussions. assimilate people to my values." scheduled to begin in January. For fur­ This course will begin in early 1993. Thank you to those managers who ther information regarding the above For more information please call attended and participated. You showed a noted courses please call Wally Quarry Russ Spilsbury at 387-7800. desire to accommodate cultural differences at 387-7811. as well as commitment to our organization and your jobs. 20 Road Runner Winter 1992/93

Se~alHarassment ORK PLACE HARASSMENT Sexual harassment is any unwelcome comment or conduct of a sexual nature that may detrimentally affect the work environ­ ment or lead to adverse job-related consequences for the victim. We all benefit from a work place free from harassment. It includes, but is not limited to, unwanted physical contact, sex­ Harassment violates the fundamental rights , dignity and integrity ual advances, requests for sexual favours , and suggestive or of the individual-and it is against the law. The problem is, most offensive comments or gestures emphasizing sexuality, sexual of us don't know what harassment is. We've tried to do this for identity, or sexual orientation. you as well as to let you know who you can contact if you feel you 've been harassed. Who to Call Harassment is defined as Employees who believe they have been subjected to overt or implied harassment are encouraged to make their objections - harassment of an individual or individuals on any of the pro­ known to the harasser. Where this is inappropriate or ineffec­ hibited grounds of discrimination under the Human Rights Act of tive , employees are encouraged to seek the assistance of their British Columbia. These include: race , colour, ancestry, place of supervisor, manager, personnel advisor, appropriate representa­ origin, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental tive of their bargaining unit or the Employment Equity Advisor, disability, sex or sexual orientation; Carol Leung. - deliberate gestures, comments, questions, representations, or These individuals may not have all the answers to your ques­ other behaviours that ought reasonably to be known to be tions but they will know where additional information or assis­ unwelcome by the recipient and which serve no legitimate work tance is available. related purpose. New Language Harassment does not include actions occasioned through exercising in good faith the employer's managerial/supervisory The Government of the Province of B.C. and the BCGEU have rights and responsibilities. recently agreed to new language, policy, and procedures related to complaints of harassment. The policy and procedures also Employees, in dealing with other persons in the work place, apply to excluded employees. It is anticipated that , with the co­ must treat them with respect and dignity, and refrain from operation of the P.E.A. and the Nurses' Unions, members of exploiting a work relationship for private advantage or benefit. those two bargaining units will also be covered.

First Excel Congratulations Bob Graduate "Excel formalizes a very good process, Bob Corder, once manager of financial where two levels of supervisors work with services in Region 6, came into the min­ an employee and share their insight as well istry 's Excel program for career managers as their support. It also helps you identify with a goal-to be a Regional Manager of all the opportunities, and there's lots of Finance and Administration. With six them in this ministry. I'd recommend Excel months left to go on his planned Excel pro­ to anybody interested in career manage­ gram, he proved his management compe­ ment. " tency by winning the competition for Bob Corder's wife Sherry, daughter Regional Manager Finance and Robyn and son Danny, joined him in Administration in Region 4. Prince George December 6th. "We' re all "Alt h o u g h it 's not a huge step for looking forward to new opportunities and mankind," said Bob ,"I am now part of the meeting new people." regional management team, which is a Congratulations Bob. You can "Excel" large move for me." too , but first you have to be nominated. Bob began his career with the ministry inaugaration of Excel. My supervisor, ominees are recommended through 19 years ago , in General Office at HQ. He Bonnie Meurs (Regional Manager, Finance appraisal interviews during the career- then moved around the regions and dis­ & Administration) and Regional Director, development discussions. . tricts, working his way up. Neville Hope sat down with me and plot­ For more information, call your person­ "I started on a personalized, planned ted a two-year course of training that nel office or Russ Spilsbury in Personnel management program prior to the official would lead me toward my goal. Services Branch, HQ at 387-7799. Road Runner Winter 1992/93 21 What is Servic Excellence Anyway?

An excerptfrom North West Pathways) a personalperspective byJane Sparkes) Public Information Officer) Region 5

ervice Excellence; we've all heard Another motivation is, although the pub­ these words (if you haven't you lic has nowhere else to go for our services, must have your head under a rock). they can sure make a lot of noise if they 're SSome see it as "just another one of unhappy-you've all heard of minister's those ministry programs." Others gree t it as Over the next few referral letters and MLAs?!? an opportunity to change our bureaucratic Also , consider what kind of service ways. Some of you may not be clear on years, ideas will flow you expect when dealing with other what it means and what the ministry pro­ ministries and government services as a gram is all about. and get tried out. taxpayer. Not so hot sometimes, is it? Keep It means, in a nutshell, providing the best that in mind next time you 're dealing with service possible to your "cu sto me rs ." Some will succeed a "customer." Ultimately, all of us are contributing services Finally, we as civil servants have a moral that lead to an end product on the highway , and some won't. responsibility to provide the best possible therefore, our external customers are the service to our "customers" regardless of road users . We also have internal customers whether or not there are any repercussions we deal with on a day-to-day basis. to not doing so. n the public sector, as in MoTH, what's Perhaps you already are providing excel­ the motivation? Our customers can 't go A few other things about "Se rv ic e lent service to your "custome rs"- that' s to the competition and we can 't gain or Excellence" that may need some clearing great! The point of this initiative is to have lose money. What are "they" going to up. The reference to "customers"- it's just the ministry as a whole performing excel­ I a name to call those folks we serve. You do, fire us?!? lent service . The "Service Excellence" initia­ may sometimes hear them referred to as tive asks you to take a closer look at and Well, that's a pretty crummy attitude, eh? "clients." think about what you 're doing, who you 're The motivation to provide quality service "Service Excellence" activities-what are doing it for and how well you 're doing it. In still exists in the public sector, it's just not they? They are anything that will improve other words, who are your customers, what so bottom line. It's called pride. Personal service to external and internal people you services do you provide to them, are they pride in your work, pride in the organiza­ tion you work for. deal with. It could be eliminating an the right services and are they satisfied with unnecessary administrative process that those services? We all joke about our publicly known hinders good service, answering the phone The "Service Excellence" team was orga­ nickname the "Department of Holidays," after two rings instead of eight, keeping nized to take a closer look at the overall but admit it, that reputation is nothing to staff around at lunch to help "customers" ministry services and customers. They've be proud of. Not too many of us appre­ on their lunch hour, or dealing with a started by doing focus group studies that ciate the sometimes negative comments complaint immediately instead of days ask customers their service expectations we receive when we tell people where later. Perhaps one of the best ways we and current levels of satisfaction with the we work. deliver excellent service is by ensuring that ministry. The results of this study have been our road and bridge projects are the high­ made available to all staff in the ministry. est quality we can provide. It is the little The next step of this research is to do a What's the things AND the big things that will make a broader based survey getting an even better difference to the way people view us. picture of customer satisfaction levels. The motivation? Our The initiative is still in its infancy. Over group is also travelling the province to talk the next few years ideas will flow and get to other work units about "Se rv ic e customers can't go to tried out. Some will succeed and some Excellence" to motivate staff to think about won't. The thing to do at this time is think service and ways of improving it as individ­ the competition, and about it. Take the time to evaluate your sit­ uals in our ministry. uation. You may be happy to discover So why are we doing this, you ask? In the what are they going you 're doing just great or find there's room private sector the motivation is obvious. for improvement, but you 'd never given it Satisfied customers are return customers, in to d0, fIre us?,?... much thought. Now 's the time for making other words PROFIT AND SUCCESS. changes. 22 Road Runner Winter 1992/93 IN THE SPOTLIGHT

FRANCOIS LAKE FERRY

Location: Crosses Francois Lake , Professional Crew between Southbank and Francois Lake, 24 Excellent Ship kms south of Burns Lake in the Lakes District of Region 5 Al Thomson has been a captain on the Francois Lake route since 1974. Before then, Service: Year-round, seven days a week, he 'd been a relief mate on the Albion ferry with scheduled trips 19 hours a day and route for about a year and a mate on the on-call for emergencies between 12:30 a.m. MV Needles for six years. So he speaks from and 5:30 a.m. experience when he calls Number of Crew: 28 the Omineca Princess an Route Manager: Ken Millar excellent ship and its crew, Ship: MV Omineca Princess, 34-car, 200 very professional. passengers (Omineca is a Sekanni Indian "All are dedicated and John Mussich word meaning "lake-like or sluggish river") often work beyond the call & Loren Funk, Ship History: Built at Allied Ship of duty. Many start as local mixingpaint Builders in North Vancouver, the ship was relief workers and end up then cut into sections and moved by road making it their working (in 22 trailer loads) to Francois Lake. The career. Most are involved in Captain inaugural run was June 13, 1976. the community. Two, Tony At Thomson Route History: In .1916 , the government Busfield and Lorne MacNab, took over a private service here with the put in hundreds and hun­ Kitexchen-a barge with a one-team-and­ dreds of hours to get a local wagon capacity. September 1919, the volunteer "first aid respon­ Kitexchen swept ashore during a high der group" going-with wind. It was refloated, but sunk shortly help from the B.C. after. The Francois Belle replaced it. As Ambulance Service co-ordi- traffic increased, larger ferries were put on nator in Burns Lake. About "Spotlight On" the route: the 6-car Francois Lake Ferry ten years ago, Tony also graphic thanks to (1922), the 16-car Jacob Henkel (1949) and, organized a volunteer fire Joy Lees , Financial finally, the Omineca Princess (1976). department in Southbank." Systems, HO

Mate Norm McGinnis and team - they 're trainingfor the world 's longest and toughest race in 1995, from Anchorage to Nome Alaska. Ken Millar Route Manager Road Runner Winter 1992/93 23

Growing Roads?!!? By Tom Parkin) Public Information Officer) Region 6

Does he really think that road will grow? As soon as the stop bars , crosswalk Of course not. Mike Rutledge is sprinkling edges, turn arrows or centreline marks are water on plastic to set it so vehicles can down, another crew member brings a sprin­ pass over it in minutes. Lost you again? kling can , watering the plastic to cool it. It Read on. solidifies within minutes, even at Kamloops Road Runner readers may recall Wallace in mid-summer. As might be expected, there Libby and Jack Vandenberg from our Spring are plenty of funny looks and remarks from '92 issue, in a story about cross-hatching. passers-by: "No matter how much you water They were 'on the road' again with Mike it, it's not going to grow!" Rutledge, Norbert Ilner, Mike Sestrap and Alvin Timoffee as part of our Captain Ken Warren only thermoplastic crew. Most of the crew are seasonal About the locals: "The people here are employees; foreman Jack and very resilient. No matter what you throw at Mike R. are the only full-timers in them they dig in deep and keep coming this Surrey-based centreline oper­ back. You've got to respect them for it. Last ation. All of the crew typically year, the weather didn't co-operate for 'nor­ work Ll-hour days, taking only mal' logging. Loggers just got up a little ear­ every-other weekend off. They lier and worked a lot harder. " do take a week's break around About the tourists: "Over the last few each long weekend, when they years, we've had a lot of German tourists. have a chance to return home for They can 't believe this country-not many well-deserved R&R. people, clean water, clean air, open spaces. Between April and October, You get a real feeling of pride in your coun­ they renew intersection markings try." over the southern half of the About the weather: "You dress warm and province. (Thermoplastic is infre­ prepare for it, and you get into winter quently used in Regions 4 and 5 sports. I used to do a lot of hunting and because roads there are dirtier fishing. I still snow mobile. My wife and I and ice blades used in those find the Springs long and drawn out regions tend to remove the plas­ though. There's a lot of mud and it takes a tic layer.) long time before you see green grass. This Despite their travels and tra­ March, we 're going to tow our new Harley vails, most MoTH employees Davidson to Sacramento and tour Southern have never seen this crew in Nevada, Southern California and Arizona. action. Thermoplastic is a process of applying hot plastic to asphalt. It begins when two of the crew on a propane-fired 'mother truck ' break up heavy bricks of white plastic with mallets and chuck the chunks into a vat. In one sea- son , they melt some 200 tonnes of the stuff, Mike Rutledge) sprinkling water on plastic which is composed primarily of calcium so it will set quicker. carbonate bulked with glass beads to improve night reflection. This crew labors in dangerous traffic at a The plastic is heated to 200 degrees eel­ job few of us ever consider. They work cius before being poured down a chute together in a monotonous routine in con­ into a motorized lane-marking machine or fined trucks and motel rooms-constantly manual applicators pushed by Jack or on the move. Like all centreline crews , they another senior member of the crew. Even sacrifice long periods from their personal these secondary machines are heater­ lives for the benefit of you and 1. They gave equipped to keep the plastic liquid as it me renewed appreciation and respect for Al Pederson ) doing some touch up cools very quickly. the work life of field employees. 24 Road Runner Winter 1992/93

Stripping By John Coombs) Planning Services Branch

WIM stands for Weigh In Motion. It's a scale that, when stripped across a road surface, can weigh each vehicle axle as it crosses at highway speeds. The first Weigh In Motion (WIM) strips were installed last sum­ mer in various locations around the province including the Coquihalla Toll Booth. When WIM strips are put together with con­ ventional traffic count loops we can measure not only the type and weight of vehicle crossing that section of road, but also its speed. Direct telephone telemetry is also connected to the site. This makes it possible to see, in real time , the activity on a certain road segment. Together with other WIM installations, it will be possible to put information into a traffic model and measure the use of the road network. This information will go toward such things as research in road design and construction materials, traffic demand management, traf­ fic forecastings and determining system efficiency. The initial work in installation and site selection, awarding contracts, etc. , was done by Planning Services Branch, research and development team under Darius Kanga. The maintenance and incorporation of this new data source will be the responsibil­ ity of Planning Services, information resources group under Michael Trickey. The thrust for WIM carne through the internationally supported SHRP (Strategic Highway Research Project), which is a $150 million long-term project to better understand the conditions and factors affecting the road structures of the major highway networks in orth America. Sandy Mctvlillan, Transtec employee) seals the WIM stripping. on-Conforming Sign Aboriginal Issues, Project Director Removal In October, Minister Art Charbonneau announced that non-con­ Meet Mary Koyl, Project Director forming signs along highway rights-of-way are to be removed by of Aboriginal Issues-a new posi­ ovember 13th. tion in the Executive Branch. She "We have had a substantial number of complaints from the pub­ comes from the Ministry of Health lic and municipalities about illegal signs on highway rights-of-way. where she was Executive Director The time has come to ensure the ministry's signing policy is of the Support Services Division. adhered to and these particular ones are removed permanently," Mary is experienced in working said Charbonneau in his announcement. with Aboriginal peoples over a The only exception is for signs of substantial size (greater than range of high profile policy three square metres). These are being allowed to remain in recog­ issues. She has worked with the nition of the owner's cost to install them. Owners will be advised to Ministry of Finance and Corporate apply for a temporary permit not to exceed six years. Relations as Director, Aboriginal "I want to thank all the OHMs and their staff for carrying this Land Claims and as Director, Social Policy and Special campaign through," said Dan Doyle, ADM, Highway Operations. "It Projects with the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs. Her role with was not an easy campaign. In some areas, public consultation will MoTH is to aid in the resolution of issues between our min­ continue on the issue. But we 've made a good start toward a reso­ istry and the Aboriginal community. Welcome Mary. lution to the problem of non-conforming signs on the rights-of-way of our provincial highways. Road Runner Winter 1992/93 25

"While this program is not for all cross­ Bridges in Bulk ing applications, it is a real boon in remote areas ," says Chuck. "It's very difficult to get ready-mixed concrete to the site and this There has never been a truer axiom than method, of shipping pre-fabricated compo­ the one that says "the greatest asset any nents, is a much better choice. As well , the company has is its own employees." structure can be built by local hired equip­ Roy Buettner, Manager, Bridge ment operators with the ministry purchas­ Construction, Bridge Engineering Branch ing components, a further cost savings." proved that when he suggested the branch Hiring local equipment operators directly develop standardized modular bridge parts benefits the community. that can fit together, depending on the site. The Deka Bridge was the first pre-fabri­ With 27 years experience in the ministry, cated structure, built in South Cariboo 18 with Bridge Engineering Branch in District in 1991. Seven more modular units headquarters, Roy had seen modular Chuck) left) and Roy are under construction this fiscal year, bridges designed for other ministries and in again in South Cariboo , Okanagan/ the private sector. "There are two unique "We started work on the project in late Shuswap , North Peace , South Peace , features in modular bridges ," says Roy,"We 1990," says Chuck Hutchinson, Bridge Central Kootenay and South Island. A fur­ have standardized bridge sections so speci­ Construction Engineer, six years with ther three designs are completed and fications can easily be put together, Bridge Engineering and involved in the approximately 15 are presently being con­ depending on what's needed at the site. In design and implementation of the project. sidered for construction in the future. "Some modular units have been developed addition, all major components are prefab­ "So far, we 've worked on concrete struc­ and built, and we 're continuously working ricated in steel or precast concrete." tures," says Roy,"steel beamed modulars to develop standards for new modulars. " "The cost savings are substantial," says have been developed but haven't been Kang Ho , Senior Bridge Engineer. Regional or district staff come to Bridge built yet. That's our next goal." "Reduced costs in design (bridges are stan­ Engineering with a site plan and geotech report. The headquarters group (with input dardized, predesigned and predrafted as Peter Brett) Bridge Branch Director, has much as possible, it's just site specific com­ from Highway Engineering and Highway left on a nine month secondment with ponents must be completed), project super­ Environment) puts together the whole N.D. Lea Consultants to undertake bridge vision (because of reduced construction package, providing drawings and specifica­ inspection and repair in Tanzania. time) and; actual contract costs (as good as tions. All major components for the cross­ Kang Ho will be the Acting Director and , in some cases, less than construction ing structure are fabricated away from the during Peter's absence (December 7, costs on conventional structures) make this site, shipped to the location and connected 1992 to September 7, 1993). an excellent program. " by means of bolting , grouting and welding.

Gas.Ex Exploder

As reported in the last Road Runner, start zone near Duffey Lake. Scott this summer Snow Avalanche Programs Aitken, District Avalanche Technician began work on the installation of a for Duffey Lake, was the Project Gas.Ex remote detonating avalanche-con­ Manager for the installation. He had a trol system at a high-elevation avalanche busy summer.

Here are the pictures we promised.

Installing the exploder.

SWinging the exploder into place-toldyou it looked like an inverted flugel horn. 26 Road Runner Winter 1992/93

buttons on the signal poles also activate the Toy Intersection signals, complete with 'w alk' and 'd o n' t walk ' crosswalk signals. Educates Kids And it has the same cutting-edge tech­ By Sham Mahon) Specifications Writer) nology, traffic-control equipment that the Traffic Engineering Centre TEC installs in traffic-controller cabinets throughout the province: the latest in rack mounted detectors, mainframes and TEC British Co lu m b i a s c h o o ls will now designed components including pedestri­ have help in their efforts to get students an/vehicle cards, power supply cards, load home safe and so u nd, thanks to a little switches and advance warning flashers. known section of MoTH 's Highway The display was conceived and built by Engineering Electrical Section-the Traffic Dave Trodd (currently the supervisor at the Engineering Centre (TEC) in Victoria. This TEC) in 1983 for an electrical conference section has designed and built a travelling push buttons. The display can be operated being held in Victoria that year. It was display to raise traffic awareness among by an instructor or by the students them­ enlisted into a pilot project in Coquitlam school children. selves. schools. Due to its enormous popularity The two-part di splay is an exact scale The model operates as a real intersection and suc cess, ten more displays have been model (1/ 32 of actual size) of a typical would. A car approaching the intersection built by James Thomson and Associates in intersection complete with toy cars , operat­ activates a sensor loop under the road and Sidney. ing traffic lights and working pedestrian changes the traffic signals. Pedestrian pu sh Most of these units will be used to edu­ cate school children but can also be used for public displays, to educate regional ministry employees to help them effectively respond to public enquiries, and to train ministry engineers and electricians. The displays are available to all regions upon request. They can be modified by the TEC to reflect any changes each region (left to right) would like to see in its own display board. Gary Stajeubar, Wayne Murphy and Prince George, for example, requested Ray Pengellyfrom that cars be operated by push rods. Traffic Engineering Enquiries concerning the display can be Centre) set up the directed to Dave Trodd, Electrical Opera­ "toy " intersection. tions Supervisor at the TEC-387-3493.

The Stockholm Chariot

We saw this in the Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation employee publication-"In Motion." Apparently, after years of walking behind the oil distribu­ tor during crack sealing operations, Stockholm equipment operators, Gerard Toth and Sheldon Ruf decided there had to be a better way. Together, they designed what has come to be known as the "Stockholm Chariot" which allows them to sit and steer with their feet while pulled by the distributor. Materials used in the design include: 4" square tubing (8'10ng, 188 wall); 12"x3" Melroe pick up wheels (complete castor assembly, forks , bearings, wheels); two kitchen chairs made to swivel; and round pipe welded to flat plate to bolt on back of distributor. The "Stockholm Chariot" in action. Road Runner Winter 1992/93 27

Inland Ferry Standards Review

The inland ferry stan­ media November 18th, along dards review committee with a schedule th at outlined found that , though the when and where suggestions inland ferry system had a in the report would be imple­ good safety record and was mented. basically sound and operat­ "The media sensationalized ed by dedicated people, the report," said Captain McKi­ there was room for llop. "Th ey focussed on the improvement in the areas of inflammatory word s and management, signage, and ignored the fact that inland fer­ training as well as safety ries were in compliance with equipment and procedures. the Canada Shipping Act." Al Thomson, of the MV The media also made it look Omineca Princess, Francois like we were ill trained, said Lake route said,"My crew Captain Thomson. "This wasn't and I were very impressed the case. The committee intro­ with the professionalism of duced some scenarios we don't the review committee. We The review committee (left to right] usually apply during drills . found out things about ourselves and our standing: Captain Ken Millar) Peter We'll be ready for anything next time." c qu iprnc nt , and identified areas for Sandlund (Adoisor, private consultant), improvement, which we started working on The public, on the other hand, tended to RearAdmiral Robert Yanow (chair), right away." support "their" ferries. In fact , users of the Earl Lund P.Eng (MoTI-! ChiefHighway Albion ferry said they thought what wa s Of the 17 vessels in the fleet, three: the Engineer), Dave Matland (Staff said was unfair and a little too critical. MV Omineca Princess, the Big Bar reaction Representative) BCGEU) and sitting: Our minister, Art Charbonneau com­ ferry and the Needles ferry received good John Green (Canadian Coast Guard mended the thoroughness of the review reports. Ten met minimum requirements Regional Operations Superintendent) Ship committee headed by retired Rear Admiral and four needed to be brought up to stan­ Safety Branch Western Region), Robert Yanow. Other members were Earl dard. (The Needles ferry was heralded as Captain Michael McHale Lund, MoTH Chief Highway Engineer, Capt. being an outstanding example of what can (Advisorfrom B.C. Ferry Corporation) be achieved in safety equipment and in Ken Millar, MoTH District Marine Manager, professional deportment of operators.) John Green, Regional Superintendent, Photos: Ken Millar Canadian Coast Guard and David Matland Though the Albion ferry was one of the from BCGEU. four found lacking,"In my opinion, the Captain Michael Mcl-Iale, conducts an people who operate the Albion route are "abandon ship" drill on the Anscomb. All matters identified as unacceptable excellent," said Captain standards of safety and emer­ Elgin McKillop , seconded gency procedures are being for up to one year to the tackled on a priority basis. In Lower Mainland as Dis­ the case of the Lytton ferry , trict Marine Manager from steps were taken immediately B.C. Ferry Corporation. so safety equipment and proce­ "They take their job very dures met standards. The total seriously and are commit­ cost to implement all improve­ ted to providing an exem­ ments is estimated at $135,000. plary service. At first they Organizational changes rec­ were hurt but then looked ommended in the report will at it in a positive way­ require further review. An things were brought to annual audit will be made to their attention that would make sure ferry operations allow them to provide a remain safe and efficient. safer and more effective Copies of the report are service to the public. " available through the ministry The full Inland Ferry library or call your regional Report was given to the Public Information Officer.