TOW & STORAGE SERVICE OPERATORS PROGRAM MAKING “POSITIVE IMPACT”

March 31, 2022 · 0 Comments

Officers from the Traffic Unit of the Caledon Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) conducted inspections and compliance investigations of tow trucks as part of the new OPP Provincial Tow Program.

“Three tow trucks recently failed the inspection and one company was suspended from the program,” say Police. “As part of the Provincial Tow Program, Caledon OPP implemented the Tow & Storage Service Operators (TSSO) program on January 1, 2022. This program was launched province-wide to regulate tow truck operators, ensure vehicle and equipment standards are met, regulate vehicle impound operations, and protect the public. TSSO’s wishing to work with the OPP must apply, be approved, and are subject to rules. Violations may result in the suspension of a towing and storage operator.

“On March 8, 2022, Caledon OPP conducted scheduled inspections of tow trucks for a company applying to the TSSO program. Of the five commercial vehicles that were inspected, three failed the requirements due to vehicle safety and equipment standards. The issues identified included bald dolly tires, broken hydraulic lifts, broken winches, and broken back-up alarms. Tickets and warnings were issued and these trucks will not be operating in Caledon until the issues are rectified and receive a passing inspection.

“Additionally, on March 22, 2022, Caledon OPP suspended a TSSO from the list of approved operators for not abiding with the program’s terms and conditions. This operator will no longer be permitted to attend scenes with the OPP for police requested or legislated tows. The suspension is effective and the TSSO may appeal the decision.”

The application package, new list of mandatory TSSO equipment, guidelines for providing towing services to the OPP and other information are available at www.opp.ca.