For more information, visit www.MassTransitmag.com/10065105 APRIL/MAY 2017 | MassTransitmag.com | Mass Transit | 45 N RESPONSE TO THE RISE IN INCIdents of aggressive behavior on the systems Ohio Transit Risk Pool Members operate, we have endeavored to create and provide training tools they can use to equip operators. Specifi cally, we have developed two training modules. Th e fi rst module, “Aggression Management,” is an in-person training session providing hands-on tools to be able to measure aggression as it escalates. Th is ability to gauge the level of aggression in each situation then provides confi dence to respond before the situation escalates. Th e most important aspect of this training is that it gives the individual an ability to recognize their own aggression level and control it. Controlling our own aggression when confronted with someone displaying aggressive behavior goes a long way to determining if the outcome will be positive or negative. Th e second module was developed to be an addition to our Operator Training Program. Th e training was developed in conjunction with TAPTCO and incorporates some of the concepts in the fi rst, but focuses more on tools to deescalate confrontational situations. Th e training utilizes techniques taught and employed by law enforcement to interact with agitated individuals in stressful situations. Th ese techniques have proven themselves to be very eff ective when properly employed. OTRP directs our members to take Wadsworth, Ohio I an organizational wide approach to responding to incidents occurring on their systems. Th is requires that dispatchers and supervisors be trained in these areas as well and are responsive to situations so operators do not feel they are on their own. We also encourage our members to partner with local law enforcement and even off er them training opportunities where possible, so they understand the system and are better able to respond when needed. Th e bottom line is we are trying to equip operators to recognize when a situation is escalating and to respond in an appropriate and timely fashion to prevent the situation from turning violent. Th e Ohio Transit Risk Pool is a risk sharing/self-insurance pool established in 1994. Its membership is made up of 10 public transit agencies in the state of Ohio. Collectively our members operate approximately 25 million miles annually utilizing about 1,200 vehicles and employing roughly 1,500 people. Kenneth F. Reed, AIC, ARM-P Loss Control Services Manager, Ohio Transit Risk Pool
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