For years Calgary Transit has followed an idle-reduction program as a way to:
- Save money by burning less fuel.
- Reducing wear and tear on engines.
- Protecting the health of the bus operators, passenger and the general public that are in the vicinity of the buses.
- Reduce the overall impact on air quality.
The City of Calgary’s Vehicle Idling Reduction Policy (Green Driving Standard) states:
“City Transit vehicles will not be parked with its engine operating for more than 5 minutes unless it is essential for performance work. Exceptions are during an initial engine warm-up period in weather below-10 Celsius and during periods of extreme cold weather below-10 Celsius. When engines must be left operating, for any reason, the operator will remain with the unit.”
Some exceptions to the vehicle idling policy are:
- In situations that may compromise the safety of operators, such as when parked in unlit areas.
- During the buildup of air pressure for brakes and suspension.
- For the operation of equipment integral to the vehicle
- During cold weather conditions where temperatures fall below -10 Celsius
