The TTC is being accused of going to extreme lengths to stop operators from using cellphones while in uniform.
TTC union president Bob Kinnear sent a letter to employees Sunday, warning them about a blitz on workers using phones even when they're not behind the wheel or on break.
Kinnear says he's been advised that under no circumstances are employees to use their cellphones while in uniform, whether they're on layover, waiting for a vehicle or on break.
The union leader says he estimates there are 40 to 50 people out of work due to using their phone, with complaints pouring in for about two weeks.
"It's obviously causing some concerns with our members," Kinnear says.
TTC Chair Karen Stintz says management isn't doing anything different with the transit commission's cellphone policy.
"There's nothing that management is doing to agitate the employees. This is an attempt by Mr. Kinnear to agitate his members," Stintz says.
TTC spokesman Brad Ross says the TTC's cellphone policy is being enforced consistently.
He says if an operator is on their break and off their vehicle, they may make a phone call. They may also call 911 in an emergency.
Ross says he can't confirm how many people have lost their jobs due to using a cellphone. He says there is a disciplinary process that needs to take place.
"You don't just lose your job," Ross says.
Kinnear, however, says it appears the TTC is now backing down from the policy.
In a report published by the Toronto Star, Kinnear noted an example of cellphone use that had an employee fired. A 50-year-old streetcar driver was fired after using her phone to take a video of a passenger who spat on her during a fare dispute.
The driver says she stopped her vehicle before using her phone to record the passenger.
She was later reinstated after making an appeal.
TTC workers have come under increased scrutiny after photos surfaced of employees sleeping on the job and using their phones behind the wheel.
