Drone Activity, Detection and Jamming
CSC reported that radiofrequency (RF) drone detection systems are now active at 22 institutions, providing coverage across 27 sites. CSC indicated that they have seen a decrease in drone activity, which they attribute to enforcement efforts and collaboration with police agencies. However, UCCO-SACC-CSN raised concerns about evolving threats, including cellular-enabled drones and continued use of traditional methods such as throw-overs. Warkworth Institution remains the only site with active jamming capability, with another planned in Quebec. As a layered approach, this new technology at Warkworth shows promise.
Protective Equipment – Vests
CSC acknowledged ongoing delays in the delivery of protective vests, with waiting times averaging four to five months. A total of 1,225 vests were ordered or distributed last fiscal year. The Committee was informed that all institutions now have sizing kits. Concerns remain regarding storage and handling of vests. UCCO-SACC-CSN emphasized the need for immediate action to ensure members have proper protection.
Body Scanners and Security Equipment
CSC continues to expand body scanner installations across multiple institutions. It is expected that 12 new sites will receive the scanners in the 2026/2027 fiscal year. Institutions are already planning their arrivals, to be able to install them as soon as possible. UCCO-SACC-CSN did express concerns over the older systems that were piloted at two sites, and CSC is working with vendors to upgrade these systems. UCCO-SACC-CSN stressed the importance of consistent implementation, proper training, and evaluation.
Fleet Vehicles
CSC reported progress on escort-vehicle procurement (60 four-passenger units and 14 ten-passenger units), expected for delivery in 2026/2027. UCCO-SACC-CSN also raised concerns about aging patrol vehicles and the need for a replacement plan; CSC will investigate and share a plan once established. Winter tires will now be mandatory on all fleet vehicles from December 1st to March 15th, and the fleet administration tool will be updated accordingly. Where provincial winter-tire timelines are longer, the provincial requirement will apply.
National Health and Safety Policy Committee
UCCO-SACC-CSN attended the National Health & Safety Policy Committee meeting on April 23, where several critical issues impacting the safety, protection, and working conditions of correctional officers were discussed. While CSC continues to present initiatives and programs, UCCO-SACC-CSN raised serious concerns regarding inconsistencies, lack of implementation, and gaps between policy and frontline reality.
Employee Protection Protocol (EPP) – Serious Concerns Raised
CSC reported that more than 400 Employee Protection Protocol (EPP) cases were initiated over the past five years, and about 30% advanced to full threat risk assessments. UCCO-SACC-CSN raised concerns about uneven regional applications: Quebec represents about 53% of active files and leads in initial submissions, raising questions about underuse or inconsistent application elsewhere. Cases were also brought to the Committee where EPP was not applied despite clear need. CSC acknowledged the issue, flagged it internally, and will address it at a future meeting.
Heat Protocol and Workplace Safety
A national heat protocol has now been approved and is expected to be distributed to all regions shortly. As the summer months are upon us very soon, UCCO-SACC-CSN will monitor implementation closely to ensure it reflects the realities faced by members working in extreme conditions.
Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)
Extensive discussions took place regarding changes to the Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) process. CSC is introducing new templates with the intent of streamlining hazard assessments. UCCO-SACC-CSN raised serious concerns that standardized scoring could mask the true level of risk across different posts and operational environments. CSC responded that these are “just templates,” but UCCO-SACC-CSN emphasized that oversimplification of hazards could directly impact member safety. The work that will need to be done through the local health and safety committees will be vital in ensuring all hazards associated with our work are captured in these documents.
Noise Study – Firing Range Safety
Following a work refusal at the Federal Training Center related to firing range noise exposure, CSC has initiated a formal noise study to assess the risks to correctional officers and instructors. The process began on October 27, 2025, when the issue was first raised. Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) directed CSC to proceed with a comprehensive noise study, with a final determination on safety measures to be made once the study is complete. CSC began engaging external expertise in November 2025, with a formal request for proposal finalized in December. The project officially started on April 7, 2026.
The study will examine:
- Noise exposure levels for both staff and instructors;
- The maximum number of shots that can be safely fired per day;
- The effectiveness of different types of hearing protection, including double protection (ear plugs and earmuffs).
Noise testing is scheduled to begin on May 17, 2026. The study is expected to proceed in multiple phases, with a Phase 3 report anticipated by the end of June, and full completion expected by mid-August 2026.
The National Health and Safety Policy Committee (NHSPC) will remain actively engaged throughout the process.
PNEP, OPS and Harm Reduction Measures
CSC confirmed that there will be no expansion of PNEP into minimum-security institutions, and that current sites will focus on increasing participation rather than expanding the program. The Union also raised concerns regarding implementation inconsistencies and lack of clarity at certain sites. CSC further confirmed that several recommendations from Dr. Leonard’s external review will not be implemented, including proposals such as supervised tattoo programs and supervised smoking rooms.
In Solidarity,
Your National Executive
