Policing Standards Manual 2000 Overview

Policing Standards Manual (2000) - Marked General Patrol Vehicles

• Legislative/Regulatory Requirements:
  • Municipalities are responsible for vehicle infrastructure supporting police services, per the Police Services Act (PSA).
  • Section 15 of the Equipment and Use of Force Regulation specifies prohibited vehicle types for general patrol.
  • Occupational Health and Safety Act outlines employer/employee responsibilities related to workplace equipment.
  • This guideline only applies to marked general patrol vehicles; specialized vehicles (e.g., surveillance, canines) are excluded. Police services retain full flexibility for those.

Sample Board Policy

• Policy: The Chief of Police will:
  • Establish procedures defining marked patrol vehicle functions.
  • Guarantee marked vehicles meet specifications.
  • Ensure regular maintenance, inspection, and replacement of marked vehicles.
  • Consult employee representatives regarding vehicle acquisition.

Police Service Guidelines - Procedures

• Function of Marked General Patrol Vehicles:
  • General patrol and service calls.
  • Emergency response.
  • Personnel/equipment transport.
  • Suspect apprehension pursuit.

Equipment Specifications

• Vehicle Designation:

  • Must be manufacturer-designated "police packages".
  • Compact/sub-compact vehicles are not permitted for patrol use.
  • Solid white colour with visible "police" marking.

• Reflective Striping:

  • Municipal police use blue/red combinations.
  • Provincial police use blue/gold combinations.

• Standard Equipment (General):

  • Compatible engine and heavy-duty options where applicable.
  • Automatic transmission, power steering, police suspension.
  • Power hydraulic ABS braking.
  • Highest output alternator, amp-hr/CCA battery.
  • Cooling system, engine/transmission coolers.
  • Frame, body mounts/unibody, police-rated tires.
  • Adjustable tilt wheel, air conditioning, dual airbags.
  • Dash-mounted driver/passenger controls.
  • Electric remote outside mirrors, trim panels.
  • Certified speedometer, police radio/electronics.
  • High-quality, 6-way adjustable driver/passenger seats (where applicable).

• Emergency Equipment and Lighting:

  • Meets Highway Traffic Act emergency lighting standards (visible 360 degrees).
  • 100-watt minimum forward-facing siren, not interfering with radiator cooling.
  • Public address system.
  • Safety equipment to fulfill general patrol functions.

Maintenance and Records

• Maintenance Schedule:

  • Police services must adhere to or exceed manufacturer's maintenance schedules for vehicle servicing.

• Records:

  • Accurate maintenance and accident records should be maintained. This includes regular tests and inspections by qualified technicians.
  • Replaced parts must meet original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications.

• Employee Consultation:

  • Consultation with designated employee representatives prior to acquiring patrol vehicles.