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Walmart Adopts Hydrogen-Powered Nikola Trucks for Its Fleet

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The new hydrogen fuel cell electric semi-truck from Walmart Canada is now operating in Mississauga, Ontario, marking a significant step in the retailer’s initiative to adopt alternative propulsion technologies for its fleet.

Walmart Canada has introduced a hydrogen-powered electric semi-truck, an innovative vehicle that emits zero exhaust emissions. The Nikola EV Class 8 hydrogen truck has a range of approximately 800 kilometers and can potentially prevent about 97 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually, according to the manufacturer. Walmart Canada is also one of the first retail fleets in North America to utilize this type of truck.

The introduction of hydrogen trucks allows for longer trips with alternative energy, increasing the range compared to currently available electric fleet options. This first hydrogen fuel cell vehicle will be deployed in Ontario for extended trips, marking an advancement in using alternative propulsion technologies for longer hauls.

Gonzalo Gebara, President and CEO of Walmart Canada, emphasizes that the introduction of this vehicle is a crucial step in the company’s journey to become more sustainable. He asserts that Walmart Canada is committed to adopting new technologies and promoting positive changes within the industry.

Steve Girsky, President and CEO of Nikola, expresses pride in his company’s support for Walmart’s sustainability initiatives. He adds that this collaboration demonstrates a shared commitment to a zero-emission future and a positive impact on communities and the planet.

Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Electrification, explains that Ontario is heavily investing in the production of clean and reliable energy, creating an environment conducive to business investment and job creation. He notes that Ontario is rapidly building its hydrogen economy with new production projects to help forward-thinking companies in the province transition to hydrogen-powered vehicles and reduce their emissions.

Michael Buna, Senior Director of the National Fleet for Walmart Canada, indicates that the company’s ambitious goal is to power 100% of its fleet with alternative energy. The introduction of the hydrogen electric semi-truck is a significant milestone toward achieving this goal.

The Nikola hydrogen fuel cell semi-truck transports high-pressure gaseous hydrogen in specialized tanks. The hydrogen then passes through the fuel cell assembly and is converted into electricity by combining with oxygen, producing only water vapor as a byproduct. This electrical energy is transferred to the high-voltage power system, which charges the truck’s batteries and powers the wheels via an electric axle.

According to Natural Resources Canada, hydrogen is the simplest, lightest, and most abundant element on Earth. It possesses the highest energy per unit of all fuels and plays a crucial role in the transition to a carbon-neutral future.

CDK Global Faces Significant Disruption Due to Cyberattack

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sophie
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CDK Global, a leading software provider for automotive dealerships across North America, is currently experiencing a significant disruption due to a cyberattack accompanied by a ransom demand. The company has notified its clients that full system restoration may not occur until the end of the month, with normal dealership operations not expected to resume until Sunday, June 30th. Media sources report that CDK is actively working to bring critical applications back online and has advised clients to consider alternative measures for their end-of-month financial closing processes.

The impact of this disruption extends deeply into both automotive and truck dealerships, as well as specialized vehicle maintenance garages. The shift back to manual operations, hastily readopted in response to the outage, is severely limiting their ability to process orders, directly affecting sales and service operations.

In an industry where technology is integral to the efficiency of services and sales, this incident highlights the substantial vulnerabilities that dealerships and garages face in the event of IT failures. The criminal group believed to be based in Eastern Europe is demanding a ransom in the tens of millions of dollars. Ongoing negotiations leave the situation unresolved and subject to further developments.

CDK Global, known for its cloud-based management software—a technology that allows data storage and access via the internet rather than through a local computer system—handles vital operations such as vehicle procurement, sales, financing, insurance, and the maintenance and repair of vehicles. The company claims to have a three-tier cybersecurity strategy aimed at preventing, protecting against, and responding to cyber threats. Nevertheless, this breach raises questions about the effectiveness of these security measures and the future challenges in bolstering the defenses of critical infrastructure within this sector.

Several truck recalls have been issued by Paccar, Volvo, Mack, and Daimler

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sophie
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Several recalls have been issued by various truck manufacturers, including Paccar, Volvo, Mack, and Daimler, affecting numerous units. Below, you will find a summary of these recalls along with relevant associated information. The owners of the affected units will be contacted shortly.

PACCAR

Transport Canada Recall # 2024-335
Last Updated 2024-06-14
Manufacturer Recall Number 24KWG / 24PBG

Issue:
On certain trucks, the ball stud on the drag link and/or tie rod may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the stud could fail and cause a loss of steering control.

Safety Risk:
A loss of steering control could create the risk of a crash.

Corrective Actions:
PACCAR will notify owners by mail and advise you to contact a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, replace the drag link and/or tie rod.

Make Model Model Year(s) Affected : KENWORTH T380 2025, KENWORTH T480 2025, KENWORTH T680 2025, KENWORTH T880 2025, KENWORTH W900 2025, KENWORTH W990 2025, PETERBILT 220 2025, PETERBILT 537 2025, PETERBILT 548 2025, PETERBILT 567 2025, PETERBILT 579 2025, PETERBILT 589 2025

VOLVO

Transport Canada Recall # 2024-312
Last Updated 2024-06-14
Manufacturer Recall Number RVXX2402

Issue:
On certain trucks, the ball stud connecting the drag link to the steering arm may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the stud could fail and cause a loss of steering control. Note: For the VNR model, this recall affects only the VNRe model.

Safety Risk:
A loss of steering control could create the risk of a crash.

Corrective Actions:
Volvo Trucks advises not to drive the truck until the recall repairs are completed. Volvo Trucks will notify owners by mail and advise you to contact a dealership to arrange for an inspection. The dealer will replace the drag link, as necessary.

Make Model Model Year(s) Affected : VOLVO VHD 2025, VOLVO VNL 2025, VOLVO VNR 2025

Transport Canada Recall # 2024-314
Last Updated 2024-06-14
Manufacturer Recall Number RVXX2403

Issue:
On certain trucks, the steering gear may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, power steering fluid could leak and cause a loss of power steering assist. Note: For the VNR model, this recall affects both VNR and VNRe models.

Safety Risk:
A loss of power steering assist can cause a sudden increase in steering effort and create the risk of a crash.

Corrective Actions:
Volvo Trucks will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your truck to a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, replace the steering gear.

Make Model Model Year(s) Affected : VOLVO VHD 2025, VOLVO VNL 2025, VOLVO VNR 2025

MACK

Transport Canada Recall # 2024-313
Last Updated 2024-06-14
Manufacturer Recall Number SC0465

Issue:
On certain trucks, the ball stud connecting the drag link to the steering arm may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the stud could fail and cause a loss of steering control.

Safety Risk:
A loss of steering control could create the risk of a crash.

Corrective Actions:
Mack advises not to drive the truck until the recall repairs are completed. Mack will notify owners by mail and advise you to contact a dealership to arrange for an inspection. The dealer will replace the drag link, as necessary.

Make Model Model Year(s) Affected : MACK ANTHEM 2025, MACK GRANITE 2025, MACK TERRAPRO 2025

DAIMLER TRUCK NORTH AMERICA

Transport Canada Recall # 2024-315
Last Updated 2024-06-14
Manufacturer Recall Number D24R6

Issue:
On certain trucks, the ball stud on the tie rod(s) may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the stud could fail and cause a loss of steering control.

Safety Risk:
A loss of steering control could create the risk of a crash.

Corrective Actions:
Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) will notify the owners by mail. The corrective actions for this recall are under development.

Make Model Model Year(s) Affected : FREIGHTLINER 108SD 2025, FREIGHTLINER 114SD 2025, FREIGHTLINER BUSINESS CLASS M2 2025, FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA 2025, WESTERN STAR 47X 2025, WESTERN STAR 49X 2025

Transport Canada Recall # 2024-310
Last Updated 2024-06-14
Manufacturer Recall Number F1002

Issue:
On certain vehicles, the snap rings for the wheel hub fasteners could be missing. As a result, the wheel hub fasteners could loosen and cause the wheel(s) to detach.

Safety Risk:
A wheel separation could cause a loss of control and increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, a wheel that separates could create a hazard for others.

Corrective Actions:
Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) will notify owners by mail. The corrective actions for this recall are under development.

Make Model Model Year(s) Affected: FREIGHTLINER 114SD 2025, FREIGHTLINER BUSINESS CLASS M2 2025

 

The Colorful World of Engines: An Overview of Truckers’ Preferences

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sophie
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The Colorful World of Engines: An Overview of Truckers’ Preferences | In the world of trucking, every detail counts, and the preference for certain brands and engine colors is no exception. Based on a survey of over 298,000 Facebook followers, we’ve delved into the colorful universe of heavy-duty vehicle engines to discover which are the favorites and why. Here’s an overview of the five most popular engines according to the responses we received:

CAT: 37%
The yellow of Caterpillar engines is iconic in the world of heavy-duty engines, often associated with robustness and reliability. These engines are widely recognized for their endurance and ability to perform in challenging conditions.

Patrick expresses a clear preference for the yellow engines of Caterpillar, evoking unwavering support for this distinctive color and what it represents in terms of performance and reliability. Several other users, such as Sébastien J. and Michel T., also emphasized that “a real engine is yellow,” highlighting their preference for Caterpillar.

Cummins: 24%
The bright red of Cummins engines is often associated with power and performance. These engines are known for their excellent torque and reliability, making Cummins a popular choice among truckers for various demanding applications.

Eric CB. mentioned his positive experience with the Cummins N14, highlighting its impressive longevity with more than 4,400,000 km on the odometer. Daniel L. praised Cummins for its combination of power and reliability, ranking it among the best alongside Cat.

Detroit Diesel: 22%
Detroit engines are known for their reliability and fuel efficiency. These engines are appreciated for their longevity and require fewer frequent repairs.

Sylvain A. specifically mentions that his Detroit engine “runs like new” even after 780,000 km, underlining the significant longevity of these engines. Michel C. enjoys the distinctive sound of the Detroit Series 60, appreciating its unique features.

Mack: 8%
Mack engines are respected for their robustness, although they are mentioned less frequently than other brands.

Mathieu MB and Dan B. unequivocally state that Mack engines are by far their favorite. Pierre St-L. supports this by talking about durability, unlike other engines which, according to him, need to be rebuilt much earlier.

Paccar: 7%
Paccar is sometimes criticized for certain limitations, but it is also appreciated for its fuel economy and accessible purchase cost.

Pascal P., as a broker, notes the economic benefits of Paccar engines, highlighting that they are cheaper to purchase and fuel-efficient, making them attractive for budget-conscious operations.

And what does the trucking industry say?

Cummins is renowned for its powerful and efficient diesel engines. The X15 engine is particularly notable, offering up to 605 horsepower and 2,050 ft-lb of torque. This engine is known for its improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, meeting future regulations without significant changes to its ‘architecture’. Cummins integrates advanced technologies such as predictive gear shifting and energy efficiency optimization through its collaboration with Eaton Cummins and Cummins-Meritor, making it a leader in the trucking industry.

The PACCAR MX engines, including the MX-13, are highly appreciated for their performance, fuel economy, and reliability. These engines feature redesigned internal components that improve fuel economy by up to 3.4% depending on the model and application. They are known for their robust design and advanced combustion technology, ensuring optimal power while adhering to strict emission standards. The MX-13, for example, offers up to 510 horsepower and 1,850 lb-ft of torque, making it suitable for a range of demanding applications​​.

Caterpillar, Detroit Diesel, Mack, and Volvo are well known in the trucking industry. Caterpillar has historically been recognized for its robust engines ideal for heavy-duty applications. Detroit Diesel is often noted for its fuel efficiency and compliance with environmental standards. Mack engines are famous for their durability and power, and Volvo is recognized for its innovative and environmentally friendly engine solutions.

The future of truck engines is decidedly turning towards green technologies, with an emphasis on reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency. Truck manufacturers, like Volvo, are at the forefront of this transformation, investing in the development of battery electric engines and hydrogen fuel cells. Volvo, for example, predicts that battery-electric trucks will represent the majority of zero-emission vehicles on the roads by 2040, while continuing to develop internal combustion engines for specific uses where electric alternatives are not yet viable​​.

Hydrogen is also seen as a key energy vector for the future, particularly in long-distance transport applications where direct electrification poses challenges. Volvo and Daimler have formed a joint venture to develop together hydrogen fuel cell technologies, highlighting the potential of this technology to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the trucking industry.

Moreover, advancements in recharging infrastructure and policy incentives will play a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of these clean technologies. Studies suggest that by 2035, battery-electric and hydrogen trucks could become less expensive to purchase, operate, and maintain than their diesel counterparts. Only time will tell the truth!

In conclusion, an engine’s color often reflects its brand and what it stands for in terms of performance, reliability, and efficiency. Preferences vary based on personal experiences and the specific needs of each trucker, but one thing is clear: each color tells a story of loyalty, performance, and identity for those who drive. For enthusiasts, every engine’s roar or jake brake’s rumble is intense music that resonates deeply.

Truckers: Heading Towards Extinction or Evolution?

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sophie
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Truckers: Heading Towards Extinction or Evolution? | Automation in the road transport sector is often touted as an imminent revolution. According to an article by Filipe Dimas on MSN, autonomous trucks already cruising highways to deliver goods signal a paradigm shift where human presence is becoming less necessary on board.

“We already see it: autonomous trucks are making long journeys on highways to deliver goods,” he writes. “While nowadays there is still a person in many trucks in case of AI failure, it is becoming less and less necessary for truckers to drive all night to make a timely delivery across the country. As autonomous driving technology improves, the traditional trucker may face the same fate as the assembly line worker.” (translated by AI)

However, this vision of total automation overly simplifies the complexity of transitioning to fully autonomous vehicles, which raises multiple logistical, ethical, and legal challenges.

Experts suggest that while technological advances promise to reduce costs and accidents and increase efficiency, the reality on the ground remains complex. According to a study by Stanford University, autonomous technology still has major hurdles to overcome to reliably manage unpredictable and varied road conditions. Moreover, truckers do much more than just drive; they also handle the loading and unloading of goods, vehicle maintenance, and real-time adjustments necessary during deliveries—tasks that are difficult to fully automate.

Finally, the role of truckers may not disappear but evolve. According to a report by the American Trucking Associations, it is likely that truckers will work in tandem with autonomous technologies for more specialized functions such as system monitoring and logistics management. This technological coexistence could not only maintain human employment but also improve working conditions by reducing long driving hours, while still retaining human expertise for critical decisions and emergency management, as stated in the report.

These perspectives indicate that, far from making truckers obsolete, technological advancements could actually transform the profession, requiring ongoing adaptation and retraining of workers to navigate this new landscape of road transport. And this future is not just around the corner…

Long Haul: Hunting The Highway Serial Killers by Frank Figliuzzi, former FBI assistant director

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sophie
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Long Haul: Hunting The Highway Serial Killers by Frank Figliuzzi, former FBI assistant director | Long-haul trucking, often romanticized as a life of freedom on the open road, may also be a cover for darker activities. According to a new investigative book by former FBI assistant director Frank Figliuzzi, this profession’s inherent solitude and mobility make it an ideal backdrop for serial killers. His book, “Long Haul – Hunting The Highway Serial Killers,” unveils the disturbing ties between several serial killers and the trucking industry.

Figliuzzi’s research indicates that notorious killers like Keith Hunter Jesperson, known as the “Happy Face Killer,” and Wayne Adam Ford utilized their trucking routes to execute and conceal their crimes across multiple states. Jesperson, a Canadian trucker, infamously manipulated his nomadic lifestyle to murder women at various truck stops and rest areas during the 1990s. Ford, on the other hand, surrendered to authorities after killing several women, revealing the gruesome extent of his travels and crimes.

The book also explores how the trucking lifestyle facilitates such crimes. Truckers can pick up victims in one state, commit the crime in another, and dispose of evidence in a third, complicating law enforcement efforts due to jurisdictional challenges. This pattern is not just a tale of isolated incidents but a significant trend, with over 850 murders potentially linked to truckers, as identified by the FBI’s Highway Serial Killings initiative.

Additionally, Figliuzzi delves into the subculture of trucking, accompanying truck drivers for thousands of miles to gain insight into their world. This immersion revealed not only the physical and mental demands of the job but also the potential for isolation to contribute to such criminal behavior. The book provides a poignant look at the victims, often marginalized individuals whose disappearances might go unnoticed.

Through this comprehensive examination, Figliuzzi sheds light on a segment of society where the open road can turn sinister, urging better awareness and stronger safeguards against these highway predators. His work serves as a call to action, emphasizing the need for more cohesive law enforcement strategies to address the disturbing pattern of highway murders linked to the trucking industry.

A map created by the Highway Serial Killings initiative is covered with red dots marking the 500 locations where bodies have been discovered along America’s highways over the past 30 years (FBI)
A map created by the Highway Serial Killings initiative is covered with red dots marking the 500 locations where bodies have been discovered along America’s highways over the past 30 years (FBI)

Illicit Transportation of Alcohol and Tobacco Across Blue Water Bridge

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sophie
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Recently, substantial fines were imposed on three truck drivers for illegally transporting alcohol and tobacco across the Blue Water Bridge. The operation uncovered significant quantities of contraband hidden within their vehicles as they attempted to cross the border.

During a routine check on July 10, 2023, border officials apprehended Veerapathira Maniyakaghan, a 56-year-old trucker from Brampton, after discovering 529 bottles of liquor in his truck, despite his declaration of only one bottle. The hidden stash, secured from floor to ceiling with ratchet straps, was valued at approximately US$14,000, potentially avoiding over $24,300 in Canadian duties. Maniyakaghan faced a court, where he was fined $30,000 after pleading guilty, a sum suggested by both the prosecution and defense given the severity of the smuggling effort.

On the same day, Senthuran Kandasamy, a 36-year-old driver from Ottawa, was caught with 72 bottles of high-end spirits, including Grey Goose vodka and Johnnie Walker Blue Label Scotch whisky. Claiming the liquor was for a large birthday celebration, Kandasamy attempted to bypass $5,061 in duties. He was subsequently fined $7,500 after his guilty plea.

Additionally, Huacheng Zhu, a 47-year-old trucker, was fined $1,000 on June 10, 2023, for attempting to smuggle 25 cartons of Marlboro cigarettes, significantly more than the seven cartons he initially claimed to have purchased. The deceit was unveiled after an officer verified his purchase at a duty-free store and discovered additional cartons cleverly hidden in his vehicle.

The confiscation of these goods marks a clear violation of border regulations, and the individuals involved have been sternly warned about future crossings. The incidents underscore the ongoing challenges faced by border officials in curbing smuggling activities that undermine the integrity of Canadian commerce and border security.

Alcohol and tobacco limits

Top 5 Desired Changes in Trucking According to Truck Drivers

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sophie
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Top 5 Desired Changes in Trucking According to Truck Drivers | In the world of trucking, every driver has their own vision of the necessary improvements to make the profession more enjoyable and efficient. Recently, we asked the members of our community of nearly 300,000 followers: “The first thing I would change in trucking is…” Here are the five most frequently cited changes.

1. Regulation and Training Overhaul
A significant number of truck drivers express the need to reduce unnecessary and costly regulations that complicate their daily lives. They also desire a revision of training programs to include more practical road experience, better preparing future truck drivers for the realities of the profession.

2. Improvement of Respect and Education for Motorists
The lack of respect from motorists towards truck drivers is a major concern. Road professionals call for better driver education for all to improve coexistence on the roads and enhance safety for all users.

3. Increase in Wages and Improvement of Working Conditions
The issue of compensation and working conditions is frequently raised. Truck drivers ask for wage increases that reflect the real value of their work and fair conditions, including the recognition of overtime after 40 hours of work and access to a pension fund.

4. Reform of Logistics Systems and Intermediaries
There is palpable frustration regarding the role of intermediaries in the logistics industry. Truck drivers criticize certain practices by intermediaries who, they feel, reduce their share of the profits without effectively contributing to the transport value chain.

5. Modification of Imposed Technologies, like ELOG
The mandatory use of technologies such as the electronic logbook is often criticized. Many truck drivers find it restrictive and poorly suited to their needs, and they advocate for a more flexible approach that would allow them to choose the technological tools most suited to their work.

Besides these points, debates within the truck driver community clearly show that two major concerns also affect the sector: racism towards newcomers and resistance to the authority of road controllers. Although these two issues are distinct, they raise important questions about culture and practices in the trucking industry.

On one hand, there is notable tension concerning racism towards newcomers, which can be exacerbated by serious incidents or accidents on the road. This phenomenon underscores a crucial need to promote a more respectful and secure integration for these new truck drivers. Improved training on safe driving practices, combined with diversity and inclusion awareness programs, could help reduce these tensions and improve safety for all.

On the other hand, resistance to the authority of road controllers reveals a distrust of regulations and interventions perceived as arbitrary or overly punitive. This indicates the need for more transparent communication and collaboration between truck drivers and authorities to clarify expectations and rules, ensuring that controls are fair and understood by all.

By addressing these two issues separately but proactively, the industry can work to create a fairer and safer work environment. Eradicating racism must be a top priority, clearly affirming that discrimination has no place in trucking, nor in any other sector. Simultaneously, improving relations with regulatory authorities can help reduce friction and build mutual respect essential for efficient and safe transport operations.

Furthermore, the “phenomenon of incorporated drivers,” which refers to the practice of incorporating as a means for truck drivers to manage their affairs, raises questions about the economic and legal structures of the sector. The incorporation of drivers is often seen as a necessity by some. However, it also sparks debates and confusion among drivers about its real implications for their individual situations.

In conclusion, these requests highlight a common desire for simplified procedures, better professional recognition, improved working conditions, and enhanced communication to make the environment for all truck drivers more harmonious and respectful. The proposed changes aim to improve the daily lives of truck drivers as well as the safety and efficiency on the roads.

Strike at the Canada Border Services Agency delayed

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sophie
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Since 4 PM today, approximately 9,000 staff members of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) were expected to have started a legal strike, which could have led to significant disruptions at various border crossing points. However, the union representing the CBSA announced in a press release on Friday that the planned job action involving these 9,000 personnel has been delayed, with mediation now scheduled to continue until Wednesday.

Ian Lee, Associate Professor at the Sprott School of Business at Carleton University, warns that a strike could manifest as a work-to-rule action by customs agents, potentially resulting in substantial truck queues at the borders. The impact of such disruptions would be particularly critical for the freight transport sector, a cornerstone of the Canadian economy, given that 90% of goods entering Canada do so via land.

The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) recalls that a similar mobilization three years ago had nearly paralyzed commercial traffic, causing significant delays at land borders.

The demands made by the CBSA employees include seeking pay parity with other federal entities, such as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), increased flexibility for teleworking, enhancements in process automation, improved social benefits, and heightened workplace protection.

A strike raises major concerns regarding its impact on commercial operations and the regular flow of essential goods transport across Canada.

Chemical Exposure at the Manitoulin Trucking Facility in Peterborough

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sophie
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Chemical Exposure at the Manitoulin Trucking Facility in Peterborough | Yesterday, on June 6th, an incident involving a suspected chemical exposure occurred at the Manitoulin Trucking facility in Peterborough, Ontario. Emergency services, including fire crews equipped with a hazardous materials unit, responded promptly to the situation at the company’s location on Technology Drive in the city’s southwest. The event unfolded shortly after 9 a.m.

Peterborough County-City Paramedics were on hand to assess several employees affected by the incident. While up to six workers were treated at the scene, further details about their condition or whether any were transported to the hospital were not disclosed. As of now, additional information regarding the full extent of the exposure or the specific chemicals involved has not been made available.

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