CALGARY, Alta. — A three-day inspection blitz has taken 73 trucks of Alberta highways, embarrassing Alberta Motor Transport Association executive director Lane Kranenburg.

Of 333 trucks inspected during the blitz, only 157 trucks passed the inspection. In addition to the 73 deemed unsafe to drive, 103 required minor repairs.

"That’s embarrassing I’m embarrassed by that," Kranenburg told local media. He cites the current driver shortage as the primary reason for the problems.

"Because of the pressure, some of the companies are relaxing and their relaxing is costing them in suspended drivers," says Kranenburg.

Sgt. Mayne Root of the Calgary Police Service truck unit, says many trucking companies ensure their rigs are safe, but some bad apples are tainting the industry’s image.

"I feel we have some outstanding companies that work hard to meet the standards and we have one or two that are hard to deal with," Root told local media. "The companies are so hard up for decent drivers so they don’t follow through with the things they need to.

Kranenburg supports the recent suggestion by Alberta Transportation that new drivers participate in a voluntary apprenticeship program. He says making trucking a certified trade is the best solution for solving the driver shortage and improving the quality of drivers on the road.