PCV Accessibility for Disabled Passengers 5

Question 1

What does PSVAR stand for and which vehicles does it apply to?

Accepted Answer

Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations — applies to buses and coaches used to carry members of the public

Answer

PSVAR stands for Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations 2000. It applies to buses and coaches (class M2 and M3 vehicles) used to carry members of the public on scheduled services. It sets minimum accessibility standards for vehicle design.

Question 2

What is the minimum width of a wheelchair space required on a single-decker bus under PSVAR?

Accepted Answer

At least 750 mm wide and 1200 mm long — sufficient for a standard wheelchair

Answer

PSVAR specifies minimum dimensions for wheelchair spaces: at least 750 mm wide and 1200 mm long. These dimensions ensure the space accommodates a standard NHS wheelchair, which is the reference wheelchair for UK accessibility standards.

Question 3

Why must steps on buses have colour-contrasting nosings?

Accepted Answer

To make step edges visible to passengers with visual impairments, reducing the risk of trips and falls

Answer

Colour-contrasting nosings (the front edge of each step in a contrasting colour) help passengers with visual impairments to see where each step starts and ends. This significantly reduces trip and fall hazards, especially for those with partial sight.

Question 4

What does the Equality Act 2010 say about operators charging disabled passengers more than non-disabled passengers for the same service?

Accepted Answer

Charging disabled passengers more for the same service is direct disability discrimination and is unlawful

Answer

Charging disabled passengers more than non-disabled passengers for the same service is direct discrimination and unlawful under the Equality Act 2010. All passengers must be charged the same fare for the same journey regardless of disability.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a 'priority seating' designation near the front of a bus?

Accepted Answer

To reserve seats for passengers who need them most — including disabled, elderly, and pregnant passengers — other passengers must move if requested

Answer

Priority seats are designated for those who need them most: disabled passengers, elderly passengers, pregnant women, and others with less obvious needs. Other passengers should vacate priority seats when a qualifying passenger needs them, though enforcement is by social expectation rather than law.

DVSA UK Driving Theory Practice Test

DVSA UK Driving Theory Practice Test

PCV Accessibility for Disabled Passengers 5