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

Public Safety Vehicle Assessment Requirements — applies to all emergency vehicles

Answer

Passenger Safety and Vehicle Accessibility Regulations — applies to trains and buses

Answer

Private Service Vehicle Authority Regulations — applies to private hire only

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

At least 500 mm wide

Answer

At least 1000 mm wide and 1500 mm long

Answer

There is no minimum width — it is determined by the vehicle manufacturer

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

To comply with anti-slip regulations only

Answer

For aesthetic design purposes

Answer

To identify the step number in the sequence

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

Higher charges are permitted if the vehicle requires special maintenance for accessibility

Answer

Operators may charge for the use of accessibility equipment

Answer

Charging more is only unlawful if the disabled passenger complains

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

To reserve seats for first-class ticket holders

Answer

To designate seats for children on school services

Answer

To reserve seats for emergency service workers

Question 6

How should a PCV driver respond if a passenger complains that another passenger's assistance dog is distressing them?

Accepted Answer

Explain that assistance dogs are protected by law and cannot be excluded — offer alternative seating where possible to maximise distance from the dog

Answer

Remove the assistance dog from the bus

Answer

Ask the assistance dog owner to leave the bus

Answer

Refuse both passengers to be fair to both