PCV Disability Awareness 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What colour contrast requirements exist for handrails and grab poles on accessible PCVs?
- They must be painted the same colour as the vehicle interior
- They must contrast visually with the surrounding area to help partially sighted passengers identify them (Correct answer)
- They must be painted yellow by law
- There are no colour requirements for handrails
Correct answer: They must contrast visually with the surrounding area to help partially sighted passengers identify them
PSVAR requires that handrails, grab poles, and other key features contrast visually with their surroundings. This helps partially sighted passengers identify them. The specific colour is not mandated, but the contrast must be clear and obvious.
Question 2: What is a 'tactile surface' on a PCV and why is it important?
- A soft floor covering for passenger comfort
- A textured surface at the top and bottom of stairs or near exits to alert visually impaired passengers to a change in level (Correct answer)
- A non-slip coating on the driver's pedals
- A rubberised coating on exterior handles for better grip in rain
Correct answer: A textured surface at the top and bottom of stairs or near exits to alert visually impaired passengers to a change in level
Tactile surfaces are textured areas installed at changes of level, such as the top and bottom of staircases on double-decker buses and near exits. They alert visually impaired passengers through touch (felt underfoot) that they are approaching steps or an exit.
Question 3: A passenger with a learning disability is confused about which stop to get off at. What should you do?
- Tell them it is not your responsibility to know their stop
- Speak to them calmly, use simple clear language, and offer to let them know when their stop is approaching (Correct answer)
- Ask other passengers to look after them
- Radio your depot and ask for instructions
Correct answer: Speak to them calmly, use simple clear language, and offer to let them know when their stop is approaching
Drivers should be patient and understanding. Use simple, clear language without being condescending. Offer to alert them when their stop is approaching if possible. People with learning disabilities may need extra time to process information and may become anxious if rushed.
Question 4: What is the maximum gradient permitted for a wheelchair ramp on a PCV under PSVAR?
- 1 in 4 (25%)
- 1 in 8 (12.5%)
- 1 in 5 (20%) (Correct answer)
- 1 in 12 (8.3%)
Correct answer: 1 in 5 (20%)
PSVAR specifies that wheelchair ramps on PCVs should have a maximum gradient of approximately 1 in 5 (20%) when deployed. Steeper gradients make it difficult and unsafe for wheelchair users to board or alight, particularly for those propelling manually.
Question 5: How should a PCV driver assist a passenger who uses crutches or a walking stick?
- Grab their arm and guide them to a seat
- Allow them extra time to board and alight, park close to the kerb, lower the bus if possible, and offer verbal guidance without physical contact unless requested (Correct answer)
- Tell them to sit in the wheelchair space
- Ask them to board at the rear door where there is more space
Correct answer: Allow them extra time to board and alight, park close to the kerb, lower the bus if possible, and offer verbal guidance without physical contact unless requested
Allow extra time, park close to the kerb to minimise the step, use the kneeling facility if available, and offer verbal guidance. Do not grab or physically assist without asking first — some people prefer to manage independently. Always ask before providing physical assistance.
Question 6: What must a PCV driver do if the wheelchair ramp or lift is not working?
- Carry on with the service and let wheelchair users wait for the next bus
- Report the fault immediately and arrange for an alternative accessible vehicle if possible, apologising to any affected passengers (Correct answer)
- Manually lift the wheelchair onto the bus
- Tell the wheelchair user to call a taxi instead
Correct answer: Report the fault immediately and arrange for an alternative accessible vehicle if possible, apologising to any affected passengers
A faulty ramp or lift should be reported immediately as it prevents wheelchair users from accessing the service. The operator should arrange an alternative accessible vehicle. Simply leaving wheelchair users without service could constitute discrimination under the Equality Act 2010.
PCV Disability Awareness 2
What colour contrast requirements exist for handrails and grab poles on accessible PCVs?