PCV Disability Awareness

Question 1

Under the Equality Act 2010, what duty does a PCV driver have towards disabled passengers?

Accepted Answer

To make reasonable adjustments to ensure they can use the service

Answer

The Equality Act 2010 requires service providers, including PCV operators and drivers, to make reasonable adjustments so that disabled people are not placed at a substantial disadvantage. This includes deploying ramps, allowing extra boarding time, and providing assistance where possible.

Question 2

A visually impaired passenger asks you which bus has arrived at the stop. What should you do?

Accepted Answer

Clearly announce your route number and destination verbally

Answer

You should clearly and verbally announce the route number and destination. Visually impaired passengers cannot read destination boards, so verbal communication is essential. Many operators now require drivers to announce stops, but proactive communication is always good practice.

Question 3

What does PSVAR stand for in relation to PCV accessibility?

Accepted Answer

Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations

Answer

PSVAR stands for Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations 2000. These regulations set minimum accessibility standards for PCVs, including requirements for wheelchair spaces, ramps or lifts, priority seating, colour contrast, and route/destination displays.

Question 4

A passenger with a guide dog wishes to board your bus. Another passenger says they are allergic to dogs. What should you do?

Accepted Answer

Allow the guide dog on board — assistance dogs have a legal right of access and cannot be refused

Answer

Under the Equality Act 2010, assistance dogs (guide dogs, hearing dogs, and other registered assistance dogs) have a legal right of access to public transport. Refusing to carry an assistance dog is discrimination. The allergic passenger should be offered an alternative seating position.

Question 5

When communicating with a deaf or hearing-impaired passenger, what is the best approach?

Accepted Answer

Face them directly, speak clearly at a normal pace, and use gestures or written communication if needed

Answer

When communicating with deaf or hearing-impaired passengers, face them directly (many lip-read), speak clearly at a normal pace (shouting distorts lip patterns), use natural gestures, and be prepared to write things down if needed. Patience and willingness to communicate are key.

DVSA UK Driving Theory Practice Test

DVSA UK Driving Theory Practice Test

PCV Disability Awareness