Trip hazard at doorway

Passengers, particularly less mobile and disabled customers – may trip due to high step or recessed entry area.

HIGH

Yes. Some vehicles have higher step heights or setback entrances. Mirrors must reflect vehicle-specific requirements. Ensure party has adequate supervision. Driver to conduct a familiarisation briefing with group representative.

Vehicle mirrors are positioned to provide a clear view of the kerbside and nearside wheels. "Goldfish bowl" mirrors or supplementary lenses are fitted where required.

Reviewed during April 2025.

Luggage locker doors

Passengers and/or passers-by – may be struck by or cut on sharp-edged locker doors.

MEDIUM

Yes. On vehicles with under-belly lockers, doors should be clearly marked to warn of sharp edges.

Always supervise luggage loading/unloading. Warn customers to be cautious before opening lockers. Park vehicles to avoid obstructing pedestrian paths with open lockers.

Reviewed during April 2025.

Reversing movements

People, obstructions, and vehicles behind the coach – risk of collision or injury during reversing manoeuvres.

HIGH

Yes. In certain situations, a pilot (banksman) wearing high-visibility clothing should assist with reversing manoeuvres.

Sound horn before reversing. Ensure reversing lights and hazard lights are functional. Make full use of all mirrors.

Reviewed during April 2025.

Sudden braking

Passengers – risk of falling or injury if not seated or wearing seat belts.

HIGH

Yes. Ensure customer has adequate supervision for party. Driver to carry out a familiarisation briefing with the group representative.

Passengers must wear seat belts. Customers should be advised not to stand or move around the vehicle while it is in motion.

Reviewed during April 2025.

Hot water in drinks machines

Passengers – risk of scalding from hot water spills, especially during sudden braking or if items are left unsecured.

LOW

Yes. Ensure drinks equipment and items are safely stowed when not in use.

Drinks should be served in appropriate catering containers. Preparation should take place at the servery under supervision. Customers should be warned about hot liquid risks.

Reviewed during April 2025.

Fire

Passengers and other road users nearby – risk of burns, smoke inhalation, or panic during evacuation.

LOW

Yes. Additional training may be necessary in some cases. Emergency exits must always remain unobstructed.

Ensure customers are briefed on the location of emergency exits. Drivers must know the location and use of the fire extinguisher, fuel shut off, and evacuation procedures. Flammable materials must not be brought on board. First Aid kit location should be known to both driver and customer.

Reviewed during April 2025.

Vehicle controls

Passengers – risk of unintended vehicle movement or access to operational systems when the vehicle is left unattended.

LOW

Yes.

Vehicle ignition should be isolated when unattended. Parking brake must be applied, and the vehicle secured and locked when not in use.

Reviewed during April 2025.

Vehicle mechanical or electrical breakdown

Other road users, pedestrians, or customers – risk of collision, injury from exposed systems, fumes, or breakdown site hazards.

HIGH

Yes. All vehicles are maintained to DVSA standards.

Vehicle should be protected using hazard lights and warning triangle if required. If possible, move to a safe location. Keep customers away from any mechanical/electrical components, hot fluids, or fumes. Driver must wear high-visibility clothing when attending to breakdown.

Reviewed during April 2025.

Road traffic accident

Passengers, drivers, couriers, other road users and pedestrians – risk of injury or fatality during collisions.

HIGH

Yes. Emergency exits must remain unobstructed. Adequate party supervision is essential. Driver to brief customer representative on safety processes.

Ensure emergency exits and emergency hammers are pointed out to customers when boarding. Drivers must be familiar with emergency contact procedures and carry cellular phones. First Aid kit locations to be known to customers and staff.

Reviewed during April 2025.

Luggage loading/unloading

Driver – risk of injury during lifting, climbing into luggage lockers or handling luggage.

MEDIUM

Yes. Luggage pole and protective clothing to be available when climbing into lockers.

Manual handling techniques to be used. Luggage stowage must consider weight and positioning to avoid injury.

Reviewed during April 2025.