DVSA has issued a warning to operators that, when the emergency doors on buses and coaches are not functioning correctly, there is a risk that passengers may not be able to open the door in an emergency or may inadvertently open the door while the vehicle is moving.

Together with the Confederation for Passenger Transport (CPT), DVSA is reminding operators to ensure their drivers are performing checks on emergency doors so that those responsible are sure the doors are working as they should be.

Other doors and exits, including service doors used by passengers in normal circumstances, should also be subject to driver checks to make sure they are working correctly, the DVSA said.

It notes that some vehicle operators choose to install additional systems which further prevent unintentional operation of the emergency door, such as motion sensed locking systems which activate at a predetermined speed.

Given that some items associated with emergency doors are classed as “major” deficiencies at annual test, the DVSA has advised operators and their drivers to take particular care. Further information is available in Section 16 of the public service vehicle inspection manual which covers emergency exits and service doors.

Further information:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/psv-inspection-manual