Clearer distinction needed between taxis and PHV in future COVID-19 safeguarding measures says LTDA
- Perry Richardson
- Sep 2, 2020
- 1 min read
Taxi industry representatives have called for a clearer distinction between taxis and minicabs should any future COVID-19 safeguarding measures be introduced.
The Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA) recently spoke to governmental departments to discuss what more could be done to keep taxi drivers safe during the pandemic.
Representatives from the LTDA suggested that clearer guidance was required concerning safe taxi use. This follows widespread industry confusion over whether taxi and private hire vehicles were included in mandatory facecover usage when travelling.
The cab driver representatives also highlighted the need to have separate guidance for taxis and minicabs. Licensed taxis in large urban cities are normally purpose built with partitions already installed. Some vehicles also already have contactless payment facilities available and meet 2 metre distancing rules.
Steve McNamara, General Secretary of the LTDA, wrote via TAXI: “The LTDA took part in a call with representatives from Public Health England, Department for Transport and the Health and Safety Executive recently to discuss what more can be done to keep drivers, particularly those more vulnerable to COVID-19, as safe as possible.
“We highlighted the need for clearer guidance on safe taxi use, face coverings and the need to draw a clear distinction between taxis and PHVs.
“We were assured that they are aware of these issues and specifically looking at the latter.”
