FOI request detail

DLR announcements

Request ID: FOI-1371-2021
Date published: 02 November 2020

You asked

F/on from FOI-2997-1920 Do you know the name of the onboard announcer? And is it Text-to-speech?

We answered

Our ref: FOI-1371-2021/GH

Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 15 October 2020 asking for further information about DLR announcements.

Your request has been considered under the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and our information access policy. I can confirm that we do hold the information you require.

Do you know the name of the onboard announcer? And is it Text-to-speech?

DLR does not know the name of the onboard announcer. As previously advised, the announcements are made by the Passenger Service Assistant on each service.

We can confirm that it is text-to-speech.

Hi, just replying to change the context of this request. I am now requesting to know why the "Mind the gap please" announcement has been introduced and where it's used/in what context it's used.

The mind the gap announcement is made at the small number of stations where the gap between the train and the platform is greater than 85mm.

The gap (and height) between the train and the platform edge is governed by the Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations (RVAR). These regulations mandate the gaps and heights at the platform edge and the train. The regulations cover a multitude of other requirements, however, this one is specifically related to the door and platform gaps.

At these platforms it is not possible for us to reduce the gap any further without the risk of the train striking the platform. Hence we have agreed with the Department for Transport to further mitigate the risk by announcing ‘mind the gap’ at certain stations.

If this is not the information you are looking for please do not hesitate to contact me.

If you are considering submitting a further FOI request please think carefully about whether the request is essential at this current time, as answering FOI requests will require the use of limited resources and the attention of staff who could be supporting other essential activity. Where requests are made, please note that our response time may be impacted by the current situation.

If you are not satisfied with this response please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely

Graham Hurt

FOI Case Officer

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London

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