Request ID: FOI-1448-2223 Date published: 13 October 2022
You asked
Follow-on from FOI-1287-2223:
• Can you provide me with the above guidance (that TfL provides to PHV Operators)?
• Can you provide me with TfL's policy for PHV Operators who do not comply with Health & Safety at Work Act 1974?
And lastly, to be certain; are you saying that TfL licences PHV Operators without checking whether they comply with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974?
We answered
Our Ref: FOI-1448-2223
Thank you for your request received on 16 September 2022 asking for further information about private hire vehicle (PHV) operator health and safety policies.
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy. I can confirm we do hold some of the information you require. You asked:
Can you provide me with the above guidance (that TfL provides to PHV Operators)? Can you provide me with TfL's policy for PHV Operators who do not comply with Health & Safety at Work Act 1974? And lastly, to be certain; are you saying that TfL licences PHV Operators without checking whether they comply with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974?
Our "Private hire operator guidance notes" can be found on our website, the link below was provided in our previous response to you (reference FOI-1287-2223).
We do not hold a policy explicitly relating to PHV operators who do not comply with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, although when assessing applications, we consider any previous misconduct and disregard of rules, laws and court orders by the operator or individuals who make up the operator.
As previously stated, as part of the licensing application process, we carry out physical inspections of the proposed operating centre, particularly where the proposed centre is subject to public access. This inspection includes health and safety aspects to ensure the premises provides a satisfactory customer and working environment.
While we take all steps within our remit to ensure licensed private hire operators provide a safe and reliable service, the Health and Safety Executive is primarily responsible for enforcing health and safety at workplaces.
If this is not the information you are looking for, or if you are unable to access it for some reason, please do not hesitate to contact me.
The attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.
Yours sincerely
Gemma Jacob Senior FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
