Please could you clarify or send me some publications on rules on drivers allowing passengers to board the bus at stands as some service controllers think that drivers stand time (Recovery time) is not their own time and I would like some clarification in writing in regards to this. I would also like you to forward me a publication of some kind on Drivers allowed break at each end of the route if they are late for example for toileting etc. The above are serious issues and are regularly disputed between drivers and controllers.

---

TfL Ref: FOI-2463-1819

Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 16 December 2018.

Your request has been processed in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy. You asked:

Please could you clarify or send me some publications on rules on drivers allowing passengers to board the bus at stands as some service controllers think that drivers stand time (Recovery time) is not their own time and I would like some clarification in writing in regards to this. I would also like you to forward me a publication of some kind on drivers allowed break at each end of the route if they are late for example for toileting etc.

We do not have specific guidance for some of the scenarios aforementioned as shifts and break patterns are determined by legislation, not TfL, and there are many acceptable variations that strike a balance between different hours and breaks periods. Our expectation is that the requirements are complied with, within the wider control of routes. These kind of matters would need to be discussed with the operator(s) directly. Bus stands are often points beyond or to the side of routes when the bus is technically out of service and where passengers would not board. However, if these are stops that also act as stands, and drivers feel insufficient time is being allowed by breaks, they should raise at joint operator-staff forums. In terms of letting customers on if the stand is the first stop, the driver needs a few minutes to prepare for the next trip and check the bus, and it is not unreasonable to hold the customers outside for a few minutes. With regards to facilities, we are trying to ensure there is access to toilet within easy reach of the end of routes, particularly longer routes, and ideally at both ends of these, and we continue to address the most needed facilities with a combination of stop-gap and permanent facilities.

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely

Melissa Nichols

FOI Case Officer

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London

Back to top

---