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Initial Suitability Inspection Manual June 2010

1. 350mm Measurement or use of template provided Lack of a front passenger seat is not a fail item some vehicles use this area for luggage The front seat may be adjusted to the most rearward position for this assessment Front passenger seat too low Insufficient exit radius Insufficient front passenger floor foot space Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 27 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure For all other seats Measurement or use of template Insufficient seat width A minimum seat squab width of 400mm is required for each provided Seat height outside of limits passenger The top of each uncompressed squab shall be at least 275mm and not more than 460mm from the vehicle ou td t floor at the front of the squab 9 Oo DT E There shall be at least 650mm measured longitudinally and EE horizontally from the front face of the backrest at Measurement or use of template Insufficient leg room ET uncompressed squab height to the rear face of the seat or provided oc surface immediately in front of it x Where seats face each other i e opposite there shall be at least 1300mm between the front faces of the opposing backrests Measurement or use of template provided Insufficient leg room Rear Shoulder Room The shoulder room of the rear seats shall b
2. A A E E A T T 47 SAFETY EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL SPSS A A AA AA a 48 ACCEPTABLE FIRST AID KITS THE DIN 13164 OR THE HSA TRAVEL RUT asa sov suqi Eye ar aia 49 APPEND X Lon AAA iiss AAN A A 51 APPEAR A A aE a 53 Items identified with indicate inspection areas that may be confirmed in a Model Report Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 6 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 INTRODUCTION amp HELPFUL DEFINITIONS This Manual is a reference for the inspection of vehicles submitted for examination to assess initial compliance with the SPSV suitability criteria for the categories of taxi wheelchair accessible taxi hackney wheelchair accessible hackney and limousine It is produced for the inspectors who carry out such assessments and for other interested parties who may wish to understand in more detail the technical requirements and assessment procedures It assumes a certain level of vehicle Knowledge and familiarity with common vehicle engineering terminology This Manual does NOT cover the periodic technical inspection for roadworthiness the NCT test see the N C T S website for details in this regard Nor does it cover the annual SPSV vehicle Licence Renewal Assessment LRA which is an assessment of basic vehicle cleanliness and completeness see the Commission for Taxi Regulation SPSV Licence Renewal Assessment Manual for further information This Manual sets out the a
3. Burns Dressing Large Crepe Bandage 7cm Note 2 Where mains tap water is not readily available for eye irrigation sterile water or sterile normal saline 0 9 in sealed disposable containers should be provided Each container should hold at least 20ml and should be discarded once the seal is broken Eye bath eye cups refillable containers should not be used for eye irrigation due to the risk of cross infection The container should be CE marked gt k KOK Note 3 Where mains tap water is not readily available for cooling burnt area Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 50 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 APPENDIX 1 Table 1 Minimum required true ramp lengths for various floor heights true length being measured along the ramp surface itself Effective floor Required ramp height to road MINIMUM true mm length 1 in 3 6 mm 250 900 300 1080 350 1260 400 1440 450 1620 475 1710 500 1800 550 1980 600 2160 650 2340 700 2520 Table 2 Tyre Load Rating Index Read axle mass kg from chassis plate divide by two and look up tyre rating below Load Index kg 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 375 Load Index kg 76 400 80 450 84 500 Load Index 86 89 90 94 Load Load kg Index kg Index kg sis 95 69o 105 925 530 96 rz10 106 950 560 98 75
4. DVD or similar display should be turned on to check for advertising in wheelchair accessible hackneys For avoidance of doubt and in consideration of practicalities the following shall be allowed on all vehicles The owner s driver s or company details or supplying vehicle agent s details may be displayed beneath the number plate or in the lower half of the rear window the maximum size of such a statement to be no more than 500mm x 20mm in size or equivalent area 10 000 square mm Internal including on DVD style screens or external advertising present in wheelchair accessible hackneys excepting that expressly permitted Roof Sign For taxi roof sign taximeter fare chart and advertising requirements please see page 43 Taxi Additional Specific Requirements Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 38 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 STANDARD TAXI AND HACKNEY ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Basic Vehicle Definition Taxis and hackneys shall be mid range cars saloon hatchback estate or multi purpose vehicles MPVs capable of transporting not less than four and not more than eight adult passengers in reasonable comfort as well as their luggage in a safe and secure manner All doors shall be capable of being opened from both the i
5. Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Wheelchair and Occupant Restraint Systems The wheelchair and the person in the wheelchair shall have separate restraint systems The vehicle shall be fitted with a wheelchair restraint system that is suitable for general wheelchair applications The wheelchair shall not be secured sideways facing The restraints and anchorages to the vehicle shall either meet documented standards i e Type Approval International or National standards with supporting proof or be installed in accordance with S I 47 of 1998 see Appendix 2 page 53 A separate lap belt or three point belt is required for the passenger in the wheelchair An Engineer s Report less than 90 days old is required confirming their fitness for purpose and compliance Visual inspection for restraint system for wheelchair and separate restraints safety belt for occupant in wheelchair Webbing style restraints and their connections should be assessed in a similar manner to seat belts and their buckles Note it is the purpose of the Engineer s Report to ascertain the restraints and anchorages are structurally adequate but dimensional checks may be made Lack of wheelchair or wheelchair occupant restraints Restraints for either wheelchair or wheelchair occupant in obviously poor condition Anchorages in unusable condi
6. and shall be If the step is part of an innovative Insecure step assembly 2 securely affixed to the vehicle All steps shall have a slip ramp system the vehicle aT resistant surface manufacturer convertor may seek sp dispensation and will if oS authorised be in possession of written confirmation of this from the Commission The tread length foot depth shall be at least 200mm The Measurement permitted Insufficient step size 2 width of the step shall be a minimum of 400mm tolerance of 10mm o OE The maximum slope of the step in any direction shall not Initial visual assessment if in Excessively angled step 2 exceed 3 when the unladen vehicle is standing on a doubt confirm with angle 2 o smooth and horizontal surface in its normal condition of finder spirit level Of vehicles nun travel in particular any kneeling device shall not be assessed thus far none have been engageo near this limit Steps shall have clearly marked rounded nosings in a Visual assessment Lack of contrasting edges 2 o brightly contrasting colour of minimum width 40mm and be presence of sharp edges to upper 2 non slip surface Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 29 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure Notes Reasons for Failure May be automatically retractable i e upon door closing or Visual assessment check of Manual operate
7. and to position them facing fore aft and to secure the wheelchair and occupant safely Obvious lack of room to board a person seated in their wheelchair inability to seat 3 adult passengers in addition to the person in the wheelchair Side facing seats fitted Engineer s Report missing more than 90 days old Engineer s Report of incorrect format or Engineer s Report relating to a different vehicle Luggage Requirement Engineer s Report Reasonable provision for luggage is required Items carried within the passenger compartment shall be secured A separate luggage compartment is not specifically required Ramps in particular must be secured Visual assessment No obvious junk taking up significant luggage space Insecure items e g loose spare wheel jack fire extinguisher ramps Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 21 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure The vehicle shall be fitted with at least two accessible doors Check accessible doors open Lack of two accessible doors capable of being opened from inside and outside These from inside and out Accessible doors not operable doors to each provide at least 735mm wide by 1250mm from inside and outside effective opening Both doors to be obviously intended for Dimension check the two Accessible doors with
8. ata height of 700mm from the vehicle floor mid position fore and aft If there are any heater outlets ducts vents within a 500mm radius of this point then a point mid way between such outlets may be used maintaining the 700mm height i e not necessarily on the centre line nor mid distance fore aft No obvious heating capability for passenger areas Totally inadequate heating system for year round reasonable passenger comfort If thermometer used in normal workshop conditions around 18 C the reading should be at least 25 C Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 17 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure At least one portable fire extinguisher to EN3 shall be carried safely and secured ideally in the luggage compartment It shall be suitable for the inflammability classes A B and C with a minimum capacity of 2kg dry powder or an equivalent capacity for any other suitable Visual inspection of extinguisher mounting and condition If in obviously poor condition a service record may be requested Extinguisher less than 2kg capacity two off 1 kg units NOT acceptable Extinguishant not stated for category A B C fires or not collision k extinguishing agent evidenced to meet EN3 standard a A single extinguisher larger than Extinguisher obviously non
9. for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 1 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 REVISIONS This Manual may be revised and updated from time to time Changes will be communicated directly to the trade and industry wherever possible and information about such changes can also be obtained by contacting the Commission for Taxi Regulation via their website at www taxiregulator ie EXEMPTIONS It is the responsibility of the person presenting the vehicle for test to prove exemption from any requirement listed in this Manual or to provide the appropriate documentary evidence Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 2 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Ser ru DEPINITEONS 522444 Ad 7 Pu A A AA NIORT URN T 16 Basic Vehicle Deflmition 1 oreet idet e wid e P deep d o DU Vat t a o E a E P EE c e e a cot A Vat abe t E d e E eC E nda 16 CIGANIMESS wach a A A A A LRD A E A A A A A A A 16 COMMUNICATION Simi da A Gua AA A A AA o add a ada ed 17 Seat Fabric sate A A A TA A A AD AE 17 Passenger Compartment TeMmperature 0 0 0 ccc cr 17 FIFE EXTINQUISN E aii ETT 18 ism id M 18 Warning TT aire Fale PURPOSE E REE E E a E 18 NA AAA m 18 Spare Wheel VR I PLETTEUELIL ILIO IT TIL LET 19 Interior CIANO eer r EEEEE 19 TOR
10. is the responsibility of the vehicle presenter to satisfy the Inspection Centre themselves that this is not interfering with any restraint system e g airbag Advertising is allowed in or on taxis and wheelchair Visual inspection including any A taxi sign obscured in such a 2 accessible taxis roof advertising boards manner that the word TAXI or a TACSA or the licence number is t rendered illegible or partly illegible E The roof sign must remain visible to intending passengers Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 44 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 HACKNEY ADDITIONAL SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Advertising is not allowed in or on hackneys Visual internal and external Internal or external advertising o For avoidance of doubt and in consideration of practicalities assessment present excepting that expressly the following shall be allowed on all vehicles permitted P The owner s driver s or company details or supplying vehicle DVD screens internally displaying oO agent s details may be displayed beneath the number plate advertising messages are not 3 or in the lower half of the rear window the maximum size of permitted lt such a statement to be no more than 500mm x 20mm in size or equivalent area 10 000 square mm The fitment of taxi meters in hackneys sh
11. may be satisfactory evidence that the vehicle complies with the relevant requirements of an EC Directive or an equivalent National standard An Engineer s Report or Assessor s Report is often specified as a requirement to assist in this regard In this situation the primary objective of the Inspector is to confirm that any evidence so presented is in fact representative of the individual vehicle being inspected Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 7 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Layout This Manual is divided into several Sections To reduce waste the common requirements to all vehicles are listed separately first with additional vehicle category specific items listed separately in their own Section So for example to identify ALL the items for Limousines you need to look through the Section headed ALL SPSV and the Section LIMOUSINE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Section column indicates the general vehicle area of interest Requirements details the particular items being assessed and their criteria based on the legislative requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes outlines the inspection method and any guiding advice or equipment needed Reason for Failure lists defects which will result in the vehicle failing Definitions amp Terminology There are 5 SPSV categories namely taxi wheelchair accessible taxi hackney wheelchair accessible hackney and limousine A veh
12. v3 0 Page 36 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure o Flooring shall be non slip with knowledge of wet and dry Visual inspection Flooring of poor quality presence operating conditions and any transitions between the floor of trip hazards 9 and doorways or seats shall be delineated with brightly contrasting colours Obvious lack of contrast at entrances or steps o For vehicles fitted with a full dividing screen partition or Working condition check for Lack of or poorly functioning Y e bulkhead between the driver and passenger compartment vehicles with dividing screen intercom or induction loop system g an intercom and an induction loop is required in vehicles with dividing screen 96 Induction loop to be tested with 5 Es Signage shall be placed in the passenger compartment to hearing aid or induction loop t2 advise passengers of this tester Lack of signage indicating E induction loop facility if zm installed Wheelchair accessible taxis and wheelchair accessible Visual inspection followed by test Reading of less than 65 0 for T hackneys shall be fitted with clear window glass The front with visible light transmission any windows Includes total 2 windscreen shall exhibit 75 minimum visible light meter Separate instructions of allowance for accuracy and 2 transmission Remaining windows shall exhibit 70 us
13. vehicle and is designed to limit the mobility of the wheelchair in the event of a collision or abrupt vehicle deceleration Use of Model Reports The purpose of the Model Report is to reduce inspection time It only works on vehicles that are built consistently to the same specification i e vehicles with full ECWVTA or Low Volume approvals A Model Report is basically a shorthand or streamlined way of assessing the fundamental vehicle features that do not alter on one vehicle and then reading over those results to all identical models An example would be luggage space or seating dimensions Inspection areas assessed by reference to a Model Report are indicated with an asterisk The Model Report concept does not usually apply to wheelchair accessible vehicles as many are built to bespoke customer order However it will be possible to create these for wheelchair accessible vehicles manufactured under a Conformity of Production system The Model Reports have in most cases been previously compiled by the Commission and are listed in the Model Report database available at www taxiregulator ie Where the use of templates is mentioned the Commission will provide these templates and a guide to their use Modified Vehicles Engineer s Reports and Assessor s Reports The primary purpose of the Initial Suitability Inspection is to determine if a vehicle meets the licensing requirements for a taxi hackney etc The roadworthiness test NCT is primaril
14. 8 The volume of 420 litres to be provided by the manufacturer or checked by the Assessor s Report Alternatively the defined area s to be assessed the dummy wheelchair volume box is 195 litres fit at least an additional 225 VDA one litre blocks in addition Check for guard or securing cover Some common sense is required a cargo net is generally acceptable if anchored along edges and corners The luggage area MUST accept the folded dummy wheelchair volume box For wheelchair taxis the luggage capability must be checked with seats in their compliant locations with the legroom rules see page 28 For wheelchair hackneys there is no need for this simultaneous luggage space 420 secure litres including the wheelchair box is not provided No security of luggage area No ability to store wheelchair box In case of wheelchair taxis seats not compliant with legroom etc in order to meet luggage requirements or vice versa Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 25 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 un 0 A ct o 3 Requirements I nspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Accessible Door Dimensions The vehicle shall be fitted with At least one wheelchair accessible door capable of being opened from both inside and outside of minimum usable dimensions 745mm wide x 1250mm high A template may be used to check this pri
15. B The extinguisher shall be in serviceable condition as 2kg is acceptable More than one serviceable e g corroded out of 5 recommended by the manufacturer specifically any gauge extinguisher each being 2kg or date gauge in red etc o or date information shall be respected more is acceptable Extinguisher not secured not o installed in accordance with The fire extinguisher shall be safely and securely installed in EN3 compliance may be proven manufacturer instruction a such a way that it can present no danger to the occupants by traceable laboratory certificate Extinguisher in passenger in the event of a collision this means in the boot area or by prior arrangement if not compartment or in case of out of easy reach of passengers marked on the unit MPV estates wheelchair accessible vehicle within easy reach of passengers A First Aid kit complying with DIN 13164 or Health and Visual inspection of First Aid kit First Aid kit missing or E Safety Authority travel kit recommendations shall be carried and contents see here page 49 incomplete x within the vehicle for specifications E The contents of the kit that are date marked shall be within A sealed kit to the correct Kit and or contents out of date D date The container shall be marked so as to be immediately standard and unopened needs no E recognisable as a First Aid kit further inspection if within any Kit obviously fake e missing Ue date limits correct certificat
16. CH aes A ere eget ea elena ee ee py Meta A a cate re A a eee a eee ee ee ne ae ee E alee ew i 19 Seating POSICIONS lira id diia dla ld pv aa ll a e D eR c tiles vid daca 20 WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE TAXIS under 47 000 ia A eds 21 Basic Vehicle Definition Engineer s Report 0 0 e esee hne hesessee ie ee esses ie sie ee esse se sre ee essen sense eene nne 21 LUGGAGE REQUIEM RR 21 Accessible DODES qM cL 22 Wheelchair Space Dimensions 00 eese sne nemen hes esses re es e sess e se es estes eie is hi hes sis sis ese sese se see nene en senis 22 Boarding Ald eX 22 Wheelchair and Occupant Restraint Systems 2 EEE sis es essen sees ee een sese nn ne 23 aC O A EEEE O E EA E a E E E E EENE E EE EA E EA AEE TERENA 23 WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE TAXIS above 47 000 AND WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE HACKNEYS ne 24 Basic Vehicle Definition amp Assessor s Report 2 0 0 nn ren nr n nnn nens 24 General Requirements a ca 24 O Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 3 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Luggage Requirement ise eed II RU IR Ove R4 t e XE eda eee eee T ey ra Veen oh ts 25 Accessible Door Dimensions ipt x xy ERU ee ban e Eph a th Sage ek vse I Re T AI rpuv Rune E Te I MRR SEN IR ARRA IRRPRM E a ee EY Ya p e PUPA avian ede 26 Wheelchair Space Dime
17. Figure 1 page 52 when folded up non seating position Insufficient headroom min a 1300mmi in vicinity of wheelchair A minimum distance page 52 between any tip down seat occupant during turning and when folded up and any rear seat of 1000mm is required securing There shall be a ramp or other mechanism to permit the Visual inspection of presence of Lack of ramps lift or boarding person using the wheelchair to enter and exit the vehicle ramp or lift aids for wheelchair users 5 safely at all times The ramp slope to provide at least 3 6 Check ramp is securely located if Insecure ramp or lift stowage lt units of length for each unit in height in its boarding within passenger area when not in use Oo position A reference table assuming inboard ramp end is at Check ramp angle Ramp not suitable for purpose vehicle floor height is provided in Appendix 1 page 51 View service certificate for power e g too weak or too steep 5 The boarding aid shall accommodate a safe working load of lifts to be less than 6 months old Power lift with no or out of date E at least 300kg at any point in it use in boarding a Note a ramp may be of more service certificate wheelchair with seated occupant Note it is intended in future to require portable ramps to be marked with the relevant vehicle registration number than a one piece construction Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 22 of 54
18. Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Taxi Regulator An Rial la Tacsaithe SPSV Initial Suitability Inspection Manual for vehicles seeking first licensing as an SPSV or a change of vehicle licence transaction or change in SPSV licence category Explanatory notes on the procedures and standards applicable to vehicles requiring an Initial Suitability Inspection This Manual is not a legal document and must not be construed as such Hard copy documents are uncontrolled please contact the Commission s Technical Department for clarifications or update status if required SAFETY The methods described in this Manual are intended to be carried out by trained and competent persons working with appropriate facilities and with safe equipment The inspection procedures detailed in this Manual are designed to comply with normal inspection practice The Commission for Taxi Regulation does not accept responsibility for any injury to any person or any damage to any property arising from the conduct of any inspection described in this Manual Nothing in this Manual may be construed as diminishing in any way the obligations on employers and employees in relation to occupational health and safety at work Vehicles used on the road must comply with all relevant road vehicle regulations in force at the time the contents of this Manual must not be regarded as a substitute for those statutory provisions and regulations enacted Commission
19. VDA The method of luggage volume measurement used in the motor industry It is a German standard defined by the Verbund die Automobil Industrie The VDA figure is determined by filling the luggage space with blocks of volume of one litre each measuring 200 x 100 x 50mm The blocks are then counted e g 420 blocks equals 420 litres VIN Vehicle Identification Number a fixed combination of characters assigned to each vehicle by the manufacturer marked on the manufacturer s plate and also on the chassis frame or other similar structure Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 11 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Wheelbase Distance between the centre of the front wheel and the centre of the rear wheel on the same side of a vehicle Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle A vehicle capable of transporting at least one person seated in their wheelchair and at least three other passengers Wheelchair occupant restraints A system designed to keep the passenger within his her wheelchair to avoid him her being projected and prevent or minimise his her contact with the vehicle interior components or with other occupants during an abrupt movement or an impact A wheelchair occupant restraint is considered a safety belt Wheelchair restraints An arrangement of straps or clamps with securing attachments buckles and adjusting devices designed to attach to a wheelchair and which is capable of being anchored to a
20. a test laboratory or of compliance with an acceptable non European standard or by comparison of the vehicle against the specification of a previously assessed vehicle i e by use of a Model Report Doors Vertically hinged or sliding doors which lead directly into a compartment that contains one or more seating positions In certain categories a tailgate may be considered as a door ECWVTA European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval a streamlined process for approving new vehicles Once an initial type of vehicle is examined and the production arrangements are assessed as meeting Conformity of Production CoP requirements more vehicles of this type can be manufactured and sold without the need for further individual vehicle inspections and testing This is the only system accepted across all Member States and details the safety and environmental standards vehicles are built to Each individual vehicle will be issued with a Certificate of Conformity from the manufacturer stating the areas of Directive compliance Engineer s Report an assessment made by a mechanical or automotive engineer automotive assessor or a person with similar qualifications who by reason of his or her competence experience and independence is an appropriate person to assess the fitness and safety of a mechanically propelled vehicle This Report has a defined format and is a declaration statement Please also see Assessor s Report GVW Gross Vehicle We
21. able same as those originally E m Due to the variable nature of wheelchair and occupant size approved tested certified ye the positional requirements are to be considered for O 2 guidance only Compliance with the static test outlined in 2 g Appendix 6 of the National Vehicle Standards publication a lt X shall also be considered acceptable 42 rH T Test reports shall be made available to show that the 2 vehicle is capable of meeting the requirements regarding on i 9 the anchorage points for both the wheelchair restraint Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 34 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Anchorage Requirements The wheelchair restraint anchorages shall be approximately symmetrically located longitudinally relative to the wheelchair space provided Where there are common shared anchorages for the wheelchair and the occupant restraints then the test loads shall be met simultaneously i e the common anchorage shall be shown to support both the wheelchair restraint test load and the occupant restraint test load The Assessor s Report will include details as to test reports etc Visual inspection For all wheelchairs at least four restraints shall be required two front and two rear for the purpose of securing the wheelchair to the vehicle wheelchair restraint anch
22. able on request by engineers from the Licensing Centre Exemptions amp derogations for old licence holders i e taxi and hackney licences below 45 000 The Requirements listed have to cover a wide range of vehicles that have been licensed over a long period The Commission for Taxi Regulation introduced a number of additional licensing conditions on 1 January 2009 applicable to new taxi and hackney licences such licences are numbers above 45 000 In essence taxi and hackney vehicles on licences above 45 000 must be under 9 years of age at renewal and change of vehicle and meet certain minimum interior and luggage dimensions these vehicle dimensions being assessed initially via the Model Report Vehicles originally assessed for suitability under the old requirements are not expected to meet all of the new requirements and so where appropriate the following table includes exemptions clearly indicated The use of the word old means taxi and hackney licence numbers below 45 000 Finally the Commission introduced the new category of wheelchair accessible hackney licence on 8 June 2010 and new vehicle specifications for wheelchair accessible taxi and wheelchair accessible hackney licences issued after this date Licences issued after 8 June 2010 start at licence number 47 000 for ease of identification of the vehicle standards applicable A separate section in this Manual is dedicated to those new requirements Licensing Trans
23. accidentally become detached when being used Have a safe means of ramp stowage Where detachable be permanently marked with their associated vehicle registration number Check that ramps can be located to the appropriate accessible door opening Specific ramp test requirements for secondary safety impact resistance are detailed on Page 32 National Vehicle Standards Requirements publication Innovative underfloor ramps need not demonstrate compliance with registration number markings or impact resistance see page 33 Ramps with no effective in use location Ramps with no safe stowage i e no certified test documentation of withstanding 20g impact Detachable ramps with no permanent associated registration number Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 32 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure Notes Reasons for Failure A continuous non slip surface for the wheels of the Visual inspection and Two separate channels rather wheelchair i e two separate channels shall not be measurement than continuous surface permitted The width of the ramp shall be a minimum of Lack of non slip surface 700mm between the edge upturns vn Ramp less than 700mm wide 2 Have safety edge upturns at least 25mm high that are Y brightly coloured as per I S EN 1756 2 2004 or equivalent o national regulations Edge upturns need
24. actions and related SPSV Inspection Type New Licence Application Initial Suitability Inspection Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 14 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Licence Renewal Licence Renewal Assessment Change of Vehicle Initial Suitability Inspection Licence Transfer change of licence owner As package vehicle amp licence No Inspection As licence only Initial Suitability Inspection for newly associated vehicle after ownership change Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 15 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 ALL SPSV un 0 A ct o 3 Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Basic Vehicle Definition Mechanically propelled vehicle having at least four wheels which is designed and constructed for the carriage of passengers and which has a maximum of eight seats excluding the driver s seat Maximum design GVW of 3 500kg Passengers assumed to weigh 75kg at each seating position The wheels shall be arranged in axle pairs such that the minimum wheelbase is 2100mm the minimum track width is 1100mm and any side to side variation in wheelbase is less than 75mm Visual assessment confirm with measurement only if required View Vehicle Registration Certificate to check vehicle details match the vehicle presented For vehicles suspected of being overweight the vehicle prese
25. all be prohibited Visual inspection Presence of any form of taxi meter in hackneys for any reason Meters Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 45 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 LIMOUSINE ADDITIONAL SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Vehicles shall have an engine capacity of at least 1900cc If doubt exists over engine Engine capacity not shown to except in the case of vehicles constructed more than 30 capacity take the details from the exceed 1900cc in vehicles less g years before the licence application date Vehicle Registration Certificate or than 30 years old 2 the manufacturer brochure Limousines shall generally be a larger than average Vehicle not evidently prestigious prestigious passenger vehicle which shall be evidently suited Additional focus required now a black vehicle is not a limousine a by reason of style and condition for the provision of hire hackneys are required to be just because it is black o services for ceremonial occasions corporate occasions or under 9 years of age 9 other prestige purposes 9 o Passengers shall expect to travel in high quality luxury Subjective trained assessment dignified and comfortable surroundings as to suitability for prestige A convertible is acceptable purposes For modified vehicles an Engineer s Report less than 90 days Check doc
26. approval documentation and inspection and confirmation that the vehicle inspected matches that documentation so provided It is not simply a declaration of opinion that the vehicle complies as is the Engineer s Report Backrest The upright padded part of the seat that supports the occupant s back Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 8 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Category M1 Motor vehicle designed and constructed for the carriage of passengers and compromising no more than eight seats in addition to the drivers Category N1 Motor vehicle designed and constructed for the carriage of goods and having a maximum mass not exceeding 3500 kilograms CoC Certificate of Conformity an official statement by the manufacturer that the vehicle conforms to the relevant EC Type Approval held by the manufacturer Commission The Commission for Taxi Regulation an independent public body established under the Taxi Regulation Act 2003 is responsible for the regulation of taxis wheelchair accessible taxis hackneys wheelchair accessible hackneys and limousines It should also be noted that the terms Commission for Taxi Regulation Taxi Regulator and Commissioner are one and the same and tend to be used interchangeably Documentary Evidence evidence or proof of compliance may be in the form of vehicle specific documentary evidence from the vehicle manufacturer or
27. bo e gia e oe vt e a reda 39 Luggage Requirements e MR x 40 Front Passenger Seat Requirements iciisescoecasteesd ceca de ek A ides sane ELA Rar ova dais conde HR CAR KR Ol dace es CUP a d V a RT TRA Eas R Reed 41 Remaining Seat Requirements 22 ie ded a HU RR da a e Peck E EO dees ed med ead d du d esha can POR E a ra rA dace oe HOP AERE TRE EE 41 Rear Shoulder ROOM 5 iotenestussdansued ocontdhus duse dan UE Debe id acad sw Fri vam n hu d ceto etu t Ri att eU o D NR 42 Miclesr zrl lc M 42 TAXI INCLUDING WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE TAXI ADDITIONAL SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS een 43 aculeo 43 ROOE SIOM LIGHT ic 43 Taximeter ccn 44 FROME UAC SUK ERE EIE E CDD ELDER 44 PON GTI S IAG Sete segs PL id AAA E cop 44 HACKNEY ADDITIONAL SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS 45 A 45 A r eevee 45 LIMOUSINE ADDITIONAL SPECIFIC REQUIREMENT S narran A AA AA 46 O Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 5 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 General Def ON DUUM 46 Engineer s REPOMrts Re toes olan EMT 46 DOOS ia a a dla C 46 Stretched Tyre Specification and Gi Won e hehehe ns e resi i ee ee e he isse s s ee esse si s e ee e se senes nnn nnn 47 POW AE po ne A E E E E A E E E E 47 MA A A
28. cence ownership vehicle under 3 years required at subsequent change of vehicle the replacement to be no older than that it replaces Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 42 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 TAXI INCLUDING WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE TAXI ADDITIONAL SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure The roof sign shall be securely attached The illuminated surface to be 110 120mm in height 1030 1120mm long Front and rear faces to contain 3 equal sections with TAXI or TACSA in the centre in yellow letters on a blue background These to be no more than 90mm in height and with 16mm stroke width The nearside section front and rear to be of yellow background and display in black the More than one sign e g at leading and trailing edge of roof is permitted Check the sign number matches the licence number A taxi sign defaced obscured or altered in such a manner that the word TAXI or TACSAI or the licence number is rendered illegible or partly illegible Lack of the wheelchair symbol on 400 candela per sq metre of illuminated area o vehicle licence number in digits approx 89mm tall by 63mm Check the dimensions if the sign a wheelchair accessible taxi v wide 16mm stroke width identified by Licence Number or appears obviously non compliant S in the Ir
29. country of origin However the Certificate of Conformity issued by the manufacturer may result in a Mutual Recognition Certificate being issued on foot of which registration may be granted NCT National Car Test the roadworthiness test conducted independently through the Road Safety Authority Power lift Power assisted elevating and lowering device permanently fitted to a vehicle to surmount the difference in height between the floor of the vehicle compartment and the ground Ramp Inclined plane to bridge the difference in height between the floor of the vehicle compartment and the ground Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 10 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Rear doors In this regard are a door or door system at the rear end of a motor vehicle Rearward facing Facing in the direction opposite to the normal direction of travel of the vehicle Safety belt or seat belt or belt An arrangement of straps with a securing buckle adjusting devices and attachments which is capable of being anchored to a vehicle and is designed to diminish the risk of injury to its wearer in the event of collision or abrupt vehicle deceleration by limiting the mobility of the wearer s body Such an arrangement is generally referred to as a belt assembly a term also embracing any device for energy absorption or belt retraction A wheelchair occupant restraint is considered a safety belt In this document the
30. d steps without 3 manually retractable It shall not be possible for any operation any warning sign or device e automatic retractable step to be deployed whilst the vehicle g S is in motion An interlock related to the handbrake warning o5 system would be considered sufficient for compliance For 9 ce manually operated steps a warning notice in the vicinity of the driver may suffice No step shall project more than 10mm beyond the widest Visual inspection Excessive protrusion A part of the vehicle exterior mirrors are not considered for Vehicles with full ECWVTA CoC S the purpose of this requirement whilst the vehicle is in are assumed to comply with full Presence of obviously sharp or motion The corners of steps or supporting structures exterior projections dangerous or hard edges or D facing forwards or rearwards shall be rounded to a radius of This includes external steps corners not less than 5mm the edges shall be rounded to a radius a of not less than 2 5mm Protruding parts made of a material S of hardness not exceeding 60 shore A may have a radius of a curvature less than 2 5mm The Assessor s Report will include details as to test reports etc Step Strength amp Stiffness All steps shall be designed and constructed so as to withstand without permanent deformation a centrally placed load as below without the deflection at any point on the step exceeding 10mm For steps designed to take one person at a tim
31. d to meet the relevant standards Method of deletion of a seating space to prevent occupation is obviously temporary in nature or of potential danger to passengers e g armrest secured by Velcro exposed sharp edges lack of padding Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 20 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE TAXIS under 47 000 Note these standards remain for change of vehicle transactions on licences under 47 000 until January 2012 only after which ALL wheelchair accessible vehicles are required to meet the later 47 000 standards upon licence renewal change of vehicle wn 0 A ct O 3 Requirements I nspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Basic Vehicle Definition amp A vehicle constructed or converted specifically so that they accommodate at least one person seated in his her wheelchair when travelling on the road and at least three adult passengers It shall have a permanent roof Side facing seats are not permitted An Engineer s Report less than 90 days old is required confirming that the adaptations meet the relevant provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2003 Road Traffic Acts 1961 2006 Roads Act 2007 and any statutory instruments made there under and the wheelchair accessible taxi specific requirements page 23 Visual assessment It shall be possible to board a person seated in a wheelchair
32. e a mass of 136kg placed in the centre of a single step For steps designed to accommodate more than one person at a time a mass of 272kg placed in the centre of a double step Initial visual assessment If in doubt check as described with appropriate approximate mass The deflection is assessed relative to the vehicle and not to the ground Vehicles assessed thus far have presented no concerns Insufficiently rigid step assembly Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 30 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Kneeling Suspension Systems Where a vehicle is fitted with a kneeling suspension system the vehicle and system shall comply with the following requirements A master control and a separate user control for the kneeling system function shall be required to enable operation of the system Any control which initiates the lowering or raising of any part or the whole of the body relative to the road surface Shall be clearly identified and under the direct control of the driver or the wheelchair occupant or assistant The lowering process shall be capable of being stopped and immediately reversed by either of the controls above The kneeling system shall not allow the vehicle to be driven at a speed of more than 5km h where the vehicle is lower than the normal height of travel A
33. e a minimum of 1360mm Manufacturer dimensions shall be used or measurements made accordingly Almost all vehicles with sufficient wheelchair space will meet this requirement Applies to main row of rear passenger seats i e for vehicles with more than one row of rear seats assess the row most obviously intended for regular use Insufficient shoulder dimension Folding amp Additional Seats Seats shall not be added that contravene any of the relevant requirements The replacement of a seat by a swivel seat fitted by an approved installer is not contrary to this requirement Folding or removable seats as supplied by the original manufacturer and respecting the relevant technical requirements of EC ECE Type Approval or equivalent national standards are acceptable For the avoidance of doubt the term manufacturer in this instance usually refers to the holder of the vehicle Type Approval certificate and would not ordinarily be a vehicle convertor The Assessor s Report will include details as to test reports etc Visual assessment to ascertain either obvious compliance with OEM standards or obvious aftermarket adaptations that lack any certification proof Original folding seats as evidenced by the Owner s Handbook are acceptable Modified or non original tested and approved seats seat belts seat or seat belt anchorages without proof of meeting recognised EC standards An Assessor s Report alo
34. e area of all vehicles for fitness for purpose For licences above 45 000 refer to Model Report Check for guard or securing cover Some common sense is required a cargo net is generally acceptable if anchored along edges and corners The luggage area SHALL accept the folded dummy wheelchair shape Check Model Report for details as to number of passengers to be licensed for Any licence number luggage space filthy damp unusable For licences above 45 000 the remainder below applies 420 secure litres total including the wheelchair template 195 litres is not available No ability to store wheelchair shape No security of luggage area In case of taxis seats not compliant with legroom etc in order to meet luggage requirements Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 40 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 un 0 A ct o 3 Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Front Passenger Seat Requirements Taxi and hackney licences above 45 000 only Model Report details this The top of the uncompressed front passenger seat squab Shall be at least 275mm from the floor of the vehicle with a foot exit space radius at floor level between the corner of the squab and the door pillar of 350mm minimum There shall be a foot space of at least 350mm long by 350mm wide a clear predominantly flat area on the floor of
35. e for this exist resolution of displayed result of minimum visible light transmission light meter 3 Any sunroof is not considered a 7 A band of maximum 125mm depth at the top upper edge of window for the purpose of this Upper windscreen darkened band E the front windscreen shall be permitted a lesser degree of requirement in excess of 125mm deep E visible light transmission e it may be darker Inspection or measurement of any sunstrip or gradient tint gt The existing mandatory roof sign with the internationally Visual inspection The symbol to Non compliant roof sign Ez recognised accessibility symbol for wheelchair accessible be at least 85mm in height on a g taxis shall be required See Page 35 National Vehicle roof signs 105mm on accessible g Standards Requirements publication for details doors of wheelchair accessible Lack of wheelchair symbol 9 hackneys E Wheelchair accessible hackneys shall be required to display Wheelchair symbol too small the accessibility symbol externally on a door Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 37 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Advertising Advertising shall be allowed in or on wheelchair accessible taxis but is not permitted in or on wheelchair accessible hackneys Visual internal and external assessment An interior
36. g the number of doors Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 46 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Stretched Tyre Specification and GVW For stretched vehicles the tyre load rating should be checked The tyre load shall be appropriate for the stretched design gross vehicle weight The design GVW shall generally be indicated on the vehicle manufacturer plate For vehicles below 3 500 kg GVW a 107 tyre load rating or greater shall be required unless documentary evidence is provided to the contrary For any vehicle the tyre load rating shall be appropriate to the stated axle weights see Table in Appendix 1 page 51 Visual inspection of stretched vehicles with reference to the design weights Documentary evidence can be the official chassis plate affixed to the vehicle Specifically record the tyre load rating and the design axle weights for vehicles with GVW in excess of 3 500 kg Tyre load rating less than required by relevant axle load rating Advertising is not allowed in or on limousines Visual internal and external Internal or external advertising Oo For avoidance of doubt and in consideration of practicalities assessment present excepting that expressly the following shall be allowed on all vehicles permitted P The owner s driver s or company details
37. her temporary devices such as inflational tyre sealant Visual inspection If doubt exists as to the manufacturer s original supply the vehicle presenter should be asked for documentary evidence e g brochure etc Missing or faulty provision for puncture unless genuinely not supplied at all by manufacturer Insecure parts likely to present a danger It is not permitted to simply substitute an inflational can where the manufacturer would originally have provided a spare wheel Interior Lighting The standard interior lighting shall be in full working condition Visual inspection no requirement for door position to automatically operate lights Additional interior lighting in wheelchair accessible vehicle should all work Luggage area lights are not checked Missing or non operational interior lighting Torch A working handheld torch shall be carried and stored safely within the vehicle Visual assessment Missing or non operational torch Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 19 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Each passenger requires their own seating position Assess Seating positions as Lack of seating width A minimum seat squab width of 400mm shall be required outlined in Requirements For for each seating position many vehicles the Mode
38. icle can only be categorised as one of these SPSVs AFTER successful completion of the relevant Initial Suitability Inspection The Initial Suitability Inspection is limited to mechanically propelled vehicles having at least four wheels designed and constructed for the carriage of passengers of maximum design gross vehicle weight 3 500kg and having a maximum of eight seats excluding the driver s seat References to offside and nearside front and rear are construed as being based upon sitting normally in the vehicle looking through the windscreen and driving on the left carriageway in Ireland Nearside is therefore kerbside in normal driving conditions Anchorages the parts of the vehicle structure or seat structure or any other part of the vehicle to which the safety belt assemblies or the wheelchair restraints are to be secured In respect of seats themselves then seat anchorage means the system by which the seat assembly is secured to the vehicle structure including the affected parts of the vehicle structure Assessor s Report an assessment made by a mechanical or automotive engineer automotive assessor or a person with similar qualifications who by reason of his or her competence experience and independence is an appropriate person to assess the fitness and safety of a mechanically propelled vehicle In this regard the format of the Assessor s Report is principally the collection of data test certificates and
39. icle is a convertible Sun roof in such condition as to leak or present a danger to occupants Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 24 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Luggage Requirement There shall be luggage space capable of safely containing at least 420 litres as measured by the VDA method Any luggage carried shall be safely secured The overall luggage capacity shall be checked against manufacturer details where available Where that data is unavailable the luggage capacity shall be assessed in substantially the same manner as the VDA method using blocks of 200mm x 100mm x 50mm This may require prior arrangement The capacity of any spare wheel well shall not be included for assessing the luggage space volume A guard or cover shall be fitted that is intended to prevent luggage from injuring any passenger in the event of an accident Space for a folded wheelchair shall be provided A dummy volume may be used to check the shape of the luggage space this shall be a parallel sided box of maximum external dimensions 735mm x 330mm x 805mm to ensure that a folded wheelchair can be safely carried For wheelchair taxis only this luggage capacity requirement shall exist simultaneously with the seating dimensional requirements shown later Remaining Seat Requirements see page 2
40. iderations ccc eee eese ene see hes sies e he he es e dne n n e ne nennen 33 Wheelchair and Occupant Restraint Systems 2 20 sehen eee he se i ense ashes sies e ee he isse sis e esse se re e esses e nn nn 34 Wheelchair and Occupant Restraint Anchorages 0 esee enne es he hes e es e hess i e ss s he e se s e ns e se sn nnne n nnns 34 Anchorage Requiremiernts rei 35 Restraint Marking Si RERO TRU TD TTL mT 35 Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 4 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Alternative Technologles Proof mexica A we Se ed a a bg RUN DON DR RN ended d D X Pr did 36 U rigunrgeee ET 36 HandholdS tii Gr ciar iaa a vee hoa des 36 Interior LIQMtING cermai A A Bae tee AS re ea Sea Tee A NAR PURA DA one dort TR gee RD Ro PET Pee ee a 36 BOOMING eme c eet hie id a do mea gated tnesd aoe Rates 37 Intercom amp Induction Loop 0 EE rr 37 Tinted WINDOWS wasdictisedsnweaaadsadscastiu inch de aphid nana E an a as aaa 37 Accessibility Symbol ii re A a a Sa dece ala eens 37 perdis 38 aerei 38 STANDARD TAAL AND HACKNEY ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 35 tEass dui Raid ipbis qp ME d RPG b EH EROGO E EF RR 39 Basic Vehicle Definition ii reni T eda de etre cde et d a t Puce dul a o a b rap t a re bo ts ed
41. ight means the gross weight of a vehicle laden with the heaviest load which it can reasonably carry having regard to the engine capacity brakes tyres and the general construction of the vehicle and shall until the contrary is shown be taken to be the design gross weight of the vehicle as specified by the manufacturer or distributor of the vehicle or where the design gross weight of the vehicle as specified by the manufacturer or distributor is not ascertainable the design gross weight of the vehicle as specified by an automotive engineer Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 9 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Initial Suitability Inspection Assessment undertaken for the licensing of a vehicle for use as an SPSV to determine that it meets with the requirements defined for that particular SPSV class i e taxi wheelchair accessible taxi hackney or limousine IVA Individual Vehicle Approval a scheme where a vehicle is individually inspected prior to registration to ensure technical compliance with a subset of EC Approval derived regulations resulting in the issue of an Individual Approval Certificate Previously also called SVA Single Vehicle Approval Legal Metrology Service LMS A statutory body within the National Standards Authority of Ireland NSAI and the body responsible for enforcing regulations in relation to measuring instruments including the taximeter which calculates the fares i
42. ils shall be provided In general they should They should not impede general Lack of any handholds be located in the vicinity of the doors and steps and central access or exit 5 pathways These shall be of contrasting colours similar to Handholds that are similar in those seen on buses and trains approximately circular in colour to heir background 5 cross section and approximately 35mm in diameter Their surface should be slip resistant and there should be at least Handholds with sharp edges or x 35mm clearance between the inside of the working surface generally unusable by virtue of of the handhold and any adjacent surface to which it is their size or proximity to other attached or near surfaces Targeted or localised lighting at entrance steps signage and These requirements shall only Lack of targeted lighting or very o floor areas and money slots in any dividing screen shall be apply when the vehicle is dim illumination required stationary Such lighting shall be around 200 lux with general Such lighting is primarily aimed at i background interior levels of around 150 lux identifying the locations of steps 9 entrances etc 3 Any safety notices shall be capable of being read from the Lack of or poorly placed safety c passenger compartment or on entry to the vehicle Only obviously dim illumination notices should actually be tested with the light meter Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010
43. ints Lap belt only for wheelchair occupant Unsuitable wheelchair or occupant system and the wheelchair occupant restraint The Assessor s Report will include details as to test reports etc i v U tc c o 5 E designed and constructed to perform in a similar manner to routing of the occupant belts will restraint system e g mismatched 90 those of a safety belt complying with 77 541 EEC as be unknown components or fittings o a amended The belt shall lie across the person s pelvis and not be Shoulder belts with the upper unduly influenced by any parts shape of the wheelchair anchorage at floor level should itself i e the belt should restrain the person and not the consider carefully the belt run 5 wheelchair It shall be possible to easily release both the wheelchair and the wheelchair occupant restraints in the A User Manual should be present event of an emergency outlining the correct procedure for securing the wheelchair occupant see also page 36 The anchorages for the wheelchair occupant restraints shall Visual inspection of fitted and An Assessor s Report alone i e comply with the technical force requirements as defined in supplied equipment and without test certification etc is 76 115 EEC as amended A safety belt or complete WTORS confirmation that these are the not considered sufficient proof 5 n approved to ISO 10542 shall also be considered accept
44. ion DU A reflective advance warning triangle shall be carried within Visual inspection check for ECE Warning triangle missing o the vehicle It shall be safely and securely installed within Regulation 27 marking insecure sub standard e g no i the vehicle in such a way that the warning triangle can Reg 27 marking or in poor 2 present no danger to the occupants in the event of a condition e g broken High Viz Vest A high visibility safety vest is required It shall meet the standards of ANSI ISEA 107 1999 or 2004 or to BS EN CEN 471 1994 or 2003 Visual inspection check for condition and approval markings The label must indicate compliance most are simply marked EN471 and are acceptable Reflective vest missing badly worn stained filthy or not to specified standard As there are washing restrictions light soiling is not a reason for failure Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 18 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Spare Wheel System The manufacturer s original supply system shall be securely and safely retained in full working order The term system covers a traditional permanent spare wheel tyre assembly a temporary use spare tyre spacesaver wheel tyre assembly and associated tools for swapping this run flat tyres and also ot
45. ish language uimhir chead nais A roof sign that is the incorrect e Check the sign especially the size or has incorrectly sized The offside panel if blank shall be yellow It may display the number section is readily visible information contact details of the taxi the operator or the despatch from the outside company or a representative body If a wheelchair A roof sign of the wrong colours accessible taxi then it shall contain the accessibility symbol Check the number is legible with approx 90mm square and without illumination switched A roof sign with the number not No characters on the offside panel may be bigger than on to the nearside from front and 70mm tall rear The taxi sign light shall be capable of being switched on Check operation There is no Roof sign unable to be switched when the vehicle is available for hire and switched off when requirement to link the taxi sign between lit and unlit the vehicle is not available for hire light to the meter hire status Roof sign linked to ignition or light switch E The 3 panels should be capable of being illuminated Inadequate internal illumination a 3 bulbs usually required or 9 The sign shall not show a white light to the front nor a red opaque backgrounds c light to the rear The illumination shall not be brighter than Display of white light to front or red light to rear Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 43 of 54 Initial S
46. l Report Seating layout such that possible will state this number of seating positions A maximum passenger carrying capacity of 8 passengers exceeds 8 when assessed as For some the Vehicle Registration described A seating position fitted with a safety belt shall be counted Certificate or vehicle data will as one seating position For bench seats without safety belts indicate the original seating E g a long bench seat that has a then the number of seating positions shall be assessed as capacity or vehicle classification more than 8 seat belts or whose lt multiples of the required minimum squab width of 400mm e g goods vehicle size allows for more than 8 c each For example a bench seat with no seat belts of multiples of 400mm g 1500mm squab width shall be assessed as providing three If doubt exists then the vehicle 7 seating positions presenter will need to provide the The intent is clear a maximum a associated proof information capability of seating 8 passengers Oo Seats seatbelts and anchorages cannot be simply is not to be exceeded 5 added changed without some certifying proof 3 Lack of Engineer s Report for uU An Engineer s Report is required in all cases where seats modified vehicles seat belts or anchorages are not original fitment e g vehicles adapted from vans A converted seat or seat mechanism is unlikely to be accepted unless the presenter provides some proof of being fit for purpose A swivel seat is require
47. mall elastic gauze bandages DIN 61 631 MB 6 6cm x 4m conforming bandage sterile gauze wound compresses 10cm x 10cm non adherent wound dressings triangular bandages DIN 13 168 D 96cm x 96cm x 135cm pair of scissors DIN 58 279 A 145 insulating emergency foil blanket gold silver 160cm x 210cm disposable vinyl gloves large first aid brochure six languages e e BP e e N Oo N oU N e GQ RP A COO table of contents Note Items marked sterile generally have an expiry date that should be observed Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 49 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Irish Health amp Safety Authority General First Aid Applications 2007 Recommended Contents for First Aid Travel Kit contents should be kept up to date 20 2 2 6 1 1 1 10 1 3 2 x 20mls 1 1 1 1 xk Adhesive Plasters Sterile Eye Pads No 16 bandage attached Individually Wrapped Triangular Bandages Safety Pins Individually Wrapped Sterile Unmedicated Wound Dressings Medium No 8 10 x 8cms Individually Wrapped Sterile Unmedicated Wound Dressings Large No 9 13 x 9cms Individually Wrapped Sterile Unmedicated Wound Dressings Extra Large No 3 28 x 17 5 cm Individually Wrapped Disinfectant Wipes Paramedic Shears Pairs of Examination Gloves Sterile water where there is no clear running water Pocket Face Mask Water Based Burns Dressing Small 10 x 10 cm Water Based
48. n interlock related to the handbrake warning system is acceptable In this paragraph master control means a control which enables another control to activate the relevant system but which itself alone is not capable of activating that system Test of vehicle or consult Owner s Handbook for confirmation of operating characteristics Very few vehicles are fitted with kneeling rear suspension Most return to normal ride height when ramp or doors are closed Check for automatic or manual interlocks and their correct functioning Ability to drive in excess of 5km h with suspension lowered below that recommended in the Owner s Handbook or in an obviously or dangerously low position Boarding Aid There shall be a ramp or other mechanism to permit the person using the wheelchair to enter and exit the vehicle safely at all times This may entail assistance This boarding aid shall be either part of the vehicle or carried securely within the vehicle Visual inspection of presence of ramp or lift Lack of ramp lift or boarding aids for wheelchair users Insecure ramp or lift stowage when not in use All ramps shall Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 31 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Have a maximum permitted ramp angle of 16 relative to For side entr
49. n taxis Licence Renewal Assessment LRA Interim assessment of vehicle at licence renewal for continued suitability compliance No certificate is issued it is an integral part of the licence renewal process Low Volume Approval a national Type Approval scheme for vehicles manufactured in small production numbers and produced under a Conformity of Production quality system Lies between the Single Vehicle Approval process and the ECWVTA process Also called Small Series Approval Model Report A document or file containing specific unchanging information pertaining to a particular vehicle model regarding for example luggage capacity dimensions Only applicable to vehicles manufactured under a Conformity of Production process i e with ECWVTA or National Low Volume Small Series Approvals Modified Vehicle a vehicle that is not a standard mass produced passenger car in the same base specification as originally manufactured and includes any vehicle that has been converted from a goods or light goods vehicle without subsequent Type Approval any vehicle that has been stretched any vehicle that is a kit car or any vehicle where the seats safety belts and safety belt anchorages are not original or the installation of these items is not original MPV Multi purpose vehicle often a larger vehicle National Type Approval or Low Volume or Small Series National Type Approval Similar schemes to ECWVTA but technically are only valid in the
50. ne i e without test certification etc is not considered sufficient proof Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 28 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure Notes Reasons for Failure An access intermediate step is required for at least one If kneeling suspension is fitted Step or floor height in excess of 2 door exceeding 1150mm in aperture height fitted to the this may be used to meet this 230mm at the relevant door S rear or nearside of the vehicle where the floor or lowest requirement The height of any 5 internal surface e g integral step of the passenger step will be measured at the Given the lack of a dedicated I compartment is higher than 230mm from the ground The centre of its width The height of completely flat measuring floor o height of this first step surface above the ground shall not the first step in relation to the and vehicle manufacturing 7 Y be more than 230mm ground will be measured with the tolerances the max acceptable vehicle on level ground at its step height when assessed in the o Intent is to assist boarding at the accessible door mass in running order unladen workshop via tape measure may 2 kerb weight and the tyre be taken as 250mm ir equipment and pressure being as specified by the manufacturer for the design gross vehicle weight The step shall not be temporary in nature
51. not be present Lack of safety edges on on underfloor ramps see below detachable ramps Y Comply with the requirements of I S EN 1756 2 2004 and 9 Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations LOLER 1998 or equivalent national regulations 5 Lack of SWL markings 2 Be maintained in good working order and be available for use at all times The LOLER Regulations require that Lack of guidance in User Manual S personnel lifts are tested and certified every six months by Inspection of service records for as to ramp maintenance a competent person Display a Safe Working Load SWL marking Provide a maintenance specification appropriate to the design of the ramp powered lifts date of issue must be less than 6 months old Lack of documentary evidence as to maintenance of powered lifts Innovative Entry Solutions amp Discretionary Considerations Alternative innovative approaches will be encouraged by the Commission Discretionary relaxation of certain parts of this section may be considered by the Commission upon application by the manufacturer in respect of innovative design solutions whose essential features make compliance with the above unachievable Such a request shall contain The reason why the technologies or concepts in question prevent the vehicle or component from complying with the requirements of one or more of the above A description of the areas of innovative design and their benefi
52. nside and the outside of the vehicle A tailgate horizontally hinged is not considered a door Side facing seats are not permitted There shall be a permanent rigid roof covering all of the driver and passenger compartments Sunroofs shall be permitted including full length items A tailgate horizontally hinged is not considered a door Rear doors vertically hinged shall be considered acceptable as a door providing that they are obviously designed or constructed for the intended purpose of passenger access All taxis regardless of licence number and hackneys on licences above 45 000 require 4 doors For licences above 45 000 refer to Model Report for general compliance with internal dimensions seating positions and luggage capacity Check all doors open readily from inside and outside Rear doors not intended for passenger access do not count as doors for the purpose of assessing the number of doors Intended for access implies a step or provision and simple access to seats Seating for less than 4 or more than 8 see here also page 20 Insufficient doors Doors not capable of being opened from inside or out Vehicle is a convertible Sun roof in such condition as to leak or present a danger to occupants Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 39 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Note
53. nsions amp Allowances 1 2 0 6 II I enne e esee hehe e ee e he isses e ee he is ie is e s e se nne e s e nen enn nn 26 Seat Belto a cc 27 Seat FaDriCr osoa oaae aaa a aA aa aa da ha a d ae O deeded suas diet png da a O a aa r a a a ea evince burs d aai DUNS 27 Front Passenger Seat Requirement 0 a pE E AE E O AE e rr 27 Remaining Seat Requirermients ore iex che a XE ER DH EFE 28 Rear Shoulder ROOM bep Rede x Ie x A new ew x TA uk In EP YR Ax Gc uir 3 ex neu Xie dy re Y IR up dhe XGA ven dan Ike E 28 Folding amp Additional Seats e pe e ux e e y eR NER ee 28 Floor r Step Helght pieta eee du ete eb n oe etas muet ule A te sa cob aem team teh Ar 29 STOP NEO RE TEIL 29 cio m Padat a 29 Step Slope tet cies EE 29 SEP O O aa idas dl hen is 29 Step RetractO Mm a a e o bets al dd et 30 Step Projection iii A a 30 Step Strength amp Stiffness 0 000 a tadas 30 Kneeling SUSPENSION Systems dto tert edet En bee ed eene A tada 31 Boardind olo 3 i cree Sash de cee eee dt dois 31 Ramp Arigle amp StITfDess oec dtes Io EP P eve PE nsw ey etna o ti 32 Detachable Ramp Location amp Stowage isssssssssssssssssssssssees s emen e eee e he he ike esie he essi ded s he essi d e ne es e se ne s es e sese sen n n n enn 32 Ratmp Surface amp Matkings secte ERE REM eM x HE SUPR UU a dees epee 33 Innovative Entry Solutions Discretionary Cons
54. nt on more than one panel per side front rear Interior trim in badly dirty or torn condition Insecure or missing trim Unpleasant smell from interior Side windows inoperable Any door not operable from the inside or the outside Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 16 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure 5 Pen or pencil and paper shall be available from the driver Visual assessment of presence Missing or not working Ls at all times for the assistance of communication between and working condition T passenger and driver sc 0 E O Q Seat fabrics shall be original equipment manufacturer Visual inspection Obviously poor quality seat uE quality cloth upholstery or leather retrims or equivalent material e g torn failing g quality stitching filthy dirty or badly LL mismatched across seating rows The internal temperature within the vehicle shall be maintained to at least 20 C with engine idling during an external ambient temperature of 5 C Passenger Compartment Temperature Initial subjective assessment feel If in doubt test with thermometer The location for measurement shall be at least 500mm from any heat cooling vent The temperature shall be measured with a thermometer on the longitudinal centre line of the passenger compartment
55. nter should provide a recent certified weighbridge ticket Less than 4 wheels Insufficient wheelbase or track Suspected overweight chassis plate indicates excess weight Vehicle Registration Certificate indicates more than 9 seats Vehicle Registration Certificate indicates goods vehicle N1 AND lack of valid Engineer s Report Cleanliness Interior and exterior of the vehicle shall be clean and of tidy condition and appearance at all times Paintwork repairs shall not spoil the overall appearance of the vehicle Incomplete unfinished or inadequate repairs shall be deemed unacceptable specifically repairs in progress shall not be permitted All repairs shall be consistent with adjacent body panels no runs flat or uneven finishes and shall present a good colour match Trim material shall not be split torn unsecured dirty stained or sagging Windows shall be clean Side windows shall be capable of operation by passengers where applicable Doors operable from inside and outside Visual assessment of internal and external condition and cleanliness Prevailing weather conditions must be respected Check passenger windows for internal operation Check doors for internal and external operation Visually obvious paintwork defects that spoil overall appearance Unfinished bodywork repairs As a guide external dents generally extending bigger than hand size and or deeper than 15mm and prese
56. o 108 1000 580 99 775 109 1030 600 100 800 110 1060 670 104 900 114 1180 Load Index 115 116 117 118 119 kg 1215 1250 1285 1320 1360 Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 51 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Figure 1 Wheelchair Tip Down Seat Intrusion Allowance Note if 1200mm exists between tip down and seat at any height then the tip down foot space is not relevant Wheelchair Space Intrusion Allowance Fold Down Temporary Seat on Bulkhead n d 1000 min Permanent 1200 min Seat 270 Min lt gt 200 Max into 1200 min dim Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 52 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 APPENDIX 2 Wheelchair accessible taxi restraint details for licences below 47 000 The area for the accommodation of the wheelchair and its occupant must be provided with a restraint system or systems fixed to the structure of the vehicle by an appropriate means for the purpose of securing the wheelchair and its occupant For the purpose of securing the wheelchair and its occupant the an appropriate means requirement may be met by a vehicle equipped as follows a four restraints two to the front and two to the rear provided for the purpose of connecting the wheelchair to anchorage points on the vehicle b A minimum of a lap belt provided for the pur
57. or arrangement may be required At least one other opening from inside or outside door not necessarily of wheelchair accessible dimensions that enables access to the passenger and wheelchair occupant compartment Doors may be to the nearside or to the rear Rear tailgates are acceptable as the accessible door if obviously designed for boarding of passengers or wheelchairs Check for ease of opening Check dimensions with template hold substantially perpendicular to direction of boarding i e up ramp and into wheelchair space The opening and any interior restrictions must be at least 745mm x 1250mm Only one door total accessing wheelchair space Accessible door too small for template entry Accessible sized door does not permit unobstructed access to wheelchair space Accessible and or other door not operable from inside and outside Two accessible sized doors NOT required Wheelchair Space Dimensions amp Allowances The taximeter shall be visible on entry and exit by all passengers The wheelchair and the person travelling in it shall travel either forwards facing or rearwards facing Side facing orientation of the wheelchair and occupant shall not be permitted There shall be a space exclusively available for the accommodation of at least one person to travel within their wheelchair This space shall have a predominantly flat and level surface but it is accepted that in some conversions
58. or supplying vehicle DVD screens internally displaying 7 agent s details may be displayed beneath the number plate advertising messages are not E or in the lower half of the rear window the maximum size of permitted lt such a statement to be no more than 500mm x 20mm in size or equivalent area 10 000 square mm The fitment of taxi meters in limousines is prohibited Visual inspection Presence of any form of taxi D meter in limousines for any r7 reason Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 47 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 SAFETY EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL SPSV Fire Extinguisher 2kg dry powder unit to EN3 standard certified for fires of class A B C and marked accordingly Extinguisher to be safely secured in the luggage compartment wherever possible It cannot be loose Where the EN3 marking is not on the extinguisher there must be a traceable certificate from the manufacturer supplier that references the extinguisher to the certificate by model number or other similar identifier Warning Triangle Advance warning triangle compliant with ECE Regulation R27 and marked as such Reflective High Visibility Vest High visibility safety vest approved to ANSI ISEA 107 1999 or 2004 or to BS EN 471 or CEN 471 1994 or 2003 and marked accordingly Most simply display EN471 on the label this is acceptable Torch Working handheld torch st
59. orages If there is proof from the presenter that an alternative restraint system including anchorages has been tested to an equivalent level 20g impact this is acceptable provided that the test report is representative of the vehicle presented Missing or incomplete restraints for the wheelchair Insufficient restraints or lack of proof of alternative system compliance An Assessor s Report alone i e without test certification etc is not considered sufficient proof Restraint Markings In addition to wheelchair tie down equipment complying with the relevant part of ISO 10542 being required the vehicle anchorages shall still be shown to meet the strength requirements above All tie down or restraint devices shall be clearly marked or designed or permanently attached to their anchorages in such a manner that it is not possible to attach them to the incorrect anchorage point The Assessor s Report will include details as to test reports etc Note that ISO 10542 markings indicate only that the restraints themselves are approved this does not include the anchorages usually to the vehicle floor Separate certification of proof of the anchorage strength is required Webbing style restraints and their connections should be assessed in a similar manner to seat belts and their buckles Unmarked restraints or wrongly marked restraints or obvious defects An Assessor s Report alone i e without te
60. ored safely within the vehicle Pen and Paper Pen pencil and paper within the vehicle First Aid Kit Please see section below for details of compliant kits Any date marked items to be within date The initial check will be any external manufacturer supplier reference DIN kits are externally marked as such Spot checks on contents may be made Suppliers should note that simply marking a kit on the outside as DIN 13164 compliant is likely to be interpreted as misrepresentation and possibly falls to other agencies to police O Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 48 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 ACCEPTABLE FIRST AID KITS THE DIN 13164 OR THE HSA TRAVEL KIT DIN 13164 kit contents popular automotive vehicle first aid kit often found as standard in German cars Directly as per DIN standard 1 roll of self adhesive plaster DIN 13 019 A size 5m roll x 2 5cm width adhesive tape pieces of self adhesive bandage size 10cm x 6cm DIN 13 019 first aid dressings large plasters large sterile first aid packet DIN 13 151 G standard first aid dressing large 10cm x 12cm medium sterile first aid packets DIN 13 151 M standard first aid dressing medium 8cm x 10cm large sterile dressing for burns DIN 13 152 A burn dressing 60cm x 80cm small sterile dressings for burns DIN 13 152 BR burn dressing 40cm x 60cm large elastic gauze bandages DIN 61 631 MB 8 8cm x 4m conforming bandage s
61. oubt as to originality of seat Modified or non original tested in accordance with relevant technical requirements of or seat belt anchorages request and approved seats seat belts M passenger car M1 EC ECE Construction Equipment and Use further proof of their compliance seat or seat belt anchorages E Regulations or equivalent national standards Please also to these European or equivalent without proof of meeting E see the sub section Wheelchairs and Occupant Restraints standards recognised standards b see page 34 ui An Assessor s Report alone i e The Assessor s Report will include details as to test reports without test certification etc is etc not considered sufficient proof Seat fabrics shall be original equipment manufacturer Visual inspection Obviously poor quality seat r f quality cloth upholstery or leather retrims or equivalent material e g torn failing a quality stitching filthy dirty or badly u mismatched across seating rows Front Passenger Seat Requirements For the front passenger seat The top of the uncompressed front passenger seat squab shall be at least 275mm from the floor of the vehicle with a foot exit space radius at floor level between the corner of the squab and the door pillar of 350mm minimum There shall be a foot space of at least 350mm long by 350mm wide a clear predominantly flat area on the floor of the vehicle immediately in front of the seat of minimum size 350mm x
62. out n boarding of passengers ramps or boarding aids are accessible doors by measurement boarding aid provision 9 required to be suitable for use at both accesses or with templates It should be a possible to move from one Excessive intrusion into working o accessible door to the wheelchair aperture of accessible doors 2 A tailgate horizontally hinged is not considered a door space and on to the other n accessible door freely with the Obstruction preventing passage y Rear doors vertically hinged shall be considered door template from wheelchair space to either lt acceptable as a door providing that they are obviously accessible door designed or constructed for the intended purpose of Rear doors not intended for passenger access passenger access do not count as doors for the purpose of assessing the number of doors The wheelchair space shall be at least 1200mm long and Check dimensional space Excessive intrusion into the S 750mm wide with 1300mm headroom minimum provided with templates or minimum 1200mm length by tip Su This space is for the exclusive use of the wheelchair and its measuring equipment down seats max allowed is v 5 occupant Removeable seats are prohibited in this space 200mm 270mm min below tip p Permanently installed tip down seats may intrude when If the 1200mm is met then the down as per Fig 1 if applicable so folded down position for use and may only intrude as per tip down intrusion is irrelevant D
63. plates or washers not less than 35 mm2 in size and not less than 1 mm in thickness fastened tightly with locknuts For each additional length of track measuring 120 mm or part thereof there must be at least one additional bolt or screw conforming to the above specification The bolts or set screws nearest each end of the track must be located not more than 25 mm from the ends of the track and the distance between adjacent bolts or set screws must be not be less than 75 mm nor more than 125 mm g if the location of an anchorage point is contoured the reinforcing plate or washer must be formed to fit the shape of the area and must be augmented if necessary with a shaped spacer so as to ensure that the face of the locknut is parallel to the surface against which it is tightened h in any case where the bolts or set screws pass through double skin or hollow panels spacers of the correct dimensions must be used to avoid compressing or causing distortion to the panels Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 53 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 54 of 54
64. pose of securing the wheelchair occupant c fixed anchorage points provided for each wheelchair restraint and for the lap belt or alternatively straight tracks provided that allows for variation in the location of anchorage points The location of anchorage points under either of these arrangements must be such as to provide as a minimum one anchorage point in each of the locations Al and A2 or alternatively A3 and A4 in addition to one anchorage point in each of the locations B1 and B2 or alternatively B3 and B4 as set out in the following drawing d the wheelchair s front and rear restraints can be connected to the front and rear anchorage points respectively The lap belt can be either connected to the two rear restraints of the wheelchair to the two rear anchorage points for the wheelchair or to two anchorage points positioned to provide downward and rearward restraint on the pelvic area of the wheelchair occupant e each single fixed anchorage point is attached to the structure of the vehicle by a high tensile bolt or set screw of not less than 10 mm in diameter with a reinforcing plate or washer having no sharp edges and measuring not less than 75 mm2 in size and not less than 3 mm in thickness fastened tightly with a locknut f where a track is used it must have a minimum length of 200 mm and must be attached to the structure of the vehicle by a minimum of 4 high tensile bolts or set screws of not less than 6 mm in diameter with reinforcing
65. red by an Engineer s Report or the Assessor s Report concept The reason for the two tiers of Report is that it is not practicable to apply the later standards to earlier vehicles when and which Report is required is made clear in the relevant sections of this Manual Specific advice from the Commission and a template is available for the Assessor s Report or Engineer s Report Only the authorised format is accepted Responsibility of the vehicle presenter The vehicle presenter must be prepared for the vehicle inspection and it is wise to have the original Vehicle Registration Certificate document and must make ready the following items for inspection and they should be left on the front passenger seat except the fire extinguisher which should remain in its bracket in its safely secured position Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 13 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Pen or pencil and paper Torch High Viz Vest with specification label obvious Warning Triangle out of any box with E mark obvious First Aid Kit For the avoidance of doubt and any dispute it is not the Inspector s job to find the above items if they are not made readily available for inspection the items will be failed Where any proof is required e g Engineer s Report the onus lies entirely with the vehicle presenter to provide The Commission provides a template for these Reports in a standardised format avail
66. s Insufficient leg room Leg room in taxis only able to be achieved with luggage volume reduced below that required Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 41 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure i Taxi and hackney licences above 45 000 only Model Report Applies to taxi and hackney details this licences above 45 000 only 3 Applies from 2012 to all taxi and 9 E hackney licences no Ec The shoulder room of the rear seat s shall be a minimum of Refer to Model Report Insufficient shoulder dimension g 1360mm Taxi and hackney licences above 45 000 only Applies to all taxi and hackney Vehicle is older than 8 years 11 licences from 2011 months and 31 days at time of Vehicles shall be no more than nine years old on the day of inspection when referenced to inspection date of licence application renewal change of original date of first registration vehicle referenced to the date of first registration The date o of first registration is the date on which the vehicle was first Applies to all taxi and hackney E registered irrespective of the country of registration licences from 2011 o E Taxi and hackney licences below 45 000 at Change of Applies at change of vehicle to all 5 Vehicle taxi and hackney licences gt Vehicles to be less than 9 years of age At transfer of li
67. s Reasons for Failure Luggage Requirements For taxi licences below 45 000 reasonable provision for luggage required i e one piece per licensed passenger For hackney licences below 45 000 there is no luggage requirement For taxi and hackney licences above 45 000 the remainder below applies Model Report details this There shall be a luggage compartment capable of safely containing a minimum volume of 420 litres as measured by the VDA method The overall luggage capacity shall be checked against manufacturer details where available Where that data is unavailable the luggage capacity shall be assessed in substantially the same manner as the VDA method using blocks of 200mm x 100mm x 50mm The capacity of any spare wheel well shall not be included for assessing the luggage space volume Space for a folded wheelchair shall be provided within the total luggage volume A template volume shall be used to check the shape of the luggage space to ensure that a folded wheelchair can be safely carried Hatchback estate cars and MPV style vehicles shall be fitted with a guard or cover that is intended to prevent luggage from injuring a passenger in the event of an accident For taxis the luggage capability shall be checked with seats in their compliant locations with the legroom rules page 41 For hackneys there is no need for this luggage space to exist simultaneously with the legroom of all seats Check luggag
68. s are not permitted ECWVTA CoC or National or Low Volume CoC or SVA IVA Approval Certificate required as part of Assessor s Report information A wheelchair accessible vehicle complete with ECWVTA or Low Volume certification may be assessed once for principal internal dimensions and thereafter assessed via a Model Report i e as per mass produced saloons Converted vans will usually be apparent in their seat or seat belt installation being obviously non OEM fit Headlining and window fit may also be obviously aftermarket In all cases documentary evidence shall be produced and it must relate to that individual vehicle The Assessor s Report should collate all of this information leaving the VI to assess if the vehicle and papers describe the same vehicle Vehicle not compliant with M1 standards no documentary proof of M1 test pass e g no SVA or Low Volume car approval certificate Onus is on presenter to supply information as required by the Vehicle I nspector An Assessor s Report alone i e no M1 vehicle approval certificate is not acceptable Presented vehicle not the same as that for which documents are provided General Require ment There shall be a permanent rigid roof covering all of the driver and passenger compartments Specifically cabriolets and convertibles shall not be considered suitable Sunroofs shall be permitted including full length items Visual inspection Veh
69. ssessment requirements the inspection procedures and reasons for failure The chassis number Vehicle Identification Number or VIN on the vehicle must correspond with the information on the Vehicle Registration File Book Licence Certificate and on the licence application form Where difficulty is encountered in locating the chassis number it is the responsibility of the applicant or vehicle presenter to establish the location of this information on the vehicle Inspectors need not start a test in the following circumstances where i in their opinion any part of the vehicle or its equipment is in such a dirty or dangerous condition as to make it unreasonably difficult to carry out the inspection ii a vehicle Registration Book Licence Certificate is not produced or the vehicle identity cannot be independently confirmed iii the vehicle Registration File Book Licence Certificate is produced and the chassis number on the vehicle does not comply with the Registration Book Licence Certificate or there are obvious anomalies between the official data and the vehicle e g number of seats The inspection is a check on condition and suitability The roadworthiness of the vehicle is a separate test conducted by NCTS A detailed assessment of a vehicle s engineering design and construction is not part of the Inspection Where this is requested the Inspection Procedure amp Notes indicate the acceptable level of certification required For example this
70. st certification etc is not considered sufficient proof Vehicle anchorages in poor condition or not the same as those for which documentary evidence of their strength exists Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 35 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Alternative Technologies Proof Alternative restraint systems may be considered acceptable but the vehicle manufacturer or converter shall provide proof that the system demonstrates an equivalent level of performance Please also see Page 34 National Vehicle Standards Requirements publication Inspection of certification and confirmation that the certification is representative of the vehicle presented NOTE Full ECWVTA certification does NOT automatically include the wheelchair or wheelchair occupant restraints or their anchorages Separate proof is required Alternative system of restraints is not the same in the vehicle as that for which certification is provided An Assessor s Report alone with an opinion as to their performance is not considered adequate proof A User Manual shall be present Visual assessment that User Lack of User Manual or a Manual 5 S Manual is present and relates to that does not cover the specialist 5 the vehicle and specialist equipment presented equipment Handholds or ra
71. the vehicle immediately in front of the seat of minimum size 350mm x 350mm Applies to taxi and hackney licences above 45 000 only Applies from 2012 to all taxi and hackney licences Refer to Model Report The front seat may be adjusted to the most rearward position for this assessment Front passenger seat too low Insufficient exit radius Insufficient front passenger floor foot space Remaining Seat Requirements Taxi and hackney licences above 45 000 only Model Report details this For all other passenger seats A minimum seat squab width of 400mm is required for each passenger The top of each uncompressed squab shall be at least 275mm and not more than 460mm from the vehicle floor at the front of the squab There shall be at least 650mm measured longitudinally and horizontally from the front face of the backrest at uncompressed squab height to the rear face of the seat or surface immediately in front of it Where seats face each other i e opposite there shall be at least 250mm between the front edges of the opposing seat squabs Note that for taxis the above shall exist whilst maintaining the minimum luggage volumes page 40 specified Applies to taxi and hackney licences above 45 000 only Applies from 2012 to all taxi and hackney licences Refer to Model Report Check Model Report for details as to number to be licensed for Insufficient seat width Seat height outside of limit
72. there may be localised interruptions The wheelchair space shall be at least 1200mm long and 700mm wide with 1350mm headroom minimum see explanatory diagram page 52 and also page 30 of National Vehicle Standards Requirements publication Check that the taximeter is visible especially to boarding wheelchair passengers The wheelchair space should have been certified by the Assessor s Report Checks may be made with the template provided for the intrusion of the tip down seats The intrusion allowance is into the 1200mm measurement If the 1200mm is met then the tip down intrusion is irrelevant Taximeter not readily visible at entry or exit Side facing wheelchair location Insufficient space for wheelchair Floor space unacceptably interrupted by irregularities inconsistent with basic design requirement of carrying a wheelchair Excessive intrusion into the minimum 1200mm length by tip down seats max allowed is 200mm Insufficient foot space under tip down seats min of 270mm required within intrusion into 1200mm length Insufficient headroom min 1350mm in vicinity of wheelchair occupant during turning and restraining Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 26 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Safety belts anchorages seats and head restraints shall be If in d
73. tion Wheelchair and occupant cannot be accommodated in fore aft orientation Lack of Engineer s Report Engineer s Report out of date or Engineer s Report relates to different vehicle installation Roof Sign For taxi roof sign taximeter fare chart and advertising requirements please see Taxi Additional Specific Requirements page 43 Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 23 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE TAXIS above 47 000 AND WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE HACKNEYS Note there are some small differences but principally the vehicle standards are the same The wheelchair accessible taxi requires a roof sign requirements and the seating dimensions simultaneously taximeter and printer and fare sticker and may display advertising The wheelchair accessible hackney does not need to meet the luggage un 0 A c o 3 Requirements I nspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure Basic Vehicle Definition amp Assessor s Report A vehicle of category M1 constructed or converted specifically so that they accommodate at least one person seated in his her wheelchair when travelling on the road and at least three adult passengers A goods category N1 vehicle may only be converted provided that the final finished vehicle is assessed to be compliant to passenger car M1 standards Side facing seat
74. ts to driver and passenger A description of the areas of safety concerned and the measures taken A description of any tests and their results that demonstrate an equivalent level of performance or function as is provided by the requirements above For innovative e g underfloor ramps solutions request discretionary authorisation letter from Commission Certain vehicle makes may be pre approved by the Commission in this regard such vehicles will usually have full ECWVTA and be covered by the Model Report Claimed innovation and related exemptions derogations without prior Commission authorisation Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 33 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 un 0 e c o 3 Requirements I nspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure The wheelchair and the person in the wheelchair shall have separate restraint systems The vehicle shall be fitted with a wheelchair restraint system that is suitable for general wheelchair applications The vehicle shall be fitted with a restraint system for the person in the wheelchair with a minimum of three anchorage points providing pelvic and upper torso restraints Visual inspection for restraint system for wheelchair and separate restraints safety belt for occupant in wheelchair Due to the variations in wheelchair design the exact Lack of wheelchair or wheelchair occupant restra
75. uitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Section Requirements Inspection Procedure amp Notes Reasons for Failure The taximeter shall be securely attached to the vehicle Visual assessment Check Insecure taximeter liable to come security of installation of loose from vehicle interfere with i The display shall be capable of being read by all passengers taximeter check printed receipt driver or passenger safety s details match the vehicle identity A printer shall be fitted wired to the taximeter and capable and licence Printer not working printed of automatically printing a receipt including the details of The printer may be located in the receipt not containing the E the vehicle registration and the licence number glovebox does not need to be associated vehicle reg or licence permanently secured to the number containing incorrect reg vehicle but shall be wired to the or licence number taximeter The sun visor National Maximum Taxi Fare sticker displaying Visual assessment for correct up Lack of current fare information the current maximum fare shall be required to be to date sticker and information sticker readily visible in the front 9 E prominently displayed in the front passenger area card passenger area and or lack of e 9 rear passenger information card Bu A Taxi Passenger Information Card is required for rear seat Note the Passenger Information o o passengers Card are sometimes available at m It
76. umentation Engineer s Report missing older old is required confirming that the adaptations meet the Modified vehicles includes than 90 days of incorrect format y A relevant provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2003 Road stretched vehicles kit cars or relevant to a different vehicle 9 t Traffic Acts 1961 2006 Roads Act 2007 and any statutory converted vans or minibus style 9 instruments made there under Specific reference to be vehicles adapted from vans and Dg included to seats seat belts and anchorages any vehicle where the seats seat ul anchorages seat belts and seat belt anchorages are obviously aftermarket specification Where passengers are carried in a compartmented section Check doors for operation from Compartmented passenger of the vehicle i e an area with seats and a permanent rigid inside and outside section with less than two doors roof there shall be at least two doors that open into or access from this compartmented area All such doors shall be n capable of being opened from both the inside and the Doors incapable of being opened a outside of the vehicle from inside and outside a Rear doors vertically hinged shall be considered Rear doors not intended for acceptable as a door providing that they are obviously designed or constructed for the intended purpose of passenger access Tailgates horizontally hinged are not considered doors passenger access do not count as doors for the purpose of assessin
77. urance engineering assessors rather than Chartered Engineers The Engineer s Report is a declaration of compliance and does not specifically include any formal test data The Assessor s Report is different in that it requires the collation of formal test data e g wheelchair anchorages type approval certificate details All such Reports must be less than 90 days old at the time of licensing The Inspector is within his rights to request a Report for vehicles presented that have obviously been converted or modified Visible indications include changes in seating capacity seats that are obviously aftermarket fitment items poor quality internal trim and poor glass installations Type Approval was introduced into Ireland on 29 April 2009 This requires at a minimum an Individual Vehicle Approval IVA prior to first registration In the UK Single Vehicle Approval SVA has existed for a while and is very similar To demonstrate that passenger car standards are met by modified vehicles the Commission requires that an Assessor s Report will include the relevant IVA or SVA certificate details as part of that Report The Type Approval regime in Ireland is in its infancy and the costs etc unclear however the point is that the inspection of engineering changes and their effects is outside of the jurisdiction of both the Initial Suitability Inspection and the Licence Renewal Assessment In one manner or another any changes to modified vehicles will need to be cove
78. words seat belt and safety belt are used interchangeably S l Statutory Instrument a form of secondary legislation that includes regulations and is made in the exercise of a statutory power Space saver A generic term for a spare wheel tyre assembly system specifically designed for restricted speed distance use Specialist equipment Equipment and parts intended to assist persons with disabilities in their boarding use travel and disembarkation of the vehicle Squab The base cushion of the seat upon which the passenger sits Swivel seat Special seat for vehicles that makes it possible to turn around an axis fundamentally perpendicular to the vehicle floor Tailgate In this regard is a horizontally hinged movable body panel or panels or a window composed entirely of glazing material and whose latches and or hinge systems are attached directly to the glazing material and through which cargo would usually be loaded or unloaded A tailgate is not universally recognised as a door Tamper proof disc The licence disc fitted to the windscreen of licensed SPSVs after licensing or renewal of licence Taximeter A device used to measure calculate and display a taxi fare based on the duration travelled or the distance time of day or date and a number of other factors Track width Distance between the centre of a tyre at its contact with the road on one side of a vehicle to the corresponding contact point on the opposite side
79. y assessing the safety of the vehicle As such the majority of items being assessed under the Initial Suitability Inspection are mainly visual and do not require a qualified mechanic Commission for Taxi Regulation 2009 June 2010 v3 0 Page 12 of 54 Initial Suitability Inspection Manual J une 2010 Modified vehicles present a different challenge than either the roadworthiness test or the suitability inspections The design and engineering integrity are likely to have been affected by the modifications and even a qualified mechanic may not be in a position to comment on their safety The Licensing Inspector is not required to verify structural modifications such areas are to be dealt with via either an Engineer s Report or an Assessor s Report as appropriate for the licence category An example would be the wheelchair restraints and anchorages in a wheelchair accessible vehicle the Report accompanying such a vehicle must state compliance with the appropriate regulations and or reference the relevant test certificates The Inspector will check that the Report is relevant to the vehicle being presented All modified vehicles e g converted from goods vehicles vans and all wheelchair accessible vehicles are required to have an Engineer s Report or Assessor s Report that outlines their compliance with the suitability criteria general Road Traffic Act regulations and specific legislation such as seat belts Such reports are compiled mainly by motor ins
80. y vehicles this angle Ramp angle in excess of 16 for true level The ideal suggested ramp angle is less than 11 to be measured assuming the free either side or rear entry vehicles a The vehicle shall be unladen and on flat level ground for the end of the ramp is placed ona 2 purpose of this requirement kneeling suspension may be standard pavement of height Ramp of inadequate E used to meet this requirement 125mm above the ground on stiffness strength o Be able to accommodate a variety of ground and kerb which the vehicle is standing T conditions Consideration of the potential use of the vehicle For rear entry vehicles the ramp Ramp obviously unsuitable for 9 i e accessing the vehicle on slopes hills should be made angle is measured with the free purpose or in very poor condition o and noted in the user manual end on the ground c lt Support a combined wheelchair and occupant mass of o minimum 300kg at any position along its length without See Table 1 page 51 for ramp E permanent deformation or failure lengths versus floor height The Assessor s Report will confirm compliance but occasional checks may be performed Detachable Ramp Location amp Stowage Where detachable be suitable for manual handling having suitable means to lift and manoeuvre the ramps and be of light weight The ramp shall have effective location when in use to ensure it is easily fitted to the vehicle and cannot

Initial Suitability Inspection Manual June 2010

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