Consultation on changes to rules for passenger service vehicles underway

The NZ Transport Agency is calling for submissions are invited on proposed changes to Land Transport Rule: Passenger Service Vehicles 1999.

Harry Wilson, Acting Group Manager of the NZTA’s Access and Use Group said the existing Rule, which has been in place for more than a decade, is due to be updated.

“Although it has had several minor amendments over the last decade, the Rule needs modernising to reflect changes in technology and current practices,” said Mr Wilson.

“The proposed changes aim to improve safety for users of passenger transport services, and clarify the existing Rule to reduce ambiguity and assist compliance.”

Proposals include clarifying requirements for power-operated doors, improving safety for passengers around rear doors, and changes relating to emergency exit provisions.

It is also proposed to require certain passenger service vehicles to be equipped with wheelchair restraints and to improve the storage security of fire extinguishers to ensure fire preparedness in an emergency..

The draft amendment Rule and an accompanying overview, are available from the consultation section of the NZTA’s website, or by phoning the NZTA’s contact centre on 0800 699 000.

Submissions close on Friday, 4 November 2011. Submissions will then be analysed and taken into account in redrafting the Rule for government consideration. Implementation is expected to be underway by mid next year subject to the final Rule being signed by the Minister of Transport.