Whether a passenger can enter the vehicle unassisted or requires a mobility device, it is important to follow the rules and procedures needed to make sure every passenger travels safely.
As people serving people, we have a shared responsibility to empower passengers with the freedom to move by offering safe and reliable transportation for everyone, including passengers using mobility devices. Serving passengers effectively requires us to:
- Be aware of the needs of passengers and check the manifest before trips
- Assist passengers on and off the vehicle as needed
- Confirm the passenger can hear you
Helping Passengers with Mobility Devices
When approaching the location for passenger pick-up, look around for possible hazards and make sure you have enough space to deploy the lift/ramp if needed. While assisting passengers on and off the vehicle, be sure to walk behind your passenger as they enter the vehicle and stand in front of them as they exit the vehicle.
When deploying the lift for passengers with mobility devices, keep Safety First! and remember:
- It is more safe to have passengers face away from the vehicle when using the lift
- Passengers can
- Pay attention to where the passengers’ feet are resting
Apply your knowledge of body mechanics learned in training when loading passengers on the lift:
- Pushing: use your legs and core to push passengers onto the ramp and go slow with smooth movements.
- Twisting: avoid twisting your spine and change direction using your feet.
- Kneeling: avoid bending at the waist and use a kneeling pad to prevent injury.
Follow local policies and procedures for assisting passengers with service animals to effectively handle disruptive behavior. This helps to prevent passenger accidents and reduce safety hazards for everyone. Safety First!
