The plans include improving vehicle interiors that minimise slips, trips and falls, which are one of the leading causes of injury
Interior design, safety technology, focus on driver well-being, and increased accessibility are some of the things Transport for London (TfL) will improve on London’s buses to make them safer. The changes should be in place by 2033 and are part of the second phase of safety upgrades on this part of the transport network.
The plans include improving vehicle interiors that minimise slips, trips and falls, which are one of the leading causes of injury. This will be achieved by including lighting, clearer safety messaging and using tip seats (which automatically folds upright when not in use).
It will also be more accessible by including better communication mediums between wheelchair users and drivers, such as better audio for ramp deployment. A new ‘Moving-Off Information System’ will be introduced and this will stop the bus from pulling out if a pedestrian or cyclist is immediately in front of the bus.
The Advanced Emergency Braking system will also see improvements when it comes to turning, as well as new acceleration suppression technology to help stop drivers accidentally pressing too hard on the accelerator. The latest technology will also provide visual, audio and touch alerts when fatigue or distraction is detected following trials across 400 buses. Drivers will also enjoy upgraded cabs.
Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan said: “London’s bus network is one of the safest in the world, and I’m proud that we are making real progress in eliminating death and serious injury from the network. But we must go further and faster to eliminate this heartbreak across the capital.
“This new world-leading safety standard is an important part of our work towards achieving Vision Zero across the bus network. It will help protect passengers, the bus drivers who keep London moving, as well as other road users, while supporting innovation that can prevent collisions and save lives.
“I’d like to thank partners, manufacturers and operators for their help in developing this standard, which is vital to building a safer, fairer, better London for everyone.”
Summary of the changes
- Bus interiors will be improved with better lighting, clearer safety messaging and mandatory tip seats from 2030.
- Accessibility will be enhanced through improved communication between wheelchair users and drivers, including better ramp deployment audio.
- A new Moving-Off Information System will prevent buses from moving off when a pedestrian or cyclist is directly in front.
- Advanced Emergency Braking will be extended to cover turning manoeuvres.
- Acceleration suppression technology will help prevent unintended harsh acceleration.
- New driver monitoring systems will provide visual, audio and tactile alerts for fatigue and distraction.
- Fatigue and distraction alerts will activate from 5 kph, exceeding national standards.
- Driver fatigue and distraction monitoring and reporting will be strengthened.
- Driver cabs will be redesigned to improve comfort, inclusivity, security and ergonomics.
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