Health & Safety Risk Assessment – Private Hire Coach Operations (UK)
Company: Stevenage Travel Limited
Activity Assessed: Group travel by coach
Assessor: Emma Blatchly, Director.
Date of Assessment: 1st August 2026
Review Date: 1st August 2028
Locations: UK road network, pick-up points, service areas, event venues
Residual Risk: Low when all control measures are applied
Scope of Assessment
Passenger safety, driver safety, vehicle safety, roadside activity, and emergency situations associated with private hire coach operations.
Boarding and Disembarking
Hazards: Slips, trips, falls, uneven ground, moving traffic, poor lighting.
Risks: Minor to serious injury from falls or contact with passing vehicles.
Controls:
- Driver selects safe, legal stopping points with good visibility.
- Hazard lights used; passengers instructed not to approach until the coach is stationary.
- Steps, handrails and entrance lighting maintained in good condition.
- Driver supervises boarding and assists passengers with mobility needs.
- Clear communication with organisers regarding safe pick up/drop off locations.
Residual Risk: Low.
Movement Inside the Coach
Hazards: Standing or moving while in motion, unstable footing, alcohol-related imbalance.
Risks: Falls or impact injuries during braking or cornering.
Controls:
- Passengers instructed to remain seated while the coach is moving.
- Aisles kept clear of bags, coats and equipment.
- Toilet use discouraged while moving unless essential.
- For hires involving alcohol (e.g., weddings, parties), driver reinforces safety expectations before departure.
Residual Risk: Low.
Seatbelts and Passenger Behaviour
Hazards: Non-use of seatbelts, disruptive behaviour, alcohol-related behaviour, driver distraction.
Risks: Injury in sudden braking or collision; reduced driver concentration.
Controls:
- All seats fitted with fully functioning seatbelts.
- Mandatory seatbelt use communicated verbally and via signage.
- Driver empowered to stop the vehicle if behaviour compromises safety.
- Alcohol consumption monitored; excessive drinking not permitted on board.
- For sports teams or corporate groups, a nominated organiser supports behaviour management.
Residual Risk: Low.
Luggage, Equipment and Personal Items
Hazards: Falling luggage, heavy equipment, blocked aisles.
Risks: Head injuries, trip hazards, manual handling injuries.
Controls:
- Heavy items stored in external lockers; overhead racks used only for light items.
- Driver trained in safe manual handling techniques.
- Aisles and emergency exits kept clear at all times.
- Organisers advised to pre declare bulky or unusual items.
Residual Risk: Low.
Road Traffic Collision
Hazards: Other road users, weather, road conditions, mechanical failure.
Risks: Injury to passengers, driver and third parties.
Controls:
- Vehicles maintained to DVSA standards with documented safety inspections.
- Drivers hold valid PCV licence, CPC training and company induction.
- Tachograph compliance monitored to prevent fatigue.
- Defensive driving techniques emphasised in training.
- Seatbelt compliance enforced.
Residual Risk: Low.
Breakdown or Vehicle Defect
Hazards: Stranded passengers, roadside danger, exposure to weather, delays.
Risks: Injury from passing traffic, discomfort, anxiety.
Controls:
- Drivers trained in safe roadside positioning and passenger management.
- Passengers kept on board unless evacuation is essential.
- Breakdown assistance contracted with rapid response.
- Replacement vehicle dispatched promptly.
- Clear communication with organisers regarding delays or alternative arrangements.
Residual Risk: Low.
Emergency Evacuation
Hazards: Fire, smoke, collision, unsafe vehicle environment.
Risks: Panic, injury during evacuation, exposure to traffic.
Controls:
- Drivers trained in emergency procedures and use of extinguishers.
- Passengers moved to a safe location away from the carriageway.
- Emergency exits checked during pre departure walk round.
- Clear instructions given calmly and assertively.
Residual Risk: Low.
Medical Emergencies
Hazards: Passenger illness, pre-existing conditions, alcohol-related incidents.
Risks: Deterioration of condition, delayed treatment.
Controls:
- First-aid kit carried and checked regularly.
- Emergency services contacted immediately when required.
- Driver maintains professional distance and does not administer medication.
- Organisers responsible for known medical needs within their group.
Residual Risk: Low.
Weather Conditions
Hazards: Ice, snow, high winds, heat, reduced visibility.
Risks: Slips at stops, increased collision risk, passenger discomfort.
Controls:
- Journey planning adjusted for severe weather.
- Heating/air conditioning systems maintained for passenger comfort.
- Extra caution at stops; driver selects safe, well lit areas.
- Communication with organisers if delays or route changes are necessary.
Residual Risk: Low.
Driver Fatigue and Welfare
Hazards: Long driving hours, late-night hires, extended waiting times.
Risks: Reduced concentration, increased collision risk.
Controls:
- Full compliance with UK drivers’ hours and tachograph regulations.
- Adequate rest breaks scheduled into itineraries.
- Drivers encouraged to report fatigue concerns without penalty.
- Relief drivers provided for long duration hires.
Residual Risk: Low.
Public Interaction at Venues and Service Areas
Hazards: Busy car parks, intoxicated individuals, theft, lost passengers.
Risks: Safeguarding concerns, minor crime, delays.
Controls:
- Driver remains with vehicle where possible.
- Clear meeting points and timings communicated.
- Valuables kept secure; luggage compartments locked.
- Organisers responsible for ensuring all passengers return to the coach.
Residual Risk: Low.
Fire Risk
Hazards: Engine fire, electrical fault, smoking materials, flammable items.
Risks: Smoke inhalation, burns, evacuation injuries.
Controls:
- Fire extinguishers carried and inspected.
- Strict no smoking policy enforced.
- Regular electrical and mechanical inspections.
- Immediate evacuation if fire is suspected.
Residual Risk: Low.
Conclusion
With all control measures implemented, the overall risk associated with private hire coach operations is low. Strong driver training, robust vehicle maintenance, clear communication with organisers, and consistent passenger management ensure a safe and professional service delivered by Stevenage Travel Limited.
