The Taxi Accessibility Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015

Boarding lifts and ramps

3.—(1) A regulated taxi shall be fitted with not less than one boarding lift or one boarding ramp, or shall carry not less than one portable ramp.

(2) Any boarding lifts fitted in accordance with sub-paragraph (1) shall comply with BS EN 1756-2.

(3) Any boarding ramp or portable ramp fitted or carried in accordance with sub-paragraph (1) shall comply with the following requirements—

(a) the ramp shall have a safe working load of not less than 300kg;

(b) the ramp shall have a surface of not less than 700mm in width;

(c) the ramp shall be free of sharp edges or other protrusions capable of causing injury;

(d) the ramp shall be in a serviceable condition;

(e) the ramp shall have around and abutting each of the edges of the ramp a band of colour of not less than 50mm in width which shall contrast with the remainder of the ramp surface;

(f) the ramp shall provide nearside or rear access to the vehicle for the wheelchair user;

(g) the ramp shall have a single continuous surface when deployed; and

(h) with the vehicle on a flat surface, in the normal condition for a wheelchair user to board or alight, and with the ramp extended and sitting on a kerb of 125mm in height measured vertically from and parallel to the ground, the surface of the ramp shall have a slope measured over the surface referred to in sub-paragraph (3)(b) of not more than 16° measured relative to the ground.

(4) Where a portable ramp is carried in a regulated taxi the ramp shall—

(a) be carried on the vehicle at all times and be in a serviceable condition;

(b) be fitted with an adequate device to ensure that the ramp does not slip or tilt when in use;

(c) be provided with a stowage position in a position where it is readily available for use; and

(d) be capable of being securely stowed in the stowing position so as to minimise the risk of injury to the passengers or the driver.