Important note: Please read this information prior to attending the Driving and Mobility Centre.
This leaflet has been compiled to advise you of our Covid-19 safety procedure following the best practice guidelines based upon the Public Health England Guidance which is used by the NHS. We as an organisation have a duty of care towards our clients and to protect our staff under the Health & Safety at Work Act.
This document will be regularly reviewed and adjusted in line with Government advice.
Overall, the basic precept followed throughout is to minimise contact between staff and client wherever possible, and to practice careful social distancing between all. The guidelines are based upon the promotion of good hygiene practices, and the maximisation of the use of technology to replace personal contact.
The Driving and Mobility Centre will utilize and make available recommended PPE as follows:
- Disposable masks (type IIR as minimum)
- Disposable car seat covers
- Safety glasses or goggles which are comfortable – or ordinary glasses
- Hand foaming sanitizer (and dispensers) and detergent wipes
- Non-contact thermometer, or with disposable ear cups (basic)
This equipment and this procedure is primarily designed with Fitness-to-Drive assessments in mind. Vehicle adaptation assessments and other assessments where increased shared use of equipment is experienced will require further use of additional PPE which may include:
- Disposable gloves
- Aprons
- Increased frequency of hand sanitization
Clients are advised that non-attendance due to an inability to wear PPE, such as a disposable mask, will be taken into account by commissioning agencies such as DVLA and that appointments will be rescheduled to accommodate this requirement. In addition it is recommended that anyone who has a health, disability or age related reason not to wear one should advise the Centre in advance so that consideration can be given to an exemption or a later scheduling of their assessment appointment.
Procedure:
- On arrival at the Driving and Mobility Centre you will be met in the car park by a member of assessment staff and you will be required to have your temperature taken prior to entering the building. If you are found to have an above normal temperature you will be advised to return home and a new appointment letter will be sent to you.
This will be performed using a non -invasive laser device.
- There will be an opportunity to use the toilet facilities in the main building on the way to our department.
- You will be escorted to our centre and asked to use the hand sanitiser provided at the door prior to entry. Staff will also be required to use the hand sanitiser prior to entry.
- There will be a one-way system in the building and social distancing will need to be maintained by all as much as possible during the assessment process.
- Social distancing will not be possible during the on-road part of the assessment therefore appropriate measures will be taken to minimise any risk to both clients and staff members.
- Please be aware that all members of assessment staff will have received at least one dose of Covid-19 vaccine, will be frequently tested using rapid lateral flow home testing kits and will also be required to take their temperatures on arrival at work each day.
All vehicles will be carefully wiped down prior to any in-car assessments and the same procedure will be carried out once your assessment has been completed. Disposable seat covers will be used for each client.
- Following the on-road part of the assessment there will be a very brief feedback opportunity once back at the centre. You will receive a report in the post with a summary breakdown of the on-road assessment.
- Prior to leaving the centre you will be required to use the hand sanitiser again.
- A member of staff will accompany you back to the main car park at the end of the assessment.
*If you develop symptoms before your assessment or during the week following your assessment, please let the Centre know as soon as possible.