§ Mr. PicklesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what tests(a) train drivers and (b) drivers of public service vehicles are required to take to determine their ability to distinguish between colours; and how often they are required to take them. [101167]
§ Mr. HillTrain drivers are required to pass a medical which includes a test for colour blindness, using the Ishihara Plates Test. Train drivers are also required to meet certain visual acuity requirements. The period between medical assessments is determined by the age of the train drivers; those aged less than 56 are medically assessed every five years, those aged 56 to 62 every two years, and train drivers over 62 every 12 months.
Drivers of passenger carrying vehicles (PCV's) are not tested specifically for colour blindness but do need to meet certain visual acuity requirements.