XN000022-1996-02-07 — Page 38

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What is important is that Hong Kong Tramways has a comprehensive training programme that provides drivers with the requisite skills covering road use, the handling of tram equipment, passenger safety, procedures in dealing with emergencies, and practical on-the-road training. At the end of the course, trainees are required to pass a written and a driving test.

In view of the recent incidents, the Company has decided to appoint a consultant to review and advise on its recruitment procedures and training programme. The Administration welcomes this initiative. The findings should be available in about three months' time and on which the Administration will be consulted. Meanwhile, the Company will provide a dummy tram in the depot for practical fire drill and emergency practice during the initial and annual re-certification training of tram drivers.

Hong Kong Tramways is responsible for the maintenance and inspection of its tram cars. General functional checks are carried out on all tram cars daily before they leave the depot and also on their return. The Company has a well established preventive maintenance programme under which various components of tram cars are regularly checked, replaced and maintained.

In addition to this programme, engineers from the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department carry out inspections on tram cars before giving approval for any modification or improvement works proposed by the Company. They also carry out investigations into tram accidents, making recommendations for necessary remedial action and monitoring their implementation. Although this system has worked satisfactorily, the Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services will in conjunction with the Company, review the existing maintenance programme to determine whether Tramway Regulations need to be strengthened to prescribe operational and maintenance requirements to further enhance safety.

End