Uber unveils new security measures in wake of UK safety concerns and TfL ban

Uber says it will be more 'proactive' when reporting serious incidents to the police

Safety-standard for those that use and work for Uber drivers have been a source of fierce debate since the group started expanding rapidly in Britain (EPA)

Uber has announced the introduction of yet more safety measures for drivers and passengers across the UK, as it continues its quest to convince authorities to reinstate its operating licence across London.

The San Francisco-based ride sharing service on Friday said that it was launching a 24/7 telephone support service, accessible to both customers and drivers, to report issues around incorrect cancellation fees and other disputes.

It also said that it was adopting a more “proactive” approach when it comes to reporting serious incidents to the police, that it will start providing riders with the licensing authority and private hire licence number of their driver, and that it will add a feature to the app allowing drivers – as well as customers – to share their whereabouts with a friend or loved one when they’re out on the road.

“With millions of trips across the UK booked through our app each week, the safety of riders and drivers using Uber is a top priority,” said Tom Elvidge, general manager of Uber in the UK.

“Over the last few years we’ve led the way with pioneering technology which enhances safety like GPS tracking of every trip and our two-way rating system. But we recognise we can use our technology to go even further in setting a higher standard for private hire and other transport options,” he added.

“After listening to feedback from drivers, riders, local regulators and the police we’re introducing a number of new features and changes to enhance driver and passenger safety. We’re determined to change the way we do business, so we’ll carry on listening and plan to make other improvements over the coming months,” Mr Elvidge said.

Safety standards for those that use and work for Uber drivers have been a source of fierce debate since the group started expanding rapidly in Britain, but especially since Transport for London last year announced that it was revoking the Uber’s licence to operate in the capital in its current form. London is one of Uber’s most important overseas markets.

Earlier this month the firm unveiled the launch of a driver feedback programme across the UK, responding to calls for greater rights and protections for workers in the gig economy. It said that through the programme it would be held more “accountable”.

Also on Friday, Uber said that it was backing the Licensing of Taxis and PHVs (private hire vehicle) Bill currently being proposed by Daniel Zeichner MP. The bill aims to make it easier for licensing authorities to access background information about drivers seeking a licence in their areas, and about licence revocations and refusals.

Finally, Uber also said that it has also completed the rollout of a “driver hours feature” across the UK. The feature ensures that drivers go offline for at least six consecutive hours after 10 hours working, including driving to and from pickups.

“While drivers only spend an average of 30 hours a week logged into our app, we want to do our part to ensure they don’t drive tired,” Uber said. “We believe this is an industry first and are not aware of any other private hire operator in the UK that has introduced such a limit,” the group said.