OHS Awareness NSW Taxi Operators - NSW Taxi Industry

3. Reduce the risk of robbery
As a new Taxi Driver you will be handling quite large amounts of cash and need to be very
careful with this. Keep your cash out of sight. Only keep enough cash in your pouch for a
“float”.
During your shift:
Deposit large amounts of cash in an Automatic Teller Machine or leave it at home
when you are passing or having a meal break.
Never have large amounts of cash visible to the passenger in the taxi. When giving
change only use a small float of cash. Keep larger amounts of cash securely
concealed.
Be wary of passengers who show an interest in your cash position by asking
seemingly innocent questions e.g. “Have you had a good day?” or “Can you change
a $100 note?” These questions may be a way of determining how much cash you
might be carrying. Play poor and say something like: “It’s been really slow tonight”.
Or I’ve only just come on and you’re my first passenger”.
Always settle your fare inside the taxi, do not allow the passenger to pay at the
driver’s window. If you do this they may snatch your cash and run away more
easily.
4. Reduce the risk of dangerous locations
When you have identified potentially dangerous locations in your service area you should
exercise care and caution and be alert when picking up or setting down passengers in
these locations. Whenever possible try to position the taxi in a well lit area and be
particularly cautious in isolated areas. If under threat drive away from the dangerous
situation with door open and close it later being careful not to cause an accident.
Remember:
Beware of passengers who give you vague directions.
Avoid laneways and dead end streets.
Avoid poorly lit areas
Never follow a passenger into a building
5. Reduce the risk of your own attitude
Handle argumentative and hostile passengers carefully. Avoid getting into heated debate
or confrontations with such passengers. As a general rule it is better to agree with them
and remain calm and relaxed. One technique to calm people down is to speak more
quietly and slowly. Don't raise your voice and don't speak rapidly.
Never chase after passengers who do a “runner”, the risk of attack is not worth the money!
Use of fitted safety equipment for taxis
OHS Awareness for NSW Taxi Operators: Information Guide
NSW Taxi Industry Association Page 50