More protection being trialled

TAXI official Paul Smith says the industry is introducing ways of helping improve driver safety.
The Dandenong Taxi manager said cabs were fitted with an array of devices including GPS tracking systems, security cameras and panic alarms to help protect drivers.
But even with all this technology, drivers are still vulnerable, Mr Smith said.
“The job is not an easy one,” he said.
“Most people are law-abiding citizens who pay their fare but you get some people who are intoxicated or disrespectful and make it hard for the drivers.”
Mr Smith said one cab in the Dandenong Taxi fleet had recently taken part in a trial of a protective screening placed around the driver.
He said the trial had both positive and negative outcomes for the driver and passenger.
“The driver still needs to be able to communicate with the passenger. It is also a comfort thing for the driver.”