VEHICLE INSPECTION

VEHICLE INSPECTION

Before driving a bus make sure it is mechanically safe.

Passenger safety starts with a good vehicle safety inspection.

Buses have special passenger safety features. Check to see that these features work.

Emergency Exits

Check the emergency exits for

• ease of operation,
• correct markings and
• to ensure that any warning buzzers or devices properly work.

The Emergency Exit

” sign must be clearly visible.

If there is a red emergency door light, it must work.

Turn it on any time you use your outside lights.

Emergency exit doors must be secured when you operate the bus.

Bus Interior Always check the interior of the bus before driving to ensure passenger safety. Aisle and stairwells must always be clear.

The following parts of your bus must be in safe working conditions.

• Aisle
• Step Wells
• Floor Covering
• Interior Lights
• Passenger Signaling Devices (if equipped)
• Seats (All seats must be securely fastened to the bus.)
• Tires Recapped or regrooved tires may not be used on the front wheels of buses.

Emergency Equipment Buses should carry:

• a functional, fully charged fire extinguisher,
• emergency reflectors, and
• spare electrical fuses unless the bus is equipped with circuit breakers.

If you have a first aid kit, check to see that it has the proper contents.

Seat Belts

The drivers seat should have a seat belt. Ensure it works properly and remember to wear it. The law requires you to wear your seat belts.

Mirrors

Bus drivers must depend on mirrors to watch their passengers and safely drive their bus. Make sure inside and outside mirrors are cleaned and properly adjusted.

Roof Hatches

You may lock some emergency roof hatches in a partly opened position for fresh air. Do not leave them open as a regular practice.

Keep in mind the higher clearance of the bus while driving with them open.

School Bus Warning Light Systems

If you drive a school bus, ensure that the traffic warning light systems work. All lights should operate in the correct order.

• Loading/Unloading
• Driving Techniques
• Passenger Management
• Emergency Situation

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