Trends


From LEDs to Seat Belts, Safety Goes a Long Way


T


he latest School Transportation News survey explored the topic of safety, including challenges with mobility on and off the school bus, the use of lighting systems, driver and aide child-checking


procedures, along with the use of restraint systems for students. Te survey was sent to more than 8,000 readers who indicated they are transportation directors, supervisors, superintendents and fleet managers, of which 391 responded as of April 14.


When asked, what challenges the trans- portation department faced when ensuring student mobility most responses included the securement of specialized equipment and wheelchair lift maintenance. “Visibility on those buses with LED’s has aided in the reduction of red light passes and visibility of our school buses when the lights are flashing. Te LED and flashing lights aide in a driver observing these warning lights in all conditions and from a greater distance,” said Adam Mayo, director of transportation for the Maine School Administra- tive District No. 75 in Maine. Te use of child restraint systems was reported as widely


used. Jeff Hutchings, manager of maintenance operations and transportation from the Huntington Beach Union School District in Calif., who oversees a total of 47 school buses said there are “three-point lap shoulder belts and two-point lap belts” in use. Hutchings also mentioned seat belts have reduced passenger seating, as well as the incremental cost of new bus purchases has considerably increased. Child-checking actions were also said to be in use by several


readers who stated physical inspections for buses are still popular for those who lack alarm technology. ●


Are any of your school buses equipped with seat belts?


69% 31%


16 School Transportation News • MAY 2017


YES NO


CELEBRATING25YEARS


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