W. Va. Code R. § 126-92-24
Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 50, December 13, 2024
Section 126-92-24 - School Bus Operator Inspection of School Bus24.1. Operators are required to make the appropriate inspection of the bus and complete specified duties prior to every assigned trip to ensure the safe transport of all passengers. The following is a list of minimum required inspections and duties and shall not be considered all-inclusive.24.2. For pre-trip inspections and duties. the operator shall: 24.2.a. check tires for proper inflation and condition.24.2.b. check wheels for loose hub bolts, wheel lugs, lube leaks, etc.24.2.c. check steering for proper functioning of all components.24.2.d. check radiator coolant, windshield washer fluid, power steering fluid, oil, and fuel.24.1.e. check alternator, fan, and power steering belts.24.1.f. check lighting system(s), windshield wiper/washer, and horn.24.1.g. check brakes, including warning light and buzzer.24.1.h. check all emergency exits.24.1.i. check first aid kit, fire extinguisher, communication system(s), and emergency traffic warning devices.24.1.j. check back-up alarm.24.1.k. check stop arm and crossing arm.24.1.l. check exhaust for leaks and securement.24.1.m. after each run, walk to the rear of the bus and check for students, objects left on bus, trash, and vandalism.24.1.n. sweep the floor, dust the seats, and remove all trash from seat frames/rails immediately following each assigned run.24.1.o. clean windshield, windows, mirrors, all light lenses, and identification lettering and wash outside as necessary. All mirrors shall meet FMVSS 111 specifications at all times. A mirror grid shall be supplied at a location(s) accessible to all bus operators to ensure FMVSS 111 specifications are maintained.24.1.p. keep stepwell and aisle clean and free of debris.24.1.q. remove markings found on walls/ceiling.24.1.r. keep loose objects, tire chains, wheel chair restraints, etc., off the floor in a secure location.24.1.s. keep glove compartment clean and well-organized.24.1.t. be sure that there are no aerosol cans inside the bus. Properly labeled spray bottles are to be stored out of sight.24.2. For an inspection during a trip, the operator shall: 24.2.a. watch gauges for signs of trouble.24.2.b. use his/her senses (look, listen, smell) to check for problems.24.2.c. stop at least every two hours or 100 miles (whichever comes first) and check: 24.2.c.1. tires, wheels, rims.24.3. For a post-trip inspection, the operator shall: 24.3.a. check the tires, brakes, lights, and emergency signaling devices.24.3.b. report any problems to the county director/supervisor or head/chief mechanic.24.3.c. conduct a walk-through inspection of the bus after the last delivery of the shift segment. Prior to departing the bus for any length of time, a walk-through inspection must be conducted. The purpose of the walk-through inspection is to check on and under the seats for sleeping or hiding students and to identify any items that may have been left aboard the bus. Warning flag systems and/or electronic means may be used. Written policies and procedures should be in place for post-trip and post-run segment checks. Operators having multiple runs of which there is a delay between each (e.g. 10-30 minutes) shall, at a minimum, conduct a walk-through inspection and an outside walk-around inspection of the bus. Curricular and extra-curricular trips shall require at a minimum an inside and outside inspection for damage or vandalism prior to departure from the site.24.3.d. Prepare a written verification of the operator's examination of the interior of the bus for students, loose items, and damage if the vehicle is not equipped with a child minder.24.4. For weekly duties, the operator shall: 24.4.a. mop the bus floor. At no time shall a water hose or power washer be used on the interior of the bus.24.4.b. clean interior upholstery with a damp cloth.24.4.c. wash the exterior of the bus.W. Va. Code R. § 126-92-24