School Bus Pre-trip Safety Checklist - Children

Comprehensive safety inspection focused on protecting student passengers and ensuring compliance with school transportation regulations.

STUDENT SAFETY PRIORITY

School buses transport our most precious cargo - children. This inspection is critical for student safety.

• Federal and state regulations require thorough pre-trip inspections

• Any safety defect must be corrected before transporting students

• Special attention to child-specific safety systems and visibility

• Estimated completion time: 15-20 minutes

• Required certification for school bus drivers

Driver Certification & Documentation

  • Verify driver has valid CDL with school bus endorsement and passenger endorsement.
  • Confirm current DOT medical certification and state-required physical.
  • Check that background check and fingerprint clearances are current.
  • Record driver name, license number, and bus assignment number.
  • Note inspection date, time, weather conditions, and route assignment.
  • Review previous inspection reports and any outstanding defects.
  • Verify driver training certifications for school bus operation are current.

Student Safety Lighting & Warning Systems

  • Test amber warning lights - should activate 100-300 feet before stop.
  • Check red flashing lights operate properly on front and rear.
  • Verify stop arm extends fully and retracts completely.
  • Test stop arm lights illuminate when extended.
  • Check strobe lights (if equipped) flash at proper intervals.
  • Verify backup alarm operates when in reverse gear.
  • Test hazard flashers and ensure all lights flash simultaneously.
  • Check that stop arm and warning lights are clearly visible and clean.
Critical for Child Safety: Warning light system failure puts children at extreme risk during loading/unloading. Any malfunction requires immediate repair before operation.

Student Seating & Interior Safety

  • Inspect all student seats for proper attachment and cushion condition.
  • Check seat spacing meets minimum requirements (24" from back to back).
  • Verify all handholds and grab rails are secure and not damaged.
  • Test driver's interlock system prevents movement with door open.
  • Check aisle width is clear and meets accessibility requirements.
  • Inspect floor covering for tears, holes, or trip hazards.
  • Verify interior lighting illuminates all seating areas adequately.
  • Check that windows open and close properly for emergency egress.
  • Test public address system for clear communication with students.

Emergency Evacuation Equipment

  • Verify emergency exit door opens easily from inside and outside.
  • Check rear emergency door alarm sounds when opened.
  • Test emergency roof hatches open fully and latch securely.
  • Inspect emergency exit markings are visible and reflective.
  • Check that emergency evacuation instructions are posted and legible.
  • Verify fire extinguisher is charged, accessible, and properly mounted.
  • Test emergency window releases and ensure windows can be removed.
  • Check first aid kit is complete, current, and easily accessible.
  • Verify emergency contact information and route cards are current.
Emergency Evacuation Requirements

School buses must be able to evacuate all passengers within 3 minutes. All emergency equipment must be functional and accessible.

Mirrors & Child Detection Systems

  • Adjust and clean all exterior mirrors for maximum student visibility.
  • Check convex mirrors show entire front bumper and student danger zone.
  • Verify crossover mirrors show student crossing area in front of bus.
  • Test interior mirror provides clear view of all student seating.
  • Check child detection system operation (if equipped).
  • Verify backup camera and monitor function properly (if equipped).
  • Ensure no mirror is cracked, loose, or provides distorted view.
  • Check that mirror brackets are secure and properly adjusted.

Student Loading Door Systems

  • Test service door opens and closes smoothly without binding.
  • Check door seal prevents exhaust fumes from entering bus.
  • Verify door control system operates properly from driver position.
  • Test door interlock prevents vehicle movement when door is open.
  • Check handrails at door entrance are secure and not damaged.
  • Verify door steps are in good condition and have anti-slip surface.
  • Test door warning system alerts driver to open door.
  • Check door glass is not cracked and provides clear visibility.

Engine & Mechanical Safety Systems

  • Check engine oil level and condition - should be within normal range.
  • Inspect coolant level and look for leaks around radiator and hoses.
  • Verify all fluid levels are adequate (brake, steering, windshield washer).
  • Test parking brake holds bus securely on grade.
  • Check air pressure system maintains proper pressure (100+ PSI).
  • Test service brakes for proper pedal feel and stopping power.
  • Verify low air pressure warning activates at proper pressure.
  • Check exhaust system for leaks that could enter passenger area.
  • Test horn operation - should produce clear, loud sound.

Exterior Safety & Visibility

  • Inspect all exterior lights including headlights, tail lights, brake lights.
  • Check turn signals and hazard flashers operate properly.
  • Verify "SCHOOL BUS" lettering is clearly visible and not faded.
  • Check reflective tape and markings are intact and visible.
  • Inspect windshield and windows for cracks or damage.
  • Test windshield wipers and washers on all speed settings.
  • Check body panels for damage that could affect student safety.
  • Verify license plates are clean, visible, and properly mounted.
  • Inspect for any loose, hanging, or damaged exterior components.

Tires & Wheels Student Safety Check

  • Check tire pressure on all positions including spare tire.
  • Inspect tread depth - minimum 4/32" on front, 2/32" on rear axles.
  • Look for cuts, bulges, or cord showing that could cause blowout.
  • Verify all lug nuts are present, tight, and show no signs of looseness.
  • Check wheels for cracks, damage, or excessive rust/corrosion.
  • Inspect valve stems and caps for damage or air leaks.
  • Ensure no foreign objects are embedded in tire treads.
  • Verify proper dual wheel spacing and alignment.
Student Safety Priority: Tire failure while transporting children creates extreme danger. Any questionable tire condition requires immediate attention.

Communication & Safety Technology

  • Test two-way radio communication with dispatch/transportation office.
  • Verify GPS tracking system is operational (if equipped).
  • Check student tracking/ridership system functions properly.
  • Test onboard camera system recording capability (if equipped).
  • Verify cell phone or emergency communication device is available.
  • Check that route information and student lists are current.
  • Test any student behavior monitoring systems.
  • Verify parent notification systems are functional.

Special Needs & Accessibility Equipment

  • Test wheelchair lift operation and safety systems (if equipped).
  • Check wheelchair tie-down equipment and securement systems.
  • Verify accessibility ramps deploy and retract properly.
  • Inspect special needs seating and restraint systems.
  • Test communication systems for hearing-impaired students.
  • Check that child safety restraint systems are available as needed.
  • Verify any specialized medical equipment storage areas.
  • Test emergency evacuation procedures for special needs students.

Final Safety Verification & Documentation

  • Complete post-inspection engine startup and systems check.
  • Verify all gauges read within normal operating parameters.
  • Test all warning systems and indicator lights function properly.
  • Conduct brief test drive to check steering, braking, and handling.
  • Complete inspection documentation and driver certification.
  • Report any defects immediately to transportation supervisor.
  • Verify vehicle is safe for student transportation before route start.
  • Update vehicle inspection log and maintenance records.
  • Confirm emergency procedures and evacuation plan are understood.

Student Safety Zone & Loading Area

  • Check that danger zone around bus is clearly marked and visible.
  • Verify stop arm creates safe student crossing zone.
  • Test that all mirrors provide view of 10-foot danger zone around bus.
  • Check loading lights illuminate student boarding area adequately.
  • Verify backup systems prevent movement when students are in danger zone.
  • Inspect ground around bus for hazards or debris.
  • Check that bus positioning allows safe student loading/unloading.
  • Verify compliance with railroad crossing safety procedures.
Critical Safety Zone: Most student injuries occur in the 10-foot danger zone around the bus. All safety systems must function perfectly to protect children.
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