ARC
7591C
EDUCA
TION
DEP
AR
TMENT
[281]
Notice
of
Intended
Action
Pr
oposing
rulemaking
r
elated
to
school
buses
and
pr
oviding
an
opportunity
for
public
comment
The
State
Board
of
Education
hereby
proposes
to
rescind
Chapter
44,
“School
Buses,”
Iowa
Administrative
Code,
and
to
adopt
a
new
chapter
with
the
same
title.
Legal
Authority
for
Rulemaking
This
rulemaking
is
proposed
under
the
authority
provided
in
Iowa
Code
section
285.8.
State
or
Federal
Law
Implemented
This
rulemaking
implements,
in
whole
or
in
part,
Iowa
Code
chapter
285.
Purpose
and
Summary
This
rulemaking
is
proposed
pursuant
to
Executive
Order
10
review
.
The
Department
of
Education
proposes
removing
rule
language
that
recites
statutory
text,
removing
restrictive
terms
that
do
not
contribute
to
health
and
safety
,
and
removing
obsolete
or
unnecessary
requirements.
The
Department
proposes
adding
rule
language
specific
to
buses
with
alternate
fuel
sources,
such
as
electric
buses
(proposed
subrule
44.3(25)).
Even
with
this
additional
language,
the
Department’
s
proposal
reduces
the
regulatory
burden
in
this
chapter
.
In
reviewing
this
chapter
,
the
Department
consulted
with
a
broad
group
of
stakeholders,
including
public
safety
of
ficials,
school
leaders,
school
transportation
directors,
mechanics,
and
dealers.
Fiscal
Impact
This
rulemaking
has
no
fiscal
impact
to
the
State
of
Iowa.
Jobs
Impact
After
analysis
and
review
of
this
rulemaking,
no
impact
on
jobs
has
been
found.
W
aivers
Any
person
who
believes
that
the
application
of
the
discretionary
provisions
of
this
rulemaking
would
result
in
hardship
or
injustice
to
that
person
may
petition
the
State
Board
for
a
waiver
of
the
discretionary
provisions,
if
any
,
pursuant
to
281—Chapter
4.
Public
Comment
Any
interested
person
may
submit
written
or
oral
comments
concerning
this
proposed
rulemaking.
W
ritten
or
oral
comments
in
response
to
this
rulemaking
must
be
received
by
the
Department
no
later
than
4:30
p.m.
on
February
27,
2024.
Comments
should
be
directed
to:
Thomas
A.
Mayes
Department
of
Education
Grimes
State
Of
fice
Building,
Second
Floor
400
East
14th
Street
Des
Moines,
Iowa
50319-0146
Phone:
515.281.8661
Email:
thomas.mayes@iowa.gov
1
Public
Hearing
Public
hearings
at
which
persons
may
present
their
views
orally
or
in
writing
will
be
held
as
follows:
February
27,
2024
1
1:30
a.m.
to
12
noon
Room
B100
Grimes
State
Of
fice
Building
Des
Moines,
Iowa
February
27,
2024
3:30
to
4
p.m.
Room
B50
Grimes
State
Of
fice
Building
Des
Moines,
Iowa
Persons
who
wish
to
make
oral
comments
at
a
public
hearing
may
be
asked
to
state
their
names
for
the
record
and
to
confine
their
remarks
to
the
subject
of
this
proposed
rulemaking.
Any
persons
who
intend
to
attend
a
public
hearing
and
have
special
requirements,
such
as
those
related
to
hearing
or
mobility
impairments,
should
contact
the
Department
and
advise
of
specific
needs
by
calling
515.281.5295.
Review
by
Administrative
Rules
Review
Committee
The
Administrative
Rules
Review
Committee,
a
bipartisan
legislative
committee
which
oversees
rulemaking
by
executive
branch
agencies,
may
,
on
its
own
motion
or
on
written
request
by
any
individual
or
group,
review
this
rulemaking
at
its
regular
monthly
meeting
or
at
a
special
meeting.
The
Committee’
s
meetings
are
open
to
the
public,
and
interested
persons
may
be
heard
as
provided
in
Iowa
Code
section
17A.8(6).
The
following
rulemaking
action
is
proposed:
I
TEM
1
.
Rescind
281—Chapter
44
and
adopt
the
following
new
chapter
in
lieu
thereof:
CHAPTER
44
SCHOOL
BUSES
281—44.
1
(285)
Requir
ements
for
manufactur
ers.
In
order
to
protect
both
the
boards
of
education
and
manufacturers
of
school
transportation
vehicles
and
equipment
from
misunderstanding
and
confusion,
all
manufacturers
shall
provide
equipment
meeting
all
Iowa
vehicle
construction
requirements
described
in
this
chapter
as
well
as
all
applicable
federal
motor
vehicle
safety
standards
(FMVSS)
that
are
in
ef
fect
on
February
7,
2024,
which
include
the
following:
101—Control
location,
identification,
and
illumination.
102—T
ransmission
shift
lever
sequence,
starter
interlock,
and
transmission
braking
ef
fect.
103—W
indshield
defrosting
and
defogging
systems.
104—W
indshield
wiping
and
washing
systems.
105—Hydraulic
braking
systems.
106—Brake
hoses.
107—Reflecting
surfaces.
108—Lamps,
reflective
devices,
and
associated
equipment.
109—New
pneumatic
tires.
1
10—T
ire
selection
and
rims.
1
1
1—Rearview
mirrors.
1
13—Hood
latch
systems.
1
16—Motor
vehicle
brake
fluids.
1
19—New
pneumatic
tires
for
vehicles
other
than
passenger
cars.
120—T
ire
selection
and
rims
for
motor
vehicles
other
than
passenger
cars.
121—Air
brake
systems.
124—Accelerator
control
systems.
131—School
bus
pedestrian
safety
devices.
2
205—Glazing
materials.
206—Door
locks
and
door
retention
components.
207—Seating
systems.
208—Occupant
crash
protection.
209—Seat
belt
assemblies.
210—Seat
belt
assembly
anchorages.
217—Bus
window
retention
and
release.
219—W
indshield
zone
intrusion
for
vehicles
with
a
GVWR
of
10,000
pounds
or
less.
220—School
bus
rollover
protection.
221—School
bus
body
joint
strength.
222—School
bus
passenger
seating
and
crash
protection.
301—Fuel
system
integrity
.
302—Flammability
of
interior
materials.
303—Fuel
system
integrity
of
compressed
natural
gas
vehicles.
304—Compressed
natural
gas
fuel
container
integrity
.
281—44.
2
(285)
School
bus—type
classifications.
A
bus
owned,
leased,
contracted
to
or
operated
by
a
school
or
school
district
and
regularly
used
to
transport
students
to
and
from
school
or
school-related
activities,
but
not
including
a
charter
bus
or
transit
bus,
meets
all
applicable
FMVSS,
and
is
readily
identified
by
alternately
flashing
lights,
National
School
Bus
Glossy
Y
ellow
(NSBY)
paint,
and
the
legend
“School
Bus.”
Schools
and
school
districts
in
Iowa
are
not
allowed
to
own
or
lease
motor
coaches
but
may
charter
them
for
activities.
44.2
(1)
T
ype
A.
A
T
ype
A
school
bus
is
a
conversion
or
bus
constructed
utilizing
a
cutaway
front-section
vehicle
with
a
left
side
driver
’
s
door
.
This
definition
includes
two
classifications:
T
ype
A-1,
with
a
gross
vehicle
weight
rating
(GVWR)
of
14,500
pounds
or
less;
and
T
ype
A-2,
with
a
GVWR
greater
than
14,500
and
less
than
or
equal
to
21,500
pounds.
44.2
(2)
T
ype
B.
A
T
ype
B
school
bus
is
constructed
utilizing
a
stripped
chassis.
The
entrance
door
is
behind
the
front
wheels.
This
definition
includes
two
classifications:
T
ype
B-1,
with
a
GVWR
of
10,000
pounds
or
less;
and
T
ype
B-2,
with
a
GVWR
greater
than
10,000
pounds.
44.2
(3)
T
ype
C.
A
T
ype
C
school
bus,
also
known
as
a
conventional
school
bus,
is
constructed
utilizing
a
chassis
with
a
hood
and
front
fender
assembly
.
The
entrance
door
is
behind
the
front
wheels.
This
type
of
school
bus
also
includes
the
cutaway
truck
chassis
or
truck
chassis
with
cab
with
or
without
a
left
side
door
and
with
a
GVWR
greater
than
21,500
pounds.
44.2
(4)
T
ype
D.
A
T
ype
D
school
bus,
also
known
as
a
rear
or
front
engine
transit-style
school
bus,
is
constructed
utilizing
a
stripped
chassis.
The
entrance
door
is
ahead
of
the
front
wheels.
44.2
(5)
T
ype
III.
T
ype
III
vehicles
are
not
regular
school
buses
but
nonetheless
are
used
to
transport
students
in
a
school-related
context
and
may
be
marked
as
a
“school
bus.”
T
o
qualify
as
a
T
ype
III
vehicle,
the
vehicle
may
carry
a
maximum
of
12
or
fewer
people,
including
the
driver
,
and
weigh
10,000
pounds
or
less.
These
vehicles
will
be
subject
to
school
bus
inspections
per
Iowa
Code
and
rule.
44.2
(6)
Specially
equipped.
A
specially
equipped
school
bus
is
a
school
bus
designed,
equipped,
or
modified
to
accommodate
students
with
special
needs.
44.2
(7)
Multifunction
school
activity
bus
(MFSAB).
A
multifunction
school
activity
bus
is
a
school
bus
whose
purposes
do
not
include
transporting
students
to
and
from
home
or
school
bus
stops
as
defined
in
49
CFR
571.3.
MFSABs
meet
all
FMVSS
for
school
buses
except
the
traf
fic
control
requirements
(alternately
flashing
signal
and
stop
arm).
These
vehicles
will
be
subject
to
school
bus
inspections
per
Iowa
Code
and
rule.
281—44.
3
(285)
School
bus
body
and
chassis
specifications.
44.3
(1)
Aisle.
All
emer
gency
doors
shall
be
accessible
by
a
12-inch
minimum
aisle.
Aisles
are
to
be
unobstructed
at
all
times
by
any
type
of
barrier
,
seat,
wheelchair
,
tie-down,
or
other
object(s),
with
the
exception
of
a
flip
seat
that
is
installed
and
occupied
at
a
side
emer
gency
door
position.
The
track
of
3
a
track-seating
system
is
exempt
from
this
subrule.
A
flip
seat
in
the
unoccupied
(up)
position
is
not
to
obstruct
the
12-inch
minimum
aisle
to
any
side
emer
gency
door
.
44.3
(2)
Axles.
The
front
and
rear
axle
and
suspension
systems
are
to
have
gross
axle
weight
rating
(GA
WR)
at
ground
commensurate
with
the
respective
front
and
rear
weight
loads
that
will
be
imposed
by
the
bus.
44.3
(3)
Backup
warning
alarm.
An
automatic
audible
alarm
shall
be
installed
behind
the
rear
axle
on
every
school
bus/MFSAB
and
comply
with
the
published
Backup
Alarm
Standards
(SAE
J994B),
providing
a
minimum
of
1
12
dBA.
A
variable
volume
feature
is
not
allowed.
44.3
(4)
Body
sizes.
T
ype
A
vehicles
may
be
purchased
with
manufacturer
’
s
recommended
seating
capacities
when
the
chassis
is
manufactured
with
rear
dual
tires.
44.3
(5)
Brakes.
a.
Brakes,
all,
general
r
equir
ements.
(1)
All
buses
will
have
either
a
parking
pawl
in
the
transmission
or
a
parking
brake
interlock
that
requires
the
service
brake
to
be
applied
to
allow
release
of
the
parking
brake.
(2)
All
brake
systems
will
be
designed
to
permit
visual
inspection
of
brake
lining
wear
without
removal
of
any
chassis
component(s).
(3)
The
brake
lines,
booster
-assist
lines,
and
control
cables
will
be
protected
from
excessive
heat,
vibration
and
corrosion
and
installed
in
a
manner
that
prevents
chafing.
(4)
The
parking
brake
system
may
be
of
a
power
-assisted
design.
The
power
parking
brake
actuator
should
be
a
device
located
on
the
instrument
panel
within
reach
of
a
seated
driver
.
As
an
option,
the
parking
brake
may
be
set
by
placing
the
automatic
transmission
shift
control
mechanism
in
the
“park”
position.
(5)
Every
vehicle
is
to
be
equipped
with
a
signal
that
provides
a
warning
to
the
driver
when
a
failure
occurs
in
the
vehicle’
s
brake
system.
A
warning
signal
will
be
audible
and
visible
to
the
driver
.
A
T
ype
A
vehicle
under
10,000
lbs.
GVWR
may
have
a
visible
warning
signal
only
.
(6)
The
power
-operated
parking
brake
system
may
be
interlocked
to
the
engine
key
switch.
Once
the
parking
brake
has
been
set
and
the
ignition
switch
turned
to
the
“of
f”
position,
the
parking
brake
cannot
be
released
until
the
key
switch
is
turned
back
to
the
“on”
position.
b.
Air
brakes,
general
r
equir
ements.
(1)
The
air
pressure
supply
system
will
include
a
desiccant-type
air
dryer
installed
according
to
the
manufacturer
’
s
recommendations.
The
air
pressure
storage
tank
system
may
incorporate
an
automatic
drain
valve.
(2)
The
manufacturer
will
provide
an
accessory
outlet
for
other
air
-operated
systems
installed
in
or
on
the
bus.
This
outlet
is
to
include
a
pressure
protection
valve
to
prevent
loss
of
air
pressure
in
the
service
brake
reservoir
.
(3)
For
air
brake
systems,
an
air
pressure
gauge
capable
of
complying
with
commercial
driver
’
s
license
(CDL)
pre-trip
inspection
requirements
will
be
provided
in
the
instrument
panel.
(4)
Air
brake
systems
will
include
a
system
for
anticompounding
of
the
service
brakes
and
parking
brakes.
c.
Brakes,
all,
specific
r
equir
ements.
(1)
The
braking
system
shall
include
the
service
brake,
an
emer
gency
brake
that
is
part
of
the
service
brake
system
and
controlled
by
the
service
brake
pedal,
and
a
parking
brake
meeting
FMVSS
at
date
of
manufacture.
(2)
An
air
brake
system
is
required
on
every
chassis
meeting
one
or
more
of
the
following:
1.
Wheelbase
equal
to
or
greater
than
274
inches.
2.
Designed
seating
capacity
rating
greater
than
66
passengers.
Designed
seating
capacity
,
also
known
as
manufacturer
’
s
seating
capacity
,
is
the
actual
or
theoretical
passenger
capacity
of
the
vehicle
if
it
were
constructed
with
the
maximum
number
of
seating
positions.
(3)
An
air
brake
system
is
to
comply
with
the
following
system
and
component
designs:
1.
The
system
cannot
be
of
wedge
design.
2.
The
system
will
include
an
air
dryer
system
having
design
features
equal
to
or
exceeding
the
Bendix
W
estinghouse
Model
AD9.
The
system
is
to
be
self-pur
ging
and
capable
of
removing
oil,
dirt,
4
and
moisture.
The
dryer
system
will
also
be
equipped
with
a
heater
to
prevent
the
freezing
of
moisture
within
the
system.
All
plumbing
from
air
compressor
to
input
of
air
dryer
or
after
-cooler
will
provide
soft
flow
bends
not
producing
sumps
in
the
air
compressor
line
having
direct
entry
into
the
dryer
.
3.
A
system
of
automatic
adjustment
compensating
for
service
brake
wear
is
to
be
installed
at
all
wheel
positions.
4.
The
air
compressor
produces
a
minimum
output
of
12.0
cubic
feet
per
minute
(CFM).
(4)
V
ehicles
with
10,000
pounds
GVWR
or
less
will
be
equipped
with
a
hydraulic,
dual-braking
system
of
manufacturer
’
s
standard,
with
power
assist.
44.3
(6)
Bumper
,
fr
ont.
a.
All
school
buses
will
be
equipped
with
a
front
bumper
painted
glossy
black,
a
chrome
front
bumper
,
or
a
front
bumper
coated
with
a
black
corrosion-resistant
texturized
material.
b.
The
front
bumper
on
buses
of
T
ype
A-2
(with
GVWR
greater
than
14,500
pounds),
T
ype
B,
T
ype
C,
and
T
ype
D
is
to
be
equivalent
in
strength
and
durability
to
pressed
steel
channel
at
least
3/16
inches
thick
and
not
less
than
8
inches
wide
(high).
The
front
bumper
will
extend
beyond
the
forward-most
part
of
the
body
,
grille,
hood
and
fenders
and
extend
to
the
outer
edges
of
the
fenders
at
the
bumper
’
s
top
line.
T
ype
A
buses
having
a
GVWR
of
14,500
pounds
or
less
may
be
equipped
with
an
original
equipment
manufacturer
(OEM)-supplied
front
bumper
.
c.
The
front
bumper
,
except
breakaway
bumper
ends,
is
to
be
of
suf
ficient
strength
to
permit
pushing
a
vehicle
of
equal
gross
vehicle
weight
without
permanent
distortion
to
the
bumper
,
chassis
or
body
.
d.
The
bumper
will
be
designed
or
reinforced
so
that
it
will
not
deform
when
the
bus
is
lifted
by
a
chain
that
is
passed
under
the
bumper
(or
through
the
bumper
if
holes
are
provided
for
this
purpose)
and
attached
to
both
tow
hooks/eyes.
e.
T
ow
eyes
or
hooks
are
required
on
T
ype
B,
C,
and
D
buses
of
14,501
pounds
GVWR
or
greater
.
T
wo
tow
eyes
or
hooks
are
to
be
installed
by
the
bus
manufacturer
so
as
not
to
project
beyond
the
front
bumper
.
f.
An
optional
ener
gy-absorbing
front
bumper
may
be
used,
provided
its
design
incorporates
a
self-restoring,
ener
gy-absorbing
system
of
suf
ficient
strength
to:
(1)
Push
another
vehicle
of
similar
GVWR
without
permanent
distortion
to
the
bumper
,
chassis,
or
body;
and
(2)
W
ithstand
repeated
impacts
without
damage
to
the
bumper
,
chassis,
or
body
according
to
the
following
performance
standards:
1.
7.5
mph
fixed-barrier
impact
(FMVSS
cart
and
barrier
test).
2.
4.0
mph
corner
impact
at
30
degrees
(Part
581,
CFR
T
itle
49).
3.
20.0
mph
into
parked
passenger
car
(T
ype
B,
C,
and
D
buses
of
18,000
pounds
GVWR
or
more).
The
manufacturer
of
the
ener
gy-absorbing
bumper
system
is
to
provide
evidence
of
conformance
to
the
above
standards
from
an
approved
test
facility
capable
of
performing
the
above
FMVSS
tests.
44.3
(7)
Bumper
,
r
ear
.
a.
All
school
buses
are
to
be
equipped
with
a
rear
bumper
painted
glossy
black
or
coated
with
a
black
corrosion-resistant
texturized
material.
b.
The
rear
bumper
is
to
be
pressed
steel
channel
or
equivalent
material,
at
least
3/16
inches
thick
and
is
to
be
a
minimum
of
8
inches
wide
(high)
on
T
ype
A-2
vehicles
and
a
minimum
of
9½
inches
wide
(high)
on
T
ype
A-1,
B,
C
and
D
buses.
The
rear
bumper
will
be
of
suf
ficient
strength
to
permit
its
being
pushed
by
another
vehicle
without
permanent
distortion
to
the
bumper
,
body
,
or
chassis.
c.
The
rear
bumper
will
be
wrapped
around
the
back
corners
of
the
bus.
It
is
to
extend
forward
at
least
12
inches,
measured
from
the
rear
-most
point
of
the
body
at
the
floor
line
and
is
to
be
flush-mounted
to
the
body
side
or
protected
with
an
end
panel.
d.
The
rear
bumper
will
be
attached
to
the
chassis
frame
in
such
a
manner
that
the
bumper
may
be
easily
removed.
It
is
to
be
braced
so
as
to
resist
deformation
of
the
bumper
resulting
from
a
rear
or
side
impact
and
designed
so
as
to
discourage
the
hitching
of
rides.
e.
The
bumper
is
to
extend
at
least
1
inch
beyond
the
rear
-most
part
of
body
surface
measured
at
the
floor
line.
5
f.
Additions
or
alterations
to
the
rear
bumper
,
including
the
installation
of
trailer
hitches,
are
not
allowed.
g.
An
optional
ener
gy-absorbing
rear
bumper
may
be
used,
provided
a
self-restoring,
ener
gy-absorbing
bumper
system
attached
to
prevent
the
hitching
of
rides
is
of
suf
ficient
strength
to:
(1)
Permit
pushing
by
another
vehicle
without
permanent
distortion
to
the
bumper
,
chassis,
or
body;
and
(2)
W
ithstand
repeated
impacts
without
damage
to
the
bumper
,
chassis,
or
body
according
to
the
following
FMVSS
performance
standards:
1.
2.0
mph
fixed
barrier
impact
(FMVSS
cart
and
barrier
test).
2.
4.0
mph
corner
impact
at
30
degrees
(Part
581,
CFR
T
itle
49).
3.
5.0
mph
center
impact
(Part
581,
CFR
T
itle
49).
The
manufacturer
of
the
ener
gy-absorbing
system
will
provide
evidence
of
conformance
to
the
above
standards
from
an
approved
test
facility
capable
of
performing
the
above
FMVSS
tests.
44.3
(8)
Certification.
The
manufacturer(s)
will,
upon
request,
certify
to
the
department
of
education
that
the
manufacturer
’
s
product(s)
meets
Iowa
minimum
standards
on
items
not
covered
by
FMVSS
certification
provisions
of
49
CFR
Part
567.
44.3
(9)
Color
.
a.
Chassis
will
be
black.
Body
cowl,
hood,
and
fenders
will
be
National
School
Bus
Glossy
Y
ellow
.
The
flat
top
surface
of
the
hood
may
be
nonreflective
National
School
Bus
Glossy
Y
ellow
or
flat
black.
b.
Wheels
and
rims
will
be
gray
,
black,
or
National
School
Bus
Glossy
Y
ellow
.
Aluminum
wheels
are
also
allowed.
c.
The
grille
is
to
be
gray
,
black,
chrome,
or
National
School
Bus
Glossy
Y
ellow
.
d.
The
school
bus
body
will
be
painted
National
School
Bus
Glossy
Y
ellow
.
(See
color
standard,
Appendix
B,
National
School
T
ransportation
Specifications
and
Procedures
Manual
2015.)
e.
The
body
exterior
trim
will
be
glossy
black,
including
the
exterior
lettering,
numbering,
body
trim,
rub
rails,
lamp
hoods
(if
any),
and
emer
gency
door
arrow
.
This
may
also
include
the
entrance
door
and
window
sashes.
In
addition,
the
rear
bumper
may
be
covered
with
a
black
retroreflective
material
as
described
in
subrule
44.3(48)
.
When
the
bus
number
is
placed
on
the
front
or
rear
bumper
,
the
number
is
to
be
National
School
Bus
Glossy
Y
ellow
.
f.
As
an
option,
the
roof
of
the
bus
may
be
painted
white
extending
down
to
within
6
inches
above
the
drip
rails
on
the
sides
of
the
body
,
except
that
the
vertical
portion
of
the
front
and
rear
roof
caps
is
to
remain
National
School
Bus
Glossy
Y
ellow
.
g.
Commercial
advertising
is
forbidden
on
the
exterior
and
in
the
interior
of
all
school
buses.
44.3
(10)
Construction.
a.
The
school
bus
body
will
be
constructed
of
materials
certified
to
be
durable
under
normal
operating
conditions
and
meet
all
applicable
FMVSS
at
the
date
of
manufacture
as
certified
by
the
bus
body
manufacturer
.
b.
Construction
will
be
reasonably
dustproof
and
watertight.
c.
Body
joints
present
in
that
portion
of
the
T
ype
A
school
bus
body
furnished
exclusively
by
the
body
manufacturer
will
conform
to
the
performance
requirements
of
FMVSS
No.
221.
This
does
not
include
the
body
joints
created
when
body
components
are
attached
to
components
furnished
by
the
chassis
manufacturer
.
d.
A
flat
floor
system
featuring
no
wheel
wells
and
no
step-up
at
the
rear
of
the
passenger
compartment
may
be
used
in
accordance
with
the
following:
(1)
The
inside
height
of
the
body
remains
at
least
72
inches,
when
measured
in
accordance
with
subrule
44.3(39)
,
when
this
option
is
installed.
(2)
If
this
option
utilizes
a
raised
floor
that
is
stepped
up
behind
the
driver
’
s
area,
the
forward
edge
of
the
aisle
has
a
white
or
yellow
stripe
and
is
labeled
“Step
Up”
visible
to
passengers
upon
entering
the
aisle;
and
a
label
“Step
Down”
is
visible
to
passengers
as
they
exit
the
aisle.
Minimum
headroom
of
72
inches
is
maintained
at
all
times.
6
(3)
A
flat
floor
design
provides
for
the
additional
option
for
a
track-mounted
seating
system
using
button-type
(L
track)
and
a
wheelchair
securement
system
meeting
Iowa
specifications
but
mounting
into
the
track
of
the
track-seating
system.
Aisle
clearances
are
maintained
in
accordance
with
these
rules.
44.3
(1
1)
Cr
ossing
contr
ol
arms.
a.
T
ype
A,
B,
and
C
school
buses
are
to
be
equipped,
and
T
ype
D
buses
may
be
equipped,
with
a
crossing
control
arm
that
is
mounted
on
the
right
side
of
the
front
bumper
and
that
will
not
open
more
than
90
degrees.
When
opened,
the
crossing
control
arm
will
extend
in
a
line
parallel
to
the
body
side
and
aligned
with
the
right
front
wheel.
b.
All
components
of
the
crossing
control
arm
and
all
connections
are
weatherproofed.
c.
The
crossing
control
arm
is
constructed
of
noncorrodible
or
nonferrous
material
or
treated
in
accordance
with
the
body
sheet
metal
standard.
See
subrule
44.3(40)
.
d.
There
are
no
sharp
edges
or
projections
that
could
cause
hazard
or
injury
to
students.
e.
The
crossing
control
arm
extends
a
minimum
of
70
inches
from
the
front
bumper
when
in
the
extended
position.
This
measurement
is
to
be
taken
from
the
arm
assembly
attachment
point
on
the
bumper
.
However
,
the
crossing
control
arm
does
not
extend
past
the
ends
of
the
bumper
when
in
the
stowed
position.
f.
The
crossing
control
arm
extends
simultaneously
with
the
stop
arm(s)
by
means
of
the
stop
arm
controls.
g.
The
crossing
control
arm
system
is
designed
to
operate
in
extreme
weather
conditions,
including
freezing
rain,
snow
and
temperatures
below
0
degrees
Fahrenheit,
without
malfunctioning.
The
crossing
control
arm
itself
is
constructed
of
a
material
that
will
prevent
the
arm
from
prematurely
extending
or
from
failing
to
retract
due
to
sustained
wind
or
wind
gusts
of
up
to
40
miles
per
hour
.
h.
T
o
ensure
that
the
unit
mounts
flush
and
operates
properly
,
the
chassis
bumper
mounting
bracket
is
designed
for
the
specific
model
chassis
on
which
it
will
be
mounted.
i.
A
single,
cycle-interrupt
switch
with
automatic
reset
will
be
installed
in
the
driver
’
s
compartment
and
be
accessible
to
the
driver
from
the
driver
’
s
seat.
j.
The
assembly
may
include
a
device
attached
to
the
bumper
near
the
end
of
the
arm
to
automatically
retain
the
arm
while
in
the
stowed
position.
That
device
is
not
to
interfere
with
normal
operations
of
the
crossing
control
arm.
44.3
(12)
Daytime
running
lights
(DRL).
See
subrule
44.3(31)
.
44.3
(13)
Defr
osters.
a.
Defrosting
and
defogging
equipment
direct
a
suf
ficient
flow
of
heated
air
onto
the
interior
surfaces
of
the
windshield,
the
window
to
the
left
of
the
driver
,
and
the
glass
in
the
viewing
area
directly
to
the
right
of
the
driver
to
eliminate
frost,
fog
and
snow
.
b.
The
defrosting
system
conforms
to
SAE
J381.
c.
The
defroster
and
defogging
system
is
capable
of
furnishing
heated
outside
ambient
air;
however
,
the
part
of
the
system
furnishing
additional
air
to
the
windshield,
entrance
door
and
step
well
may
be
of
the
recirculating
air
type.
d.
Auxiliary
fans
are
required;
however
,
they
are
not
considered
defrosting
or
defogging
systems.
See
also
subrule
44.3(73)
.
e.
Portable
heaters
shall
not
be
used.
44.3
(14)
Doors
and
exits.
a.
Service
door
.
(1)
The
service
door
will
be
heavy-duty
power
-
or
manually
operated
under
the
control
of
the
driver
and
designed
to
af
ford
easy
release
and
prevent
accidental
opening.
When
a
hand
lever
is
used,
no
parts
come
together
to
shear
or
crush
fingers.
Manual
door
controls
do
not
need
more
than
25
pounds
of
force
to
operate
at
any
point
throughout
the
range
of
operation.
A
power
-operated
door
provides
for
manual
operation
in
case
of
power
failure.
In
all
instances,
the
power
-operated
door
control
is
to
be
located
in
the
steering
wheel
or
to
the
left
or
right
of
the
driver
.
(2)
The
primary
service
door
is
located
on
the
right
side
of
the
bus
opposite
the
driver
and
within
the
driver
’
s
direct
view
and
will
remain
closed
anytime
the
vehicle
is
in
motion.
7
(3)
The
service
door
has
a
minimum
horizontal
opening
of
24
inches
and
a
minimum
vertical
opening
of
68
inches.
(4)
The
entrance
door
is
a
split-type
door
that
opens
outward.
(5)
All
glass
panels
are
of
approved
safety
glass
as
defined
in
subrule
44.3(75)
.
The
bottom
of
each
lower
glass
panel
is
not
more
than
10
inches
from
the
top
surface
of
the
bottom
step.
The
top
of
each
upper
glass
panel
is
not
more
than
3
inches
from
the
top
of
the
door
.
(6)
V
ertical
closing
edges
on
split
or
folding
entrance
doors
are
equipped
with
flexible
material
to
protect
children’
s
fingers.
(7)
There
is
no
door
to
the
left
of
the
driver
on
T
ype
B,
C
or
D
vehicles.
All
T
ype
A
vehicles
may
be
equipped
with
the
chassis
manufacturer
’
s
standard
left
side
(driver
’
s
side)
door
.
(8)
All
doors
are
equipped
with
padding
at
the
top
edge
of
each
door
opening.
Padding
is
at
least
3
inches
wide
and
1
inch
thick
and
extends
horizontally
the
full
width
of
the
door
opening.
(9)
A
door
-locking
mechanism
may
be
installed
in
accordance
with
subrule
44.3(72)
.
(10)
On
power
-operated
service
doors,
the
emer
gency
release
valve,
switch
or
device
to
release
the
service
door
is
placed
above
the
service
door
,
to
the
right
side
of
the
driver
console,
or
to
the
left
or
right
of
the
service
door
and
be
clearly
labeled.
The
emer
gency
release
valve,
switch
or
device
will
work
in
the
absence
of
power
.
b.
Emer
gency
doors.
(1)
Emer
gency
door(s)
and
other
emer
gency
exits
comply
with
the
provisions
of
FMVSS
No.
217
and
any
provision
of
these
rules
that
exceed
FMVSS
No.
217.
(2)
The
exposed
area
of
the
upper
panel
of
emer
gency
doors
is
a
minimum
of
400
square
inches
of
approved
safety
glazing.
If
installed,
all
other
glass
panels
on
emer
gency
doors
are
of
approved
safety
glazing.
(3)
There
shall
be
no
steps
leading
to
an
emer
gency
door
.
(4)
The
emer
gency
door(s)
are
equipped
with
padding
at
the
top
edge
of
each
door
opening.
Padding
is
at
least
3
inches
wide
and
1
inch
thick
and
extends
the
full
width
of
the
door
opening.
(5)
There
is
to
be
no
obstruction
higher
than
¼
inch
across
the
bottom
of
any
emer
gency
door
opening.
Fasteners
used
within
the
emer
gency
exit
opening
are
free
of
sharp
edges
or
burrs.
c.
Emer
gency
exit
r
equir
ements.
(1)
Any
installed
emer
gency
exit
complies
with
the
design
and
performance
requirements
of
FMVSS
No.
217,
applicable
to
that
type
of
exit,
whether
or
not
that
exit
is
required
by
FMVSS
No.
217,
and
complies
with
any
of
the
requirements
of
these
rules
that
exceed
FMVSS
No.
217.
(2)
An
emer
gency
exit
may
include
either
an
emer
gency
door
or
emer
gency
exit-type
windows.
Where
emer
gency
exit-type
windows
are
used,
they
are
to
be
installed
in
pairs,
one
on
each
side
of
the
bus.
T
ype
A,
B,
C,
and
D
vehicles
will
be
equipped
with
a
total
number
of
emer
gency
exits
as
follows
for
the
designed
capacities
of
vehicles:
1.
0
to
42
passengers
=
1
emer
gency
exit
per
side
and
1
roof
hatch.
2.
43
to
78
passengers
=
2
emer
gency
exits
per
side
and
2
roof
hatches.
3.
79
to
90
passengers
=
3
emer
gency
exits
per
side
and
2
roof
hatches.
These
emer
gency
exits
are
in
addition
to
the
rear
emer
gency
door
or
rear
pushout
window/side
emer
gency
door
combination
required
by
FMVSS
No.
217.
Additional
emer
gency
exits
installed
to
meet
the
capacity-based
requirements
of
FMVSS
No.
217
may
be
included
to
comprise
the
total
number
of
exits
specified.
All
roof
hatches
are
to
have
design
features
as
specified
in
subrule
44.3(73)
.
(3)
Side
and
rear
emer
gency
doors
and
each
emer
gency
window
exit
are
equipped
with
an
audible
warning
device.
(4)
Roof
hatches
are
equipped
with
an
audible
warning
device
and
work
appropriately
without
the
wiring
becoming
disconnected
from
the
switch.
(5)
Rear
emer
gency
windows
on
T
ype
D
rear
-engine
buses
have
a
lifting-assistance
device
that
will
aid
in
lifting
and
holding
the
rear
emer
gency
window
open.
(6)
Side
emer
gency
windows
may
be
either
top-hinged
or
vertically
hinged
on
the
forward
side
of
the
window
.
No
side
emer
gency
exit
window
will
be
located
above
a
stop
sign.
8
(7)
On
the
inside
surface
of
each
school
bus,
located
directly
beneath
or
above
all
emer
gency
doors
and
windows,
is
to
be
a
“DO
NOT
BLOCK”
label
in
a
color
that
contrasts
with
the
background
of
the
label.
The
letters
on
this
label
are
at
least
1
inch
high.
44.3
(15)
Drive
shaft.
The
drive
shaft
is
be
protected
by
a
metal
guard
or
guards
around
the
circumference
of
the
drive
shaft
to
reduce
the
possibility
of
its
whipping
through
the
floor
or
dropping
to
the
ground
if
broken.
44.3
(16)
Driver
’
s
compartment.
a.
A
driver
’
s
document
compartment
or
pouch
is
provided.
The
document
compartment
or
pouch
measures
at
least
17
inches
×
12
inches
×
4
inches.
If
a
document
pouch,
rather
than
a
covered
compartment,
is
provided,
it
is
located
on
the
barrier
behind
the
driver
.
It
will
be
constructed
of
a
material
of
equal
durability
to
that
of
the
covering
on
the
barrier
and
have
a
lid
or
cover
with
a
latching
device
to
hold
the
cover
or
lid
closed.
b.
Mobile
data
terminals
are
allowed.
Programs
loaded
on
the
data
terminal
will
be
specific
to
school
bus
operations
such
as
passenger
accountability
,
routing,
navigation,
emer
gency
notification,
tracking,
messaging,
and
equipment
monitoring.
(1)
The
data
terminal
is
mounted
within
the
driver
’
s
compartment
in
a
location
that
allows
the
driver
to
see
the
data
terminal
display
screen
at
a
glance
but
does
not
obstruct
the
driver
’
s
view
in
any
direction
when
the
driver
is
seated
in
a
normal
driving
position.
This
would
include
impeding
the
view
of
the
road,
mirrors,
highway
signs,
signals,
other
instruments,
entrance
door
,
and
passengers.
The
data
terminal
display
screen
and
audio
turn-by-turn
instructions
may
remain
active
while
the
bus
is
in
motion.
(2)
Overhead
mounting
of
the
data
terminal
is
not
allowed.
The
device
will
not
impede
space
within
the
aisle
and
will
not
be
mounted
in
such
a
way
as
to
be
a
snagging
hazard
in
the
student
loading
area
of
the
service
door
.
(3)
The
data
terminal
is
securely
mounted
to
the
vehicle
when
in
use
in
such
a
way
as
to
minimize
sharp
edges.
The
device
may
be
removed
when
not
in
use.
(4)
The
data
terminal
is
not
to
be
connected
to
the
passenger
compartment
sound
system.
(5)
Distractive
manipulation
of
a
data
terminal
is
prohibited
while
the
school
bus
is
being
driven.
For
the
purposes
of
this
subparagraph,
“driven”
means
operating
a
school
bus,
with
the
motor
running,
including
while
temporarily
stationary
because
of
traf
fic,
a
traf
fic
control
device,
or
other
momentary
delays
such
as
picking
up
or
dischar
ging
students.
“Driven”
does
not
include
operating
a
school
bus,
with
or
without
the
motor
running,
when
the
school
bus
is
legally
stopped
or
parked
upon
the
highway
for
a
prolonged
period
of
time.
c.
Commercially
produced
pedal
blocks
or
OEM
adjustable
pedals
are
allowed.
44.3
(17)
Electrical
system.
a.
Battery
,
does
not
include
electric
powertrain
batteries.
(1)
The
storage
batteries
have
a
minimum
cold
cranking
capacity
rating
(cold
cranking
amps)
equal
to
the
cranking
current
required
for
30
seconds
at
0
degrees
Fahrenheit
and
a
minimum
reserve
capacity
rating
of
120
minutes
at
25
amps.
Higher
capacities
may
be
necessary
,
depending
upon
optional
equipment
and
local
environmental
conditions.
(2)
The
manufacturer
will
securely
attach
the
battery
on
a
slide-out
or
swing-out
tray
in
a
closed,
vented
compartment
in
the
body
skirt
or
chassis
frame
so
that
the
battery
is
accessible
for
convenient
servicing
from
the
outside.
When
in
the
stored
position,
the
tray
is
retained
by
a
securing
mechanism
capable
of
holding
the
tray
(with
battery[ies])
in
position.
The
battery
compartment
door
or
cover
,
if
separate
from
the
tray
,
is
hinged
at
the
front
or
top.
It
is
secured
by
a
positive
operated
latching
system
or
other
type
fastener
.
The
door
may
be
an
integral
part
of
the
battery
slide
tray
.
The
door
or
cover
will
fit
tightly
to
the
body
and
not
present
sharp
edges
or
snagging
points.
Battery
cables
meet
Society
of
Automotive
Engineers
(SAE)
requirements.
Battery
cables
are
of
suf
ficient
length
to
allow
the
battery
tray
to
fully
extend.
Any
chassis
frame-mounted
batteries
will
be
relocated
to
a
battery
compartment
on
T
ype
A
buses.
(3)
All
batteries
are
to
be
secured
in
a
sliding
tray
except
that
on
van
conversion
or
cutaway
front-section
chassis,
batteries
may
be
secured
in
accordance
with
the
manufacturer
’
s
standard
9
configuration.
The
battery
cable
provided
with
the
chassis
is
of
suf
ficient
length
to
allow
some
slack
and
of
suf
ficient
gauge
to
carry
the
required
amperage.
(4)
The
top
surface
area
of
the
inside
of
the
battery
compartment
(the
area
likely
to
come
into
contact
with
battery
electrical
terminals
as
the
result
of
a
blow
to,
and
upward
collapse
of,
the
bottom
of
the
battery
box
in
the
event
of
an
accident
or
other
event)
is
covered
with
a
rubber
matting
or
other
impact-resistant
nonconductive
material.
The
matting
is
a
minimum
of
⅛
inch
thick
and
covers
the
entire
top
inside
surface
of
the
battery
box.
The
matting
is
securely
installed
to
maintain
its
position
at
all
times.
(5)
Buses
may
be
equipped
with
a
battery
shut-of
f
switch.
The
switch
is
to
be
placed
in
a
location
not
readily
accessible
to
the
driver
or
passengers.
b.
Alternator
.
(1)
All
T
ype
A
and
T
ype
B
buses
with
a
GVWR
of
15,000
pounds
or
less
have
a
minimum
130-amp
alternator
.
Buses
equipped
with
an
electrically
powered
wheelchair
lift,
air
conditioning,
or
both
are
to
be
equipped
with
the
highest
rated
capacity
available
from
the
chassis
OEM.
(2)
All
buses
over
15,000
pounds
GVWR
are
equipped
with
a
heavy-duty
truck-
or
bus-type
alternator
that
has
a
minimum
output
rating
of
200
amps
or
higher
and
that
produces
a
minimum
current
output
of
50
percent
of
the
rating
at
engine
idle
speed.
(3)
Buses
other
than
those
described
in
subparagraph
44.3(17)
“b”
(1)
equipped
with
an
electrically
powered
wheelchair
lift,
air
conditioning,
or
both
shall
have
a
minimum
alternator
output
of
240
amps.
(4)
A
belt-driven
alternator
is
capable
of
handling
the
rated
capacity
of
the
alternator
with
no
detrimental
ef
fect
on
any
other
driven
components.
(For
estimating
required
alternator
capacity
,
see
School
Bus
Manufacturers
T
echnical
Council’
s
publication
“School
Bus
T
echnical
Reference,”
dated
August
2001
and
available
at
www
.nasdpts.or
g
.)
(5)
A
direct/gear
-drive
alternator
is
permissible
in
lieu
of
a
belt-driven
alternator
.
c.
Electrical
components.
Materials
in
electrical
components
shall
contain
no
mercury
.
d.
W
iring,
chassis.
(1)
All
wiring
conforms
to
current
applicable
recommended
practices
of
the
Society
of
Automotive
Engineers
(SAE).
All
wiring
uses
color
and
at
least
one
other
method
for
identification.
The
other
method
is
to
be
either
a
number
code
or
name
code,
and
each
chassis
will
be
delivered
with
a
wiring
diagram
that
illustrates
the
wiring
of
the
chassis.
(2)
The
chassis
manufacturer
of
an
incomplete
vehicle
will
install
a
readily
accessible
terminal
strip
or
connector
on
the
body
side
of
the
cowl
or
in
an
accessible
location
in
the
engine
compartment
of
vehicles
designed
without
a
cowl.
The
strip
or
connector
will
contain
the
following
terminals
for
the
body
connections:
1.
Main
100-amp
body
circuit.
2.
T
ail
lamps.
3.
Right
turn
signal.
4.
Left
turn
signal.
5.
Stop
lamps.
6.
Backup
lamps.
7.
Instrument
panel
lights
(rheostat
controlled
by
headlamp
switch).
(3)
An
appropriate
identifying
diagram
(color
plus
a
name
or
number
code)
for
all
chassis
electrical
circuits
will
be
provided
to
the
body
manufacturer
for
distribution
to
the
end
user
.
(4)
W
iring
for
the
headlamp
system
will
be
separate
from
the
electronic
controlled
body
solenoid/module.
e.
W
iring,
body
.
(1)
All
wiring
conforms
to
current
applicable
SAE
recommended
practices.
(2)
All
wiring
has
an
amperage
capacity
exceeding
the
design
load
by
at
least
25
percent.
All
wiring
splices
are
to
be
accessible
and
noted
as
splices
on
the
wiring
diagram.
(3)
A
body
wiring
diagram,
sized
to
be
easily
read,
will
be
furnished
with
each
bus
body
or
af
fixed
to
an
area
convenient
to
the
electrical
accessory
control
panel.
(4)
The
body
power
wire
will
be
attached
to
a
special
terminal
on
the
chassis.
(5)
Each
wire
passing
through
metal
openings
will
be
protected
by
a
grommet.
10
(6)
W
ires
not
enclosed
within
the
body
will
be
fastened
securely
at
intervals
of
not
more
than
18
inches.
All
joints
are
to
be
soldered
or
joined
by
equally
ef
fective
connectors,
which
are
to
be
water
-resistant
and
corrosion-resistant.
(7)
W
iring
will
be
arranged
in
circuits,
as
required,
with
each
circuit
protected
by
a
fuse
breaker
or
electronic
protection
device.
A
system
of
color
-
and
number
-coding
will
be
used
and
an
appropriate
identifying
diagram
shall
be
provided
to
the
end
user
,
along
with
the
wiring
diagram
provided
by
the
chassis
manufacturer
.
The
wiring
diagrams
will
be
specific
to
the
bus
model
supplied
and
include
any
changes
to
wiring
made
by
the
body
manufacturer
.
The
following
body
interconnecting
circuits
will
be
color
-coded,
as
noted:
FUNCTION
COLOR
Left
Rear
Directional
Lamp
Y
ellow
Right
Rear
Directional
Lamp
Dark
Green
Stop
Lamps
Red
Back-Up
Lamps
Blue
T
ail
Lamps
Brown
Ground
White
Ignition
Feed,
Primary
Feed
Black
The
color
of
the
cables
will
correspond
to
SAE
J1
128,
Low-T
ension
Primary
Cable.
(8)
W
iring
will
be
arranged
in
at
least
six
regular
circuits,
as
follows:
1.
Head,
tail,
stop
(brake),
clearance
and
instrument
panel
lamps;
2.
Step
well
lamps,
which
are
actuated
when
the
entrance
door
is
open;
3.
Dome
lamps;
4.
Ignition
and
emer
gency
door
signal;
5.
T
urn
signal
lamps;
and
6.
Alternately
flashing
signal
lamps.
(9)
Any
of
the
above
combination
circuits
may
be
subdivided
into
additional
independent
circuits.
(10)
Heaters
and
defrosters
will
be
wired
on
an
independent
circuit.
(1
1)
Whenever
possible,
all
other
electrical
functions
(such
as
sanders
and
electric-type
windshield
wipers)
will
be
provided
with
independent
and
properly
protected
circuits.
(12)
Each
body
circuit
will
be
coded
by
number
or
letter
on
a
diagram
of
circuits
and
attached
to
the
body
in
a
readily
accessible
location.
(13)
Buses
may
be
equipped
with
a
12-volt
power
port
in
the
driver
’
s
area.
(14)
There
will
be
a
manual
noise
suppression
switch
installed
in
the
control
panel.
The
switch
is
to
be
labeled
and
alternately
colored.
This
switch
will
be
an
on/of
f
type
that
deactivates
body
equipment
that
produces
noise,
including
at
least
the
AM/FM
radio,
heaters,
air
conditioners,
fans
and
defrosters.
This
switch
will
not
deactivate
safety
systems,
such
as
windshield
wipers
or
lighting
systems.
44.3
(18)
Emer
gency
equipment.
a.
All
T
ype
A,
B,
C,
and
D
school
buses
will
be
equipped
with
the
following
emer
gency
equipment
mounted
forward
of
front
barriers:
first
aid
kit,
fire
extinguisher
,
webbing
cutter
,
and
body
fluid
cleanup
kit.
Three
triangular
warning
devices
are
required
in
each
vehicle
and
may
be
mounted
in
the
driver
’
s
compartment
or
behind
the
rear
seat.
b.
All
emer
gency
equipment
will
be
securely
mounted
so
that,
in
the
event
the
bus
is
overturned,
this
equipment
is
held
in
place.
Emer
gency
equipment,
with
the
exception
of
the
webbing
cutter
mounted
in
a
location
accessible
to
the
driver
,
may
be
mounted
in
an
enclosed
compartment
provided
that
the
compartment
is
labeled
in
not
less
than
1-inch
letters,
stating
the
piece(s)
of
equipment
contained
therein.
c.
Fire
extinguishers
will
meet
the
following
provisions:
(1)
The
bus
will
be
equipped
with
at
least
one
5-pound
capacity
,
UL-approved,
pressurized
dry
chemical
fire
extinguisher
complete
with
hose.
The
extinguisher
will
be
securely
mounted
in
a
1
1
heavy-duty
automotive
bracket
so
as
to
prevent
accidental
release
in
case
of
a
crash
or
in
the
event
the
bus
overturns.
(2)
A
calibrated
or
marked
gauge
is
to
be
mounted
on
the
extinguisher
to
indicate
the
amount
of
pressure
in
the
extinguisher
and
easily
read
without
moving
the
extinguisher
from
its
mounted
position.
Plastic
dischar
ge
heads
and
related
parts
are
not
acceptable.
(3)
The
fire
extinguisher
will
have
a
rating
of
2A-10BC
or
greater
.
The
operating
mechanism
will
be
sealed
with
a
type
of
seal
that
will
not
interfere
with
the
use
of
the
fire
extinguisher
.
(4)
All
fire
extinguishers
are
to
be
inspected
and
maintained
in
accordance
with
the
National
Fire
Protection
Association
requirements.
(5)
Each
extinguisher
will
have
a
tag
or
label
securely
attached
that
indicates
the
month
and
year
the
extinguisher
received
its
last
maintenance
and
the
identity
of
the
person
performing
the
service.
d.
First
aid
kit.
A
first
aid
kit
meeting
the
national
recommendations
(most
current
National
School
T
ransportation
Specifications
and
Procedures
Manual—first
aid
kit)
is
needed
on
all
vehicles
used
for
student
transportation.
e.
Body
fluid
cleanup
kit.
Each
vehicle
used
for
student
transportation
will
be
equipped
with
a
disposable,
removable,
and
moistureproof
body
fluid
cleanup
kit
in
a
disposable
container
that
includes
the
following
items:
(1)
An
EP
A-registered
liquid
germicide
(tuberculocidal)
disinfectant;
(2)
A
fully
disposable
wiping
cloth;
(3)
A
water
-resistant
spatula;
(4)
Step-by-step
directions;
(5)
Absorbent
material
with
odor
counteractant;
(6)
T
wo
pairs
of
gloves;
(7)
One
package
towelettes;
(8)
A
discard
bag
(unlabeled
paper
bag
with
a
plastic
liner
and
a
twist
tie).
This
bag
is
to
be
approximately
4
inches
×
6
inches
×
14
inches.
The
kit
will
be
removable
without
the
use
of
tools.
f.
Each
vehicle
used
for
student
transportation
will
be
equipped
with
a
durable
webbing
cutter
having
a
full-width
handgrip
and
a
protected,
replaceable
or
noncorrodible
blade.
One
or
more
of
these
devices
will
be
mounted
in
an
easily
detachable
manner
and
in
a
location
accessible
to
the
seated
driver
.
g.
Axes
are
not
allowed.
44.3
(19)
Exhaust
system.
a.
The
exhaust
pipe,
muf
fler
and
tailpipe
will
be
outside
the
bus
body
compartment
and
attached
to
the
chassis
so
as
not
to
damage
any
other
chassis
component.
b.
The
tailpipe
will
be
constructed
of
a
corrosion-resistant
tubing
material
at
least
equal
in
strength
and
durability
to
16-gauge
steel
tubing.
c.
The
tailpipe
may
be
flush
with,
or
will
not
extend
more
than
2
inches
beyond,
the
perimeter
of
the
body
for
side-exit
pipe
or
the
bumper
for
rear
-exit
pipe.
The
exhaust
system
will
be
designed
such
that
exhaust
gas
will
not
be
trapped
under
the
body
of
the
bus.
d.
The
tailpipe
will
exit
to
the
left
or
right
of
the
emer
gency
exit
door
in
the
rear
of
the
vehicle
or
to
the
left
side
of
the
bus
in
front
of
or
behind
the
rear
drive
axle
or
the
tailpipe
may
extend
through
the
bumper
.
The
tailpipe
exit
location
on
all
T
ype
A-1
or
B-1
buses
may
be
in
accordance
with
the
manufacturer
’
s
standards.
The
tailpipe
will
not
exit
beneath
any
fuel
filler
location,
emer
gency
door
or
lift
door
.
e.
The
exhaust
system
on
a
chassis
will
be
adequately
insulated
from
the
fuel
system.
f.
The
muf
fler
is
to
be
constructed
of
corrosion-resistant
material.
g.
The
exhaust
system
on
vehicles
equipped
with
a
power
lift
unit
may
be
routed
to
the
left
of
the
right
frame
rail
to
allow
for
the
installation
of
a
power
lift
unit
on
the
right
side
of
the
vehicle.
h.
The
design
of
the
aftertreatment
systems
is
not
to
allow
active
(non-manual)
regeneration
of
the
particulate
filter
during
the
loading
and
unloading
of
passengers.
Manual
regeneration
systems
will
be
designed
such
that
unintentional
operation
will
not
occur
.
i.
For
aftertreatment
systems
that
require
diesel
exhaust
fluid
(DEF)
to
meet
federally
mandated
emissions:
12
(1)
The
composition
of
diesel
exhaust
fluid
(DEF)
complies
with
International
Standard
ISO
22241-1.
Refer
to
engine
manufacturer
for
any
additional
DEF
requirements.
(2)
The
DEF
supply
tank
is
sized
to
meet
a
minimum
ratio
of
3
diesel
fills
to
1
DEF
fill.
44.3
(20)
Fenders,
fr
ont
and
hood.
This
subrule
does
not
apply
to
T
ype
A
or
D
vehicles.
a.
The
total
spread
of
outer
edges
of
front
fenders,
measured
at
the
fender
line,
is
to
exceed
the
total
spread
of
front
tires
when
the
front
wheels
are
in
the
straight-ahead
position.
b.
Front
fenders
will
be
properly
braced
and
not
require
attachment
to
any
part
of
the
body
.
c.
Chassis
sheet
metal
will
not
extend
beyond
the
rear
face
of
the
cowl.
d.
Front
fenders
and
hood
may
be
of
manufacturer
’
s
standard
material
and
construction.
e.
The
hood
will
not
require
more
than
20
pounds
of
force
to
open
and
include
design
features
to
secure
the
hood
in
an
open
position.
44.3
(21)
Fir
e
suppr
ession
system.
An
automatic
fire
suppression
system
may
be
installed.
Fire
suppression
system
nozzles
will
be
located
in
the
engine
compartment,
under
the
bus,
in
the
electrical
panel
or
under
the
dash,
but
they
are
not
to
be
located
in
the
passenger
compartment.
The
system
is
to
include
a
lamp
or
buzzer
to
alert
the
driver
that
the
system
has
been
activated.
44.3
(22)
Floor
insulation
and
covering.
a.
The
floor
structure
of
T
ype
A,
B,
C
and
D
school
buses
will
be
covered
with
an
insulating
layer
of
either
a
5-ply
minimum
⅝-inch-thick
plywood,
or
a
material
of
equal
or
greater
strength
and
insulation
R-value,
having
properties
equal
to
or
exceeding
exterior
-type
softwood
plywood,
C-D
grade
as
specified
in
standards
issued
by
the
United
States
Department
of
Commerce.
All
edges
will
be
sealed.
b.
T
ype
A
buses
may
be
equipped
with
a
minimum
½-inch-thick
plywood
meeting
the
above
requirements.
c.
The
floor
in
the
under
-seat
area
of
T
ype
B,
C,
and
D
buses,
including
tops
of
wheelhousings,
driver
’
s
compartment
and
toeboard,
will
be
covered
with
an
elastomer
floor
covering
having
a
minimum
overall
thickness
of
.125
inch
and
a
calculated
burn
rate
of
0.1
mm
per
minute
or
less
using
the
test
methods,
procedures
and
formulas
listed
in
FMVSS
No.
302.
The
floor
covering
of
the
driver
’
s
area
and
toeboard
area
on
all
T
ype
A
buses
may
be
the
manufacturer
’
s
standard
flooring
and
floor
covering.
d.
The
floor
covering
in
the
aisles
will
be
of
a
ribbed
or
other
raised-pattern
elastomer
and
have
a
calculated
burn
rate
of
0.1
mm
per
minute
or
less
using
the
test
methods,
procedures
and
formulas
listed
in
FMVSS
No.
302.
Minimum
overall
thickness
is
.187
inch
measured
from
tops
of
ribs.
e.
Floor
covering
are
to
be
permanently
bonded
to
the
floor
and
must
not
crack
when
subjected
to
sudden
changes
in
temperature.
Bonding
or
adhesive
material
is
to
be
waterproof
and
of
a
type
recommended
by
the
manufacturer
of
the
floor
-covering
material.
All
seams
are
to
be
sealed
with
waterproof
sealer
.
One-piece
floor
covering
is
allowed.
f.
On
T
ype
B,
C
and
D
buses,
access
to
the
fuel
tank
sending
unit
will
be
provided.
The
access
opening
will
be
lar
ge
enough
and
positioned
to
allow
easy
removal
of
the
sending
unit.
Any
access
opening
in
the
body
is
capable
of
being
sealed
with
a
screw-down
plate
from
within
the
body
.
When
in
place,
the
screw-down
plate
will
seal
out
dust,
moisture
and
exhaust
fumes.
This
plate
will
not
be
installed
under
flooring
material.
g.
Cove
molding
or
watertight
sealant
will
be
used
along
the
sidewalls
and
rear
corners.
All
joints
or
seams
in
the
floor
covering
will
be
covered
with
nonferrous
metal
stripping
or
stripping
constructed
of
material
exhibiting
equal
durability
and
sealing
qualities.
44.3
(23)
Frame.
a.
The
steel
frame
will
have
design
and
strength
characteristics
corresponding
at
least
to
standard
practice
for
trucks
of
the
same
general
load
characteristics
that
are
used
for
highway
service.
b.
Any
secondary
manufacturer
that
modifies
the
original
chassis
frame
will
guarantee
the
performance
of
workmanship
and
materials
resulting
from
such
modification.
c.
Extensions
of
frame
lengths
are
permissible
only
when
alterations
are
behind
the
rear
hanger
of
the
rear
spring
or
in
front
of
the
front
hanger
of
front
spring
and
will
not
be
for
the
purpose
of
extending
the
wheelbase.
d.
Holes
in
top
or
bottom
flanges
or
side
units
of
the
frame
and
welding
to
the
frame
will
not
be
permitted
except
as
provided
or
accepted
by
the
chassis
manufacturer
.
13
e.
Frame
lengths
are
to
be
established
in
accordance
with
the
design
criteria
for
the
complete
vehicle.
44.3
(24)
Fuel
system.
a.
The
fuel
system
will
comply
with
FMVSS
No.
301,
Fuel
System
Integrity
.
On
T
ype
A-1
and
A-2
vehicles,
the
fuel
tank
may
be
of
the
manufacturer
’
s
standard
construction.
b.
On
chassis
with
a
wheelbase
greater
than
170
inches,
at
least
one
fuel
tank
of
60-gallon
capacity
will
be
provided
and
installed
by
the
manufacturer
.
Chassis
with
a
wheelbase
of
170
inches
or
less
will
be
equipped
with
at
least
one
fuel
tank
of
25-gallon
minimum
capacity
,
as
provided
and
installed
by
the
manufacturer
.
c.
The
fuel
tank(s)
may
be
mounted
between
the
chassis
frame
rails
or
outboard
of
the
frame
rails
on
either
the
left
or
right
side
of
the
vehicle
by
the
manufacturer
.
T
anks
are
to
be
mounted
directly
to
the
chassis
frame,
filled,
and
vented
outside
the
body
,
in
a
location
where
accidental
fuel
spillage
will
not
drip
or
drain
on
any
part
of
the
exhaust
system.
d.
Fuel
filtration
is
to
be
accomplished
by
means
of
the
following:
(1)
Gasoline-powered
systems—one
in-line
fuel
filter
is
to
be
installed
between
the
fuel
tank
and
the
engine.
(2)
Diesel-powered
systems—one
mounted
fuel
filter
with
water/fuel
separator
is
to
be
supplied
and
installed
by
the
engine
manufacturer
.
44.3
(25)
Fuel
system,
alternative
fuels.
An
alternative
fuel
is
defined
as
liquefied
petroleum
gas
(LPG),
compressed
natural
gas
(CNG),
liquefied
natural
gas
(LNG),
electricity
,
hydrogen,
methanol,
ethanol,
clean
diesel,
biodiesel,
reformulated
gasoline,
or
any
type
of
hybrid
system.
V
ehicles
that
operate
on
an
alternative
fuel
are
to
meet
the
following
provisions:
a.
Chassis
will
meet
all
standards
of
this
rule.
b.
Chassis
will
meet
all
applicable
FMVSS
standards
including
the
fuel
system
integrity
standards
of
FMVSS
No.
301
or
FMVSS
No.
303
and
FMVSS
No.
304.
c.
OEMs
and
conversion
systems
using
CNG
or
LPG
will
comply
with
NFP
A
standards
in
ef
fect
at
the
time
of
manufacture
(Standard
52,
“Compressed
Natural
Gas
V
ehicular
Fuel
Systems,”
and
Standard
58,
“Liquefied
Petroleum
Gases
Engine
Fuel
Systems”).
d.
LNG-powered
buses
will
comply
with
NFP
A
Standard
57,
“Liquefied
Natural
Gas
V
ehicular
-Fueled
Systems,”
and
be
equipped
with
an
interior/exterior
gas
detection
system.
All
natural
gas-powered
buses
will
be
equipped
with
a
fire
detection
and
suppression
system.
e.
All
materials
and
assemblies
used
to
transfer
or
store
alternative
fuels
are
to
be
installed
outside
the
passenger/driver
compartment.
f.
The
total
weight
will
not
exceed
the
GVWR
when
loaded
to
rated
capacity
.
g.
The
manufacturer
supplying
the
alternative
fuel
equipment
are
to
provide
the
owner
and
operator
with
adequate
training
in
fueling
procedures,
scheduled
maintenance,
troubleshooting,
and
repair
of
alternative
fuel
equipment.
Overflow
protection
device
(OPD)
testing
are
to
be
done
yearly
by
a
tester
trained
in
this
procedure
and
whose
training
has
been
documented.
Documentation
of
the
annual
OPD
valve
test
will
be
a
label
or
identification
tag
af
fixed
to
the
step
well
of
the
bus,
signed
and
dated
by
the
test
person
with
permanent
marker
.
The
label
will
indicate
the
expiration
date
of
the
successful
test.
h.
All
on-board
fuel
supply
containers
will
meet
all
appropriate
provisions
of
the
ASME
code,
the
DOT
regulations,
or
applicable
FMVSS
and
NFP
A
standards.
i.
All
fuel
supply
containers
will
be
securely
mounted.
j.
All
safety
devices
that
may
dischar
ge
to
the
atmosphere
will
be
vented
to
the
outside
of
the
vehicle.
The
dischar
ge
line
from
the
safety
relief
valve
on
all
school
buses
will
be
located
in
a
manner
appropriate
to
the
characteristics
of
the
alternative
fuel.
Dischar
ge
lines
are
not
to
pass
through
the
passenger
compartment
and
are
to
be
kept
clear
with
flapper
-valve
or
other
device
that
will
allow
low-pressure
dischar
ge
but
prevent
clogging
by
foreign
matter
or
insects.
k.
A
positive,
quick-acting
(¼
turn),
shut-of
f
control
valve
will
be
installed
in
the
gaseous
fuel
supply
lines
as
close
to
the
fuel
supply
containers
as
possible.
The
controls
for
this
valve
are
to
be
placed
in
a
location
easily
operable
from
the
exterior
of
the
vehicle.
The
location
of
the
valve
control
will
be
clearly
marked
on
the
exterior
surface
of
the
bus.
14
l.
A
grounding
system
is
required
for
grounding
of
the
fuel
system
during
maintenance-related
venting.
m.
Storage
batteries
for
hybrid
power
systems
will
be
protected
from
crash
impacts;
encased
in
a
nonconductive,
acid-resistant
compartment;
and
well-ventilated
to
preclude
the
possibility
of
hydrogen
gas
buildup.
n.
Additional
specific
specifications
for
electric
vehicles.
(1)
All
electric
school
bus
systems
will
be
in
full
compliance
with
all
applicable
FMVSS
and
all
Society
of
Automotive
Engineers
(SAE)
standards
that
are
applicable
at
time
of
manufacture.
(2)
Batteries
of
high
voltage
will
meet
manufacturer
’
s
specifications
and
comply
with
the
following
provisions:
1.
The
propulsion
power
source
(batteries,
fuel
cells,
etc.)
will
be
located
outside
the
passenger
compartment
and
not
be
accessible
from
the
interior
of
the
school
bus.
The
power
source
will
be
located
in
between
or
under
chassis
frame
rails
protected
by
a
steel
cage.
Extended
range
power
sources,
if
located
outside
the
frame
rails,
will
be
protected
by
a
steel
cage.
2.
High
voltage
batteries
will
have
a
main
service
disconnect
device
that
does
not
allow
high
voltage
outside
the
battery
system.
This
disconnect
device
will
not
be
in
or
accessible
from
the
passenger
area.
Any
disconnect
device
will
be
clearly
marked
on
the
bus
body
adjacent
to
each
cutof
f
switch
and
easily
recognized
in
the
event
of
a
crash.
3.
High
voltage
batteries
will
be
designed
to
prevent
the
passenger
compartment
from
becoming
ener
gized.
4.
All
batteries
will
be
designed
to
prevent
any
dangerous
fluids
or
fumes
from
entering
the
passenger
area.
5.
All
high
voltage
access
areas,
including
the
char
ging
port,
will
be
equipped
with
a
lock
or
otherwise
secured
to
prevent
unauthorized
access.
(3)
Batteries
of
low
voltage
will
have
a
low
voltage
battery
shutof
f
switch
installed
in
the
vicinity
of
the
low
voltage
battery
compartment
in
an
area
not
easily
accessible
to
the
driver
or
passengers.
The
location
of
the
low
voltage
battery
shutof
f
switch
will
be
clearly
labeled
on
the
exterior
of
the
vehicle.
(4)
The
char
ging
system
will
comply
with
the
following
provisions:
1.
The
char
ging
connection
point
will
be
outside
the
passenger
compartment.
2.
While
char
ging,
the
transmission/propulsion
system
will
be
rendered
inoperative.
3.
The
char
ging
port
will
be
located
behind
a
door
or
an
access
panel
in
accordance
with
manufacturer
standards,
with
the
door
or
access
panel
clearly
labeled
with
the
location
of
the
char
ging
port.
The
port
will
include
a
status
light
to
indicate
the
char
ging
status
of
the
battery
.
(5)
A
DC-DC
converter
will
be
provided
and
deliver
a
minimum
of
200
amps
at
12VDC.
The
converter
system
will
incorporate
a
ground
fault
interrupt
(GFI)
that
disconnects/isolates
the
high
voltage
batteries
in
the
event
of
a
shorted
circuit
or
water
intrusion.
(6)
Heaters
will
be
capable
of
heating
the
passenger
and
driver
’
s
compartments
to
a
comfortable
temperature.
(7)
The
ignition
switch
circuit
will
be
linked
to
the
battery
management
system
and
will
prevent
the
driving
of
the
vehicle
while
it
is
connected
to
an
external
battery
char
ging
source
and
designed
so
that
when
the
ignition
switch
is
of
f,
the
high
voltage
is
positively
disconnected.
(8)
The
instrument
panel
will
monitor
and
display
battery
health.
This
displayed
information
will
include:
1.
High
voltage
battery
state
of
char
ge
and
range
in
miles.
2.
Electric
motor
temperature.
3.
Battery
dischar
ge
and
regeneration
rates.
4.
Battery
health
(as
applicable:
temperature,
battery
cell
balancing,
etc.).
(9)
Electric
vehicles
will
comply
with
all
identification
per
subrule
44.3(34)
.
The
bus
will
also
display
specific
electric
vehicle
markings
as
provided
below
.
1.
The
outer
layer
of
insulation
or
wiring
conduit
for
drive
system
high-voltage
wiring
will
be
industry
standard
orange
color
or
otherwise
labeled
as
“HIGH
VOL
T
AGE”.
15
2.
All
high-voltage
components
will
be
labeled
with
a
“HIGH
VOL
T
AGE”
marking/warning.
Each
door
,
cover
,
or
other
panel
or
enclosed
compartment
that
af
fords
immediate
access
to
any
high
voltage
area
will
be
plainly
marked
with
a
hazard
warning
label
that
reads
“W
ARNING—HIGH
VOL
T
AGE”
or
“DANGER—HIGH
VOL
T
AGE”.
This
label
will
be
located
in
a
highly
conspicuous
place.
3.
An
electric
vehicle
identifying
label
of
no
less
than
2
inches
in
height
will
be
af
fixed
on
the
right
rear
corner
of
the
bus
body
,
on
the
right
side
of
the
bus
rearward
of
the
entrance
door
,
and
to
the
left
side
of
the
bus
aft
of
the
driver
’
s
window
.
4.
Additional
lettering/imagery
may
be
located
on
both
sides
of
the
bus
along
the
roof
cap
starting
above
the
service
door
and
ending
no
further
back
than
the
forward
edge
of
the
second
passenger
window
,
but
none
is
to
be
placed
on/in
any
window
.
5.
Electric
vehicle
image
graphics
may
be
used
in
combination
with
words.
(10)
The
operating
range
will
be
OEM
design
and
capable
of
operating
with
a
range
of
100
miles
or
more.
(1
1)
The
propulsion/drivetrain
system
is
exempted
from
all
internal
combustion
engine
specifications.
(12)
All
seats
will
be
mounted
to
eliminate
contact
with
batteries
and
underside
of
the
bus
if
seat
replacement
or
reconfiguration
is
necessary
.
(13)
All
electric
school
buses
will
produce
adequate
sound
for
pedestrian
alert
while
in
motion
below
20
miles
per
hour
.
(14)
Overall
system
protection
will
include:
1.
W
ire,
cable,
and
conductor
insulation
in
the
high
voltage
system
will
provide
adequate
insulation
for
the
voltage
used
and
for
ambient
temperatures
ranging
from
-15°F
to
120°F
.
2.
All
high
voltage
circuits
will
provide
adequate
and
automatic
protection
against
electrical
overloads
or
malfunctions
caused
by
short
circuits,
char
ging/dischar
ging
faults,
battery
overheating,
electrical
overheating,
degraded
battery
health,
or
other
excessive
current
conditions
through
the
use
of
fuses,
circuit
breakers,
and
ground
fault
interruption.
3.
Prior
to
any
type
of
automatic
shutdown,
a
warning
or
maintenance
indicator
will
display
in
the
driver
console
to
notify
the
driver
of
impending
shutdown
or
the
need
for
immediate
maintenance
and
allow
enough
time
to
safely
reposition
and
stop
the
bus
via
a
gradual
derating
of
propulsion
prior
to
complete
automatic
shutdown.
44.3
(26)
Fuel
system,
fuel
fill
opening
and
cover
.
Where
an
opening
in
the
school
bus
body
skirt
is
needed
for
access
to
the
fuel
fill
cap,
the
opening
will
be
lar
ge
enough
to
permit
filling
the
fuel
tank
without
the
need
for
special
fuel
nozzle
adapters,
a
funnel,
or
other
device.
The
opening
will
be
equipped
with
a
forward
hinged
cover
held
closed
by
a
spring
or
other
conveniently
operated
device.
The
cover
may
be
of
a
lockable
design.
T
ype
A
buses
are
exempt
from
the
requirement
of
a
cover
.
44.3
(27)
Governor
.
An
electronic
engine
speed
limiter
will
be
provided
and
set
to
limit
engine
speed,
not
to
exceed
the
maximum
revolutions
per
minute
as
recommended
by
the
engine
manufacturer
.
44.3
(28)
Handrails.
At
least
one
handrail
is
to
be
installed.
The
handrail
will
be
a
minimum
of
1
inch
in
diameter
and
be
constructed
from
corrosion-resistant
material(s).
The
handrail(s)
will
be
designed
to
assist
passengers
during
entry
or
exit
and
to
prevent
entanglement,
as
evidenced
by
the
passing
of
the
National
Highway
T
raf
fic
Safety
Administration
(NHTSA)
string
and
nut
test.
44.3
(29)
Heating
and
air
conditioning.
a.
The
heater
will
be
hot-water
combustion
type,
electric
heating
element,
or
heat
pump.
b.
If
only
one
heater
is
used,
it
will
be
a
fresh-air
or
combination
fresh-air
and
recirculation
type.
c.
If
more
than
one
heater
is
used,
additional
heaters
may
be
recirculating
air
type.
d.
The
heating
system
will
be
capable
of
maintaining
bus
interior
temperatures
as
specified
in
SAE
test
procedure
J2233.
e.
Auxiliary
fuel-fired
heating
systems
are
permitted,
provided
that
they
comply
with
the
following:
(1)
Heater(s)
may
be
direct
hot
air
or
connected
to
the
engine’
s
coolant
system.
16
(2)
An
auxiliary
heating
system,
when
connected
to
the
engine’
s
coolant
system,
may
be
used
to
preheat
the
engine
coolant
or
preheat
and
add
supplementary
heat
to
the
bus’
s
heating
system.
(3)
Auxiliary
heating
systems
must
be
installed
pursuant
to
the
manufacturer
’
s
recommendations
and
will
not
direct
exhaust
in
a
manner
that
will
endanger
bus
passengers.
(4)
Auxiliary
heating
systems
that
operate
on
diesel
fuel
are
to
be
capable
of
operating
on
#1,
#2
or
blended
diesel
fuel
without
the
need
for
system
adjustment.
(5)
The
auxiliary
heating
system
is
to
be
low
voltage.
(6)
Auxiliary
heating
systems
will
comply
with
all
applicable
FMVSS
including
FMVSS
No.
301
as
well
as
SAE
test
procedures.
f.
Heater
hoses
will
be
adequately
supported
to
guard
against
excessive
wear
due
to
vibration.
The
hoses
will
not
dangle
or
rub
against
the
chassis
or
any
sharp
edges
and
not
interfere
with
or
restrict
the
operation
of
any
engine
function.
Heater
hoses
will
conform
to
SAE
Standard
J20c,
“Coolant
System
Hoses.”
Heater
lines,
cores,
and
elements
on
the
interior
of
the
bus
are
to
be
shielded
to
prevent
scalding
or
burning
of
the
driver
or
passengers.
g.
Each
hot
water
system
installed
by
a
body
manufacturer
will
include
one
shut-of
f
valve
in
the
pressure
line
and
one
shut-of
f
valve
in
the
return
line
with
both
valves
at
the
engine
in
an
accessible
location,
except
that
on
all
T
ype
A
and
B
buses,
the
valves
may
be
installed
in
another
accessible
location.
h.
Each
hot
water
heating
system
will
be
equipped
with
a
device
that
is
installed
in
the
hot
water
pressure
line
that
regulates
the
water
flow
to
all
heaters
and
that
is
located
for
convenient
operation
by
the
driver
while
seated.
i.
All
combustion
heaters
will
comply
with
current
Federal
Motor
Carrier
Safety
Regulations.
j.
Accessible
bleeder
valves
will
be
installed
in
an
appropriate
place
in
the
return
lines
of
body
manufacturer
-installed
heaters
to
remove
air
from
the
heater
lines.
k.
Access
panels
will
be
provided
to
make
heater
motors,
cores,
elements,
and
fans
readily
accessible
for
service.
An
outside
access
panel
may
be
provided
for
the
driver
’
s
heater
.
l.
Air
-conditioning
systems
may
be
installed
in
accordance
with
the
following:
(1)
Evaporator
cases,
lines
and
ducting
(as
equipped)
will
be
designed
so
that
all
condensation
is
ef
fectively
drained
to
the
exterior
of
the
bus
below
floor
level
under
all
conditions
of
vehicle
movement
without
leakage
on
any
interior
portion
of
the
bus.
(2)
Any
evaporator
or
ducting
system
will
be
designed
and
installed
so
as
to
be
free
of
injury-producing
projections
or
sharp
edges.
Installation
will
not
reduce
compliance
with
any
FMVSS
applicable
to
the
school
bus.
Ductwork
will
be
installed
so
that
exposed
edges
face
the
front
of
the
bus
and
do
not
present
sharp
edges.
(3)
Any
evaporators
used
are
to
be
copper
-cored
(aluminum
or
copper
fins
acceptable),
except
that
the
front
evaporator
,
if
provided
by
a
T
ype
A
chassis
manufacturer
,
may
be
aluminum-cored.
(4)
Air
intake
for
any
evaporator
assembly(ies)
except
for
the
front
evaporator
of
a
T
ype
A
bus
will
be
equipped
with
replaceable
air
filter(s)
accessible
without
disassembly
of
the
evaporator
case.
(5)
On
buses
equipped
for
the
transportation
of
persons
with
disabilities,
the
evaporator
and
ducting
will
be
placed
high
enough
so
that
they
will
not
obstruct
existing
or
potential
occupant
securement
shoulder
strap
upper
attachment
points.
This
clearance
will
be
provided
along
the
entire
length
of
the
passenger
area
on
both
sides
of
the
bus
interior
to
allow
for
potential
retrofitting
of
new
wheelchair
positions
and
occupant
securement
devices
throughout
the
bus.
(6)
The
total
air
-conditioning
system
will
be
warranted,
including
parts
and
labor
,
for
at
least
two
years
and
include
compressor
-mounting
bracketry
and
hardware
and
any
belts
that,
directly
or
indirectly
,
drive
the
compressor(s).
Air
-conditioning
compressor
applications
are
to
be
approved
in
writing
by
the
chassis
engine
manufacturer
,
stating
that
the
installations
will
not
void
or
reduce
the
engine
manufacturer
’
s
warranty
or
extended
service
coverage
liabilities
in
any
way
.
(7)
All
components
requiring
periodic
servicing
are
to
be
readily
accessible
for
servicing.
(8)
Parts
and
service
manuals
are
to
be
provided
for
the
entire
system
including
compressor(s),
wiring
(includes
wiring
diagram),
evaporators,
condensers,
controls,
hoses
and
lines.
(9)
Electrical
requirements
for
the
air
-conditioning
system
will
be
provided
to
the
customer
prior
to
vehicle
purchase
or
,
in
the
case
of
an
after
-purchase
installation,
prior
to
installing
the
air
-conditioning
17
system
to
ensure
that
adequate
electrical
demands
imposed
by
the
air
-conditioning
system
are
capable
of
being
met.
(10)
The
installed
air
-conditioning
system
should
cool
the
interior
of
the
bus
down
to
at
least
80
degrees
Fahrenheit,
measured
at
a
minimum
of
three
points,
located
4
feet
above
the
floor
at
the
longitudinal
centerline
of
the
bus.
The
three
points
are
near
the
driver
’
s
location;
at
the
midpoint
of
the
body;
and
2
feet
forward
of
the
emer
gency
door
,
or
for
T
ype
D
rear
engine
buses,
2
feet
forward
of
the
end
of
the
aisle.
T
est
conditions
will
be
those
as
outlined
in
the
National
School
T
ransportation
Specifications
and
Procedures
Manual
2015.
44.3
(30)
Heating
system,
pr
ovisions
for
.
a.
The
engine
is
to
be
capable
of
supplying
coolant
per
SBMTC-001,
Standard
Code
for
T
esting
and
Rating
Automotive
Bus
Hot
W
ater
Heating
and
V
entilating
Equipment,
of
the
School
Bus.
b.
For
T
ype
A
vehicles
with
GVWR
of
10,000
pounds
or
less,
the
chassis
manufacturer
will
provide
a
fresh-air
front
heater
and
defroster
of
recirculating
hot
water
type.
See
also
subrules
44.3(13)
and
44.3(29)
.
44.3
(31)
Headlamps.
a.
The
headlamp
switch
will
be
of
adequate
ampere
capacity
to
carry
the
load
of
the
clearance
and
identification
lamps
in
addition
to
the
headlamps
and
tail
lamps
since
these
will
be
activated
by
the
same
switch.
b.
There
will
be
a
manually
operated
switch
for
selection
of
high-
or
low-beam
distribution
of
the
headlamps.
c.
The
headlight
system
will
be
wired
separately
from
the
body-controlled
solenoid.
d.
A
daytime
running
lamp
(DRL)
system
will
be
provided.
44.3
(32)
Hinges.
All
exposed
metal
passenger
-door
hinges
subject
to
corrosion
will
be
designed
to
allow
lubrication
without
disassembly
.
All
passenger
-door
hinges
will
be
securely
bolted
to
the
bus
body
.
Metal
screws
are
not
acceptable.
44.3
(33)
Horn.
The
bus
is
to
be
equipped
with
a
horn(s)
of
standard
make
and
tested
in
accordance
with
SAE
J377,
Horn—Forward
W
arning—Electric—Performance,
T
est,
and
Application.
44.3
(34)
Identification.
a.
The
body
will
bear
the
words
“SCHOOL
BUS”
in
black
letters
at
least
8
inches
high
on
both
front
and
rear
of
the
body
or
on
attached
signs.
The
lettering
is
to
be
placed
as
high
as
possible
without
impairment
of
its
visibility
.
The
lettering
will
conform
to
Series
B
of
Standard
Alphabets
of
Highway
Signs.
“SCHOOL
BUS”
lettering
will
have
a
reflective
background
or
,
as
an
option,
may
be
illuminated
by
backlighting.
b.
The
bus,
whether
school-owned
or
contractor
-owned,
will
have
displayed
at
the
beltline
on
each
side
of
the
vehicle
the
of
ficial
public
school
district
or
nonpublic
school
name
in
black
standard
unshaded
letters
at
least
5
inches
high,
but
not
more
than
7
inches
high.
Examples:
(1)
Blank
community
school
district.
(2)
Blank
independent
school
district.
(3)
Blank
consolidated
school
district.
If
there
is
insuf
ficient
space
due
to
the
length
of
the
name
of
the
school
district,
the
words
“community
,”
“independent,”
“consolidated,”
and
“district”
may
be
abbreviated.
If,
after
these
abbreviations,
there
is
still
insuf
ficient
space
available,
the
words
“community
school
district”
may
be
replaced
by
the
uppercase
letters
“CSD”.
c.
Buses
privately
owned
and
operated
by
an
individual
or
individuals
and
used
exclusively
for
transportation
of
students
will
bear
the
name
of
the
owner
,
at
the
beltline
on
each
side
of
the
vehicle
in
black
standard
unshaded
letters
at
least
5
inches
high,
but
not
more
than
7
inches
high.
d.
The
words
“RA
TED
CAP
ACITY
,”
along
with
the
appropriate
number
indicating
the
rated
pupil
seating
capacity
of
the
bus,
are
to
be
printed
to
the
left
of
the
entrance
door
,
at
least
6
inches
below
the
name
of
the
school
district
and
on
the
bulkhead
of
the
bus
above
the
right
windshield.
The
letters
will
be
black
in
color
and
at
least
2
inches
in
height.
The
word
“CAP
ACITY”
may
be
abbreviated
and
shown
as
“CAP
.”
where
necessary
.
18
e.
The
number
of
the
bus
will
be
printed
in
not
less
than
5-inch
nor
more
than
8-inch
black
letters,
except
as
otherwise
noted
in
this
subrule,
and
displayed
on
both
sides,
the
front
and
the
rear
of
the
bus.
The
location
of
the
bus
number
is
at
the
discretion
of
the
vehicle
owner
except
that
the
number:
(1)
W
ill
be
located
to
the
rear
of
the
service
door
not
more
than
36
inches
from
the
ground
on
the
right
side
of
the
bus
and
at
the
same
respective
position
on
the
left
side
of
the
bus.
(2)
W
ill
be
yellow
if
located
on
either
the
front
or
rear
bumper
.
(3)
May
be
placed
on
the
roof
of
the
bus
at
a
position
representing
the
approximate
lateral
and
longitudinal
midpoint
of
the
bus.
The
bus
number
will
be
black
and
measure
not
less
than
24
inches
in
length.
(4)
W
ill
not
be
located
on
the
same
line
as
the
name
of
the
school
district
on
either
side
of
the
bus,
on
the
emer
gency
door
,
or
in
a
location
that
will
interfere
with
the
words
“SCHOOL
BUS.”
f.
Buses
privately
owned
by
individuals,
a
company
,
or
a
contractor
will
also
bear
the
name
of
the
owner
,
followed
by
the
word
“OWNER”
in
not
more
than
2-inch
characters
printed
approximately
6
inches
below
the
bus
capacity
on
the
right
side
of
the
bus.
g.
Symbols,
characters
or
letters,
for
the
purpose
of
vehicle
or
route
identification
by
students,
may
be
displayed
below
the
belt
line
or
in
the
lower
,
split-sash,
glass
portion
of
the
third
passenger
window
from
the
front
on
the
service
entrance
side
of
the
bus.
Such
symbols,
characters
or
lettering,
if
used,
will
not
exceed
36
square
inches.
This
provision
applies
to
all
school
buses
regardless
of
date
of
purchase.
h.
Symbols
identifying
the
bus
as
equipped
for
or
transporting
students
with
special
needs
will
be
displayed.
See
subrule
44.4(2)
.
i.
The
words
“UNLA
WFUL
T
O
P
ASS
WHEN
LIGHTS
FLASH”
is
to
be
displayed
on
the
rear
emer
gency
door
of
the
bus
between
the
upper
and
lower
window
glass
sections.
The
letters
are
to
be
black
and
not
less
than
2
inches
nor
more
than
6
inches
in
height.
If
there
is
not
suf
ficient
space
on
the
emer
gency
door
,
letter
size
may
be
reduced
upon
approval
of
the
department
of
education.
j.
The
word
“BA
TTER
Y”
in
2-inch
black
letters
will
be
placed
on
the
door
covering
the
battery
opening.
k.
Pressure-sensitive
markings
of
vinyl
material
may
be
used
for
the
lettering
mentioned
in
this
subrule
in
lieu
of
painting.
l.
Any
lettering,
including
the
name
of
the
school’
s
athletic
team(s),
numbers,
drawings,
bumper
stickers,
characters,
holiday
decorations,
or
mascot
symbols
other
than
the
bus
manufacturer
’
s
registered
trademarks
or
those
specifically
noted
in
paragraphs
44.3(35)
“a”
through
“k”
above
are
prohibited.
m.
Fuel
type
will
be
clearly
displayed
in
2-inch
letters
either
on
the
fuel
door
or
directly
above
the
fuel
door
.
Examples:
Gasoline
or
Gasoline
Only
Diesel
or
Diesel
Fuel
or
Diesel
Only
Propane
or
Propane
Only
Diesel
Exhaust
Fluid
(DEF)
n.
A
“No
T
respassing”
sign
may
be
af
fixed
to
the
face
of
the
top
step
in
2-inch
black
letters
on
a
white
background.
44.3
(35)
Instruments
and
instrument
panel.
a.
Chassis
will
be
equipped
with
an
instrument
panel
having,
as
a
minimum,
the
following
instrumentation:
(Lights
in
lieu
of
gauges
are
not
acceptable
except
as
noted.)
(1)
Speedometer
.
(2)
Odometer
with
accrued
mileage
including
tenths
of
miles
unless
tenths
of
miles
are
registered
on
a
trip
odometer
.
(3)
V
oltmeter
with
graduated
scale.
(4)
Oil
pressure
gauge.
(5)
W
ater
temperature
gauge.
(6)
Fuel
gauge.
(7)
High-beam
headlamp
indicator
.
(8)
Air
pressure
gauge,
where
air
brakes
are
used.
A
light
indicator
in
lieu
of
a
gauge
is
permitted
on
vehicles
equipped
with
hydraulic-over
-hydraulic
brake
system.
19
(9)
T
urn
signal
indicator
.
(10)
Glow-plug
indicator
light,
where
appropriate.
(1
1)
T
achometer
required
on
vehicles
14,500
pounds
GVWR
and
greater
.
b.
Gauges
will
be
displayed
as
single-gauge
installations
or
as
gauges
contained
in
a
multifunction
instrument
display
.
The
multifunction
instrument
display
will
comply
,
as
a
minimum,
with
the
following
design
criteria:
(1)
The
driver
must
be
able
to
manually
select
any
displayable
function
of
the
gauge
on
a
multifunction
display
whenever
desired.
(2)
Whenever
an
out-of-limits
condition
occurs,
which
would
be
displayed
on
one
or
more
functions
of
a
multifunction
gauge,
the
multifunction
gauge
controller
should
automatically
display
this
condition
on
the
instrument
cluster
.
This
should
be
in
the
form
of
an
illuminated
warning
light
as
well
as
having
the
multifunction
gauge
automatically
display
the
out-of-limits
indications.
Should
two
or
more
functions
displayed
on
the
multifunction
gauge
go
out
of
limits
simultaneously
,
the
multifunction
gauge
should
automatically
sequence
between
those
functions
continuously
until
the
condition(s)
is
corrected.
(3)
The
use
of
a
multifunction
instrument
display
does
not
relieve
the
requirement
of
audible
warning
devices
pursuant
to
this
subrule.
c.
All
instruments
will
be
easily
accessible
for
maintenance
and
repair
.
d.
Instruments
and
gauges
will
be
mounted
on
the
instrument
panel
so
each
is
clearly
visible
to
the
driver
in
a
normal
seated
position.
e.
The
instrument
panel
will
have
rheostatically
controlled
lamps
of
suf
ficient
candlepower
to
illuminate
all
instruments,
gauges,
and
the
shift
selector
indicator
for
automatic
transmission.
44.3
(36)
Insulation.
a.
Thermal
insulation
in
the
ceiling
and
walls
will
be
fire-resistant,
UL-approved,
and
approximately
1½-inch
thick
with
a
minimum
R-value
of
5.5.
Insulation
will
be
installed
in
such
a
way
as
to
prevent
it
from
sagging.
b.
Roof
bows
will
be
insulated
in
accordance
with
paragraph
44.3(36)
“a.”
44.3
(37)
Interior
.
a.
The
interior
of
the
bus
is
to
be
free
of
all
unnecessary
projections,
including
luggage
racks
and
attendant
handrails,
to
minimize
the
potential
for
injury
.
This
standard
requires
inner
lining
on
ceilings
and
walls.
If
the
ceiling
is
constructed
to
contain
lapped
joints,
the
forward
panel
will
be
lapped
by
the
rear
panel
and
exposed
edges
will
be
beaded,
hemmed,
flanged,
or
otherwise
treated
to
minimize
sharp
edges.
Buses
may
be
equipped
with
a
storage
compartment
for
tools,
tire
chains,
and
tow
chains.
See
also
subrule
44.3(61)
.
b.
Radio
speakers
are
permitted
in
the
passenger
compartment
area
only
.
No
radio
speaker
,
other
than
that
which
is
necessary
for
use
with
two-way
communication
equipment,
will
be
located
within
the
driver
’
s
compartment
area.
All
radio
speakers
will
be
flush-mounted
with
the
roof
or
side
panels
and
free
of
sharp
edges.
c.
The
driver
’
s
area
forward
of
the
foremost
padded
barriers
will
permit
the
mounting
of
required
safety
equipment
and
vehicle
operation
equipment.
d.
Every
school
bus
will
be
constructed
so
that
the
noise
level
taken
at
the
ear
of
the
occupant
nearest
to
the
primary
vehicle
noise
source
does
not
exceed
85
dBA
when
tested
according
to
the
procedure
found
in
Appendix
B,
National
School
T
ransportation
Specifications
and
Procedures
Manual
2015.
e.
An
access
panel
will
be
provided,
front
and
rear
,
so
lights
and
wiring
for
the
8-light
warning
system
may
be
repaired
or
serviced
without
removing
ceiling
panels.
f.
Ceiling
material
designed
to
reduce
noise
within
the
driver
compartment
or
passenger
compartment
may
be
installed
by
the
manufacturer
.
g.
An
electronic
“child
check”
monitor
will
be
installed.
This
monitor
will
operate
in
such
a
way
as
to
require
the
driver
to
physically
walk
to
the
back
of
the
bus
to
disengage
the
monitor
system
after
having
first
shut
of
f
the
engine
of
the
bus.
h.
Mobile
W
i-Fi
Internet
and
USB
ports
are
allowed,
in
accordance
with
other
provisions
of
subrule
44.3(37)
.
20
i.
On-board
interior
bus
camera
heads
are
allowed
within
the
passenger
area
of
the
bus.
Camera
heads
are
not
to
extend
more
than
1½
inches
from
the
ceiling
and
are
to
have
rounded
edges
as
much
as
possible.
Camera
heads
will
not
be
mounted
directly
above
the
aisle.
Exterior
cameras
are
allowed.
j.
Electronic
student
detection
systems
are
allowed
on
both
the
interior
and
exterior
of
the
bus.
Interior
systems
will
detect
students
left
behind
after
the
bus
is
shut
of
f.
Exterior
systems
will
detect
students
in
the
danger
zones.
44.3
(38)
Lamps
and
signals.
a.
All
lamps
and
lamp
components
will
meet
or
exceed
applicable
standards
established
by
the
Society
of
Automotive
Engineers
(SAE),
the
American
Association
of
Motor
V
ehicle
Administrators
(AAMV
A),
and
FMVSS.
These
lamps
will
be
of
incandescent
or
LED
design.
b.
Clearance
lamps.
The
body
will
be
equipped
with
two
amber
clearance
lamps
at
the
front
and
two
red
clearance
lamps
at
the
rear
mounted
at
the
highest
and
widest
portion
of
the
body
.
c.
Identification
lamps.
The
bus
will
be
equipped
with
three
amber
identification
lamps
on
the
front
and
three
red
identification
lamps
on
the
rear
.
Each
group
will
be
evenly
spaced
not
less
than
6
or
more
than
12
inches
apart
along
a
horizontal
line
near
the
top
of
the
vehicle.
d.
Intermediate
side
marker
lamps.
On
all
buses
over
30
feet
long,
one
amber
side
lamp
is
necessary
on
each
side,
located
midway
between
the
front
and
rear
clearance
lamps.
e.
Stop/tail
(brake)
lamps.
Buses
will
be
equipped
with
four
combination,
red
stop/tail
lamps
meeting
SAE
specifications.
Each
lamp
will
have
double
filament
lamp
bulbs
or
LEDs
that
are
connected
to
the
headlamp
and
brake-operated
stop
lamp
circuits.
These
should
be
positioned
as
follows:
(1)
T
wo
combination
lamps
with
a
minimum
diameter
of
7
inches
or
,
if
a
shape
other
than
round,
a
minimum
of
38
square
inches
of
illuminated
area
will
be
mounted
on
the
rear
of
the
bus
just
to
the
inside
of
the
turn
signal
lamps.
(2)
T
wo
combination
lamps
with
a
minimum
diameter
of
4
inches
or
,
if
a
shape
other
than
round,
a
minimum
of
12
square
inches
of
illuminated
area
will
be
mounted
on
the
rear
of
the
body
between
the
beltline
and
the
floor
line.
The
rear
license
plate
lamp
may
be
combined
with
one
lower
tail
lamp.
Stop
lamps
will
be
activated
by
the
service
brakes
and
emit
a
steady
light
when
illuminated.
T
ype
A-2
buses
with
bodies
supplied
by
the
chassis
manufacturer
may
have
the
manufacturer
’
s
standard
stop
and
tail
lamps.
f.
Items
described
in
paragraphs
44.3(38)
“b,”
“c,”
“d,”
and
“e”
will
be
connected
to
the
headlamp
switch.
g.
Backup
lamps.
The
bus
body
will
be
equipped
with
two
white
rear
backup
lamps.
All
vehicles
will
be
equipped
with
lamps
at
least
4
inches
in
diameter
or
,
if
a
shape
other
than
round,
a
minimum
of
13
square
inches
of
illuminated
area.
All
lamps
will
have
a
white
or
clear
lens
and
meet
SAE
specifications.
If
backup
lamps
are
placed
on
the
same
line
as
the
brake
lamps
and
turn
signal
lamps,
they
will
be
to
the
inside.
Exterior
perimeter
lighting
behind
rear
axle,
activated
by
reverse
switch,
is
allowed.
h.
Interior
lamps.
Interior
lamps
will
be
provided
that
adequately
illuminate
the
interior
aisle
and
the
step
well.
Step
well
lights
and
exterior
boarding
lights
are
required
and
will
be
illuminated
by
a
service
door
-operated
switch,
to
illuminate
only
when
headlights
and
clearance
lights
are
on
and
the
service
door
is
open.
In
addition,
the
following
interior
lamps
will
be
provided:
(1)
Supervisor
’
s
light.
The
rearmost
ceiling
light
or
a
separate
light
may
be
used
as
a
supervisor
’
s
light
and
will
be
activated
by
a
separate
switch
controlled
by
the
driver
.
(2)
Driver
’
s
area
dome
light.
This
light
will
have
a
separate
switch
controlled
by
the
driver
and
illuminate
the
driver
’
s
compartment
area.
(3)
Body
instrument
panel
lights
will
be
controlled
by
a
rheostat
switch.
(4)
On
buses
equipped
with
a
monitor
for
the
front
and
rear
lamps
of
the
school
bus,
the
monitor
will
be
mounted
in
full
view
of
the
driver
.
If
the
full
circuit
current
passes
through
the
monitor
,
each
circuit
will
be
protected
by
a
fuse
or
circuit
breaker
against
any
short
circuit
or
intermittent
shorts.
i.
License
plate
lamp.
The
bus
will
be
equipped
with
a
rear
license
plate
illuminator
.
This
lamp
may
be
combined
with
one
of
the
tail
lamps.
21
j.
Reflectors.
Reflectors
will
be
securely
attached
to
the
body
with
sheet
metal
screws
or
another
method
having
equivalent
securement
properties
and
installed
in
accordance
with
the
requirements
of
FMVSS
No.
108;
however
,
the
vehicle
will,
as
a
minimum,
be
equipped
with
the
following:
(1)
T
wo
amber
reflectors,
one
on
each
side
at
the
lower
front
and
corner
of
the
body
approximately
at
floor
level
and
back
of
the
door
on
the
right
side,
and
at
a
similar
location
on
the
left
side.
For
all
buses
over
30
feet
long,
an
additional
amber
reflector
is
necessary
on
each
side
at
or
near
the
midpoint
between
the
front
and
rear
side
reflectors.
(2)
Four
red
reflectors,
one
at
each
side
at
or
near
the
rear
and
two
on
the
rear
,
one
at
each
side.
(3)
Reflectors
are
to
be
mounted
at
a
height
not
more
than
42
inches
or
less
than
30
inches
above
the
ground
on
which
the
vehicle
stands.
k.
W
arning
signal
lamps.
(1)
Buses
will
be
equipped
with
two
red
lamps
at
the
rear
of
the
vehicle
and
two
red
lamps
at
the
front
of
the
vehicle.
(2)
In
addition
to
the
four
red
lamps
described
above,
four
amber
lamps
will
be
installed
so
that
one
amber
lamp
is
located
near
each
red
signal
lamp,
at
the
same
level,
but
closer
to
the
vertical
centerline
of
the
bus.
The
system
of
red
and
amber
signal
lamps
will
be
wired
so
that
amber
lamps
are
ener
gized
manually
and
the
red
lamps
are
automatically
ener
gized
(sequential),
with
amber
lamps
being
automatically
de-ener
gized,
when
the
stop
signal
arm
is
extended
or
when
the
bus
service
door
is
opened.
An
amber
pilot
light
and
a
red
pilot
light
will
be
installed
adjacent
to
the
driver
controls
for
the
flashing
signal
lamp
to
indicate
to
the
driver
which
lamp
system
is
activated.
(3)
The
area
immediately
around
the
lens
of
each
alternately
flashing
signal
lamp
is
to
be
black.
In
installations
where
there
is
no
flat
vertical
portion
of
body
immediately
surrounding
the
entire
lens
of
the
lamp,
there
will
be
a
circular
or
square
band
of
black
immediately
below
and
to
both
sides
of
the
lens,
on
the
body
or
roof
area
against
which
the
signal
lamp
is
seen
from
a
distance
of
500
feet
along
the
axis
of
the
vehicle.
Black
visors
or
hoods,
with
a
minimum
depth
of
4
inches,
may
be
provided.
(4)
Red
lamps
will
flash
at
any
time
the
stop
signal
arm
is
extended.
(5)
All
flashers
for
alternately
flashing
red
and
amber
signal
lamps
will
be
enclosed
in
the
body
in
a
readily
accessible
location.
(6)
Strobe
lights
are
permissible.
(7)
Additional
electronic/lighted
warning
devices
mounted
on
the
rear
of
the
bus
are
allowed.
Each
design
will
be
evaluated
and
approved
by
Iowa
department
of
education
personnel
per
established
criteria.
(8)
Supplemental
warning
lights
may
be
installed
by
the
vehicle
owner
.
The
supplemental
warning
lights
may
be
mounted
to
the
front
and
rear
of
all
T
ype
A,
B,
C
and
D
school
buses
and
will
meet
the
following
provisions:
1.
W
ill
be
wired
into
the
existing
8-way
warning
light
system,
operate
only
with
the
existing
red
lights
of
that
system,
and
use
the
same
flash
pattern.
2.
W
ill
be
a
four
-light
system
(two
front,
two
rear)
and
will
not
be
mounted
directly
to
either
the
front
or
rear
bumper
.
●
Front
lights
will
be
located
between
the
outer
edge
of
the
grill
opening
and
the
outer
edge
of
the
headlight(s),
and
sit
horizontally
rather
than
vertically
.
The
lens
of
the
light
will
be
approximately
perpendicular
to
the
ground
and
to
the
outside
edge
of
the
bus
body
.
●
Rear
lights
will
be
located
1
inch
to
3
inches
above
the
bumper
,
with
a
maximum
of
4
inches
above
the
bumper;
will
be
located
at
least
1
inch
inboard
from
the
outside
edge
of
the
bus,
but
left
and
right
of
the
emer
gency
door;
and
will
sit
horizontally
rather
than
vertically
.
The
lens
of
the
light
will
be
approximately
perpendicular
to
the
ground
and
to
the
outside
edge
of
the
bus
body
.
l.
T
urn
signal
lamps.
(1)
The
bus
body
will
be
equipped
with
amber
rear
turn
signal
lamps
that
meet
SAE
specifications
and
are
at
least
7
inches
in
diameter
or
,
if
a
shape
other
than
round,
a
minimum
of
38
square
inches
of
illuminated
area.
These
signal
lamps
will
be
connected
to
the
chassis
hazard
warning
switch
to
cause
simultaneous
flashing
of
turning
signal
lamps
when
needed
as
a
vehicular
traf
fic
hazard
warning.
T
urn
signal
lamps
are
to
be
placed
as
far
apart
as
practical,
and
their
centerline
will
be
approximately
8
inches
22
below
the
rear
window
.
T
ype
A-2
conversion
vehicle
lamps
will
be
at
least
21
square
inches
in
lens
area
and
in
the
manufacturer
’
s
standard
color
.
(2)
Buses
will
be
equipped
with
amber
side-mounted
turn
signal
lights.
The
turn
signal
lamp
on
the
left
side
will
be
mounted
rearward
of
the
stop
signal
arm,
and
the
turn
signal
lamp
on
the
right
side
will
be
mounted
rearward
of
the
service
door
.
m.
A
white
flashing
strobe
light
rated
for
outdoor
use
and
weather
-sealed
will
be
installed
on
the
roof
of
the
bus
not
less
than
1
foot
or
more
than
18
inches
from
the
rear
center
of
the
bus.
The
strobe
light
will
be
located
to
the
rear
of
the
rearmost
emer
gency
roof
hatch
to
prevent
the
roof
hatch
from
diminishing
the
ef
fectiveness
of
the
strobe
light.
In
addition:
(1)
The
strobe
light
will
have
a
single
clear
lens
emitting
light
360
degrees
around
its
vertical
axis
and
will
not
extend
above
the
roof
more
than
the
maximum
legal
height
pursuant
to
Iowa
Code
section
321.456
.
(2)
The
strobe
light
will
be
controlled
by
a
separate
switch
with
an
indicator
light
that
when
lit
will
indicate
that
the
strobe
light
is
turned
on.
(3)
The
light
will
be
used
in
fog,
rain,
snow
,
or
at
times
when
visibility
is
restricted.
The
light
may
also
be
used
as
determined
to
be
appropriate.
(4)
Each
model
strobe
light
will
meet
the
provisions
of
SAE
J845
Class
1.
n.
Pedestrian
safety
crossing
lights
are
allowed
and
will
activate
automatically
in
conjunction
with
the
stepwell
and
boarding
lights.
44.3
(39)
Measur
ements.
a.
Interior
body
height
will
be
72
inches
or
more,
measured
metal
to
metal,
at
any
point
on
the
longitudinal
centerline
from
the
front
vertical
bow
to
the
rear
vertical
bow
.
Inside
body
height
of
T
ype
A-2
buses
will
be
62
inches
or
more.
b.
Overall
height,
length
and
width
of
the
bus
will
not
exceed
the
maximums
allowed
by
the
department
of
transportation.
44.3
(40)
Metal
tr
eatment.
a.
All
metal,
except
high-grade
stainless
steel
or
aluminum,
used
in
construction
of
the
bus
body
will
be
zinc-coated
or
aluminum-coated
to
prevent
corrosion.
This
provision
applies
to
such
items
as
structural
members,
inside
and
outside
panels,
door
panels
and
floor
sills.
Excluded
are
such
items
as
door
handles,
grab
handles,
interior
decorative
parts
and
other
interior
plated
parts.
b.
All
metal
parts
that
will
be
painted
will
be,
in
addition
to
above
requirements,
chemically
cleaned,
etched,
zinc-phosphate
coated
and
zinc-chromate
or
epoxy
primed
to
improve
paint
adhesion.
c.
In
providing
for
these
provisions,
particular
attention
will
be
given
lapped
surfaces,
welded
connections
of
structural
members,
cut
edges,
punched
or
drilled
hole
areas
in
sheet
metal,
closed
or
box
sections,
unvented
or
undrained
areas,
and
surfaces
subjected
to
abrasion
during
vehicle
operation.
d.
As
evidence
that
the
above
requirements
have
been
met,
samples
of
materials
and
sections
used
in
construction
of
the
bus
body
will
be
subjected
to
cyclic
corrosion
testing
as
outlined
in
SAE
J1563.
44.3
(41)
Mirr
ors.
a.
The
interior
mirror
will
be
either
clear
view
laminated
glass
or
clear
view
glass
bonded
to
a
backing
that
retains
the
glass
in
the
event
of
breakage.
The
mirror
will
have
rounded
corners
and
protected
edges.
All
T
ype
A
buses
will
have
a
minimum
of
a
6-inch
×
16-inch
mirror;
and
T
ype
B,
C,
and
D
buses
will
have
a
minimum
of
a
6-inch
×
30-inch
mirror
.
b.
Each
school
bus
will
be
equipped
with
exterior
mirrors
meeting
the
requirements
of
FMVSS
No.
1
1
1.
Mirrors
will
be
easily
adjustable,
but
rigidly
braced
so
as
to
reduce
vibration.
c.
All
exterior
mirrors
will
be
heated.
d.
Systems
of
fering
a
design
feature
permitting
the
driver
to
remotely
adjust
rearview
mirrors
from
the
driver
’
s
compartment
will
be
utilized.
e.
The
right-side
rearview
mirrors
will
be
unobstructed
by
the
unwiped
section
of
the
windshield.
f.
Stainless
steel
mirror
brackets
are
allowed.
g.
An
interior
mirror
utilizing
a
secondary
screen
linked
to
an
exterior
camera
is
allowed.
However
,
the
secondary
screen
must
revert
to
a
mirror
status
when
the
bus
is
moving
forward.
44.3
(42)
Mounting.
23
a.
The
chassis
frame
will
support
the
rear
body
cross
member
.
Except
where
chassis
components
interfere,
the
bus
body
will
be
attached
to
the
chassis
frame
at
each
main
floor
sill
in
such
manner
as
to
prevent
shifting
or
separation
of
the
body
from
the
chassis
under
severe
operating
conditions.
b.
Isolators
will
be
placed
at
all
contact
points
between
the
body
and
chassis
frame
and
secured
by
a
positive
means
to
the
chassis
frame
or
body
to
prevent
shifting,
separation,
or
displacement
of
the
isolators
under
severe
operating
conditions.
c.
The
body
front
will
be
attached
and
sealed
to
the
chassis
cowl
to
prevent
entry
of
water
,
dust,
and
fumes
through
the
joint
between
the
chassis
cowl
and
body
.
d.
The
refurbishing
or
reconditioning
of
a
body-on-chassis
school
bus
is
limited
to
the
repair
and
replacement
of
school
bus
body
or
chassis
components.
The
original
body
and
chassis,
as
certified
by
the
OEMs,
will
be
retained
as
a
unit
upon
completion
of
repairs.
It
is
not
permissible
to
exchange
or
interchange
school
bus
bodies
and
chassis.
The
refurbisher
or
reconditioner
will
certify
that
the
vehicle
meets
all
state
and
federal
construction
standards
in
ef
fect
as
of
the
date
of
manufacture
and
will
provide
suitable
warranty
on
all
work
performed.
See
also
subrule
44.6(1)
.
44.3
(43)
Mud
flaps.
a.
Mud
flaps
or
guards
are
required
and
provided
and
installed
by
the
body
manufacturer
or
manufacturer
’
s
representative
for
both
front
and
rear
wheels.
b.
Front
mud
flaps
or
guards
will
be
of
adequate
size
to
protect
body
areas
vulnerable
to
road
debris
from
wheels
and
mounted
so
as
to
be
free
of
wheel
movement
at
all
times.
c.
Rear
mud
flaps
or
guards
will
be
comparable
in
size
to
the
width
of
the
rear
wheelhousing
and
reach
within
approximately
9
inches
of
the
ground
when
the
bus
is
empty
.
They
will
be
mounted
at
a
distance
from
the
wheels
to
permit
free
access
to
spring
hangers
for
lubrication
and
maintenance
and
to
prevent
their
being
damaged
by
tire
chains
or
being
pulled
of
f
while
the
vehicle
is
in
reverse
motion.
d.
All
mud
flaps
will
be
constructed
of
rubber
or
a
rubber
composite.
V
inyl
or
plastic
is
not
acceptable.
44.3
(44)
Openings.
All
openings
in
the
floorboard
or
fire
wall
between
the
chassis
and
passenger
compartment,
such
as
for
gearshift
selector
and
parking
brake
lever
,
will
be
sealed.
44.3
(45)
Passenger
secur
ement
seating
system.
a.
All
vehicles
will
conform
to
all
FMVSS
at
date
of
manufacture.
b.
Unless
otherwise
provided
by
FMVSS,
school
bus
seats
may
be
equipped
with
passenger
securement
systems
for
passengers
with
disabilities
in
accordance
with
281—Chapter
41
when
the
child’
s
individual
education
program
staf
fing
team
determines
that
special
seating
and
positioning
are
necessary
during
transportation.
When
a
child
securement
system
is
necessary
,
the
seat,
including
seat
frame,
seat
cushion,
belt
attachment
points,
belts
and
hardware,
will
comply
with
all
applicable
FMVSS
at
the
time
of
manufacture.
c.
Children
transported
in
child
safety
seats
will
be
secured
to
a
school
bus
seat
utilizing
a
seat
belt-ready
seat
frame,
according
to
the
child
safety
seat
manufacturer
’
s
instructions.
44.3
(46)
Public
addr
ess
system.
A
public
address
system
permitting
interior
,
exterior
or
both
interior
and
exterior
communication
with
passengers
may
be
installed.
44.3
(47)
Radio/communication
system.
Each
school
bus
will
have
a
communication
system
to
allow
communication
between
the
driver
of
the
bus
and
the
school’
s
base
of
operations
for
school
transportation.
This
system
will
be
a
two-way
radio,
cellular
phone,
or
similar
device
as
allowed
by
local
and
state
policies
regarding
use
of
handheld
communication
equipment.
44.3
(48)
Retr
or
eflective
material.
a.
Retroreflective
material
will
be
provided
in
accordance
with
the
following:
(1)
The
rear
of
the
bus
body
is
marked
with
strips
of
reflective
NSBY
material
to
outline
the
perimeter
of
the
back
of
the
bus
using
material
that
conforms
with
the
requirements
of
FMVSS
No.
131.
The
perimeter
marking
of
rear
emer
gency
exits
per
FMVSS
No.
217
or
the
use
of
retroreflective
“SCHOOL
BUS”
signs
partially
accomplish
the
objective
of
this
provision.
T
o
complete
the
perimeter
marking
of
the
back
of
the
bus,
strips
of
retroreflective
NSBY
material,
a
minimum
of
1
inch
and
a
maximum
of
2
inches
in
width,
is
applied
horizontally
above
the
rear
windows
and
above
the
rear
bumper
,
extending
from
the
rear
emer
gency
exit
perimeter
marking
outward
to
the
left
and
right
24
rear
corners
of
the
bus.
V
ertical
strips
are
applied
at
the
corners
connecting
these
horizontal
strips.
Multifunction
school
activity
buses
(MFSABs)
are
exempt
from
these
color
requirements.
(2)
“SCHOOL
BUS”
signs,
if
not
of
lighted
design,
are
marked
with
reflective
NSBY
material
comprising
background
for
lettering
of
the
front
and
rear
“SCHOOL
BUS”
signs.
(3)
Sides
of
the
bus
body
are
marked
with
reflective
NSBY
material
at
least
1¾
inches
in
width,
extending
the
length
of
the
bus
body
and
located
within
6
inches
above
or
below
the
floor
line
or
on
the
beltline.
b.
Front
and
rear
bumpers
may
be
marked
diagonally
45
degrees
down
to
centerline
of
pavement
with
2-inch
+/-
¼
inch
wide
strips
of
noncontrasting
reflective
material.
This
material
will
appear
black
during
daylight
hours;
however
,
it
will
be
seen
as
a
reflective
material
during
periods
of
reduced
light
conditions
when
a
direct
light
source
strikes
the
material.
44.3
(49)
Road
speed
contr
ol.
A
road
speed
control
device
or
a
vehicle
cruise
control
may
be
utilized.
44.3
(50)
Rub
rails.
a.
One
rub
rail
located
on
each
side
of
the
bus
at,
or
no
more
than
8
inches
above,
the
seat
level
will
extend
from
the
rear
side
of
the
entrance
door
completely
around
the
bus
body
(except
for
emer
gency
door
or
any
maintenance
access
door)
to
the
point
of
curvature
near
the
outside
cowl
on
the
left
side.
b.
One
rub
rail
located
at,
or
no
more
than
10
inches
above,
the
floor
line
will
cover
the
same
longitudinal
area
as
the
upper
rub
rail,
except
at
wheelhousings,
and
will
extend
only
to
radii
of
the
right
and
left
rear
corners.
c.
Rub
rails
at
or
above
the
floor
line
will
be
attached
at
each
body
post
and
all
other
upright
structural
members.
d.
Each
rub
rail
will
be
4
inches
or
more
in
width
in
its
finished
form,
be
of
16-gauge
steel
or
suitable
material
of
equivalent
strength,
and
be
constructed
in
corrugated
or
ribbed
fashion.
e.
Rub
rails
will
be
applied
to
outside
body
or
outside
body
posts.
Pressed-in
or
snap-on
rub
rails
do
not
satisfy
this
provision.
For
all
buses
using
a
rear
luggage
or
rear
engine
compartment,
rub
rails
need
not
extend
around
rear
corners.
f.
The
bottom
edge
of
the
body
side
skirts
will
be
stif
fened
by
application
of
a
rub
rail,
or
the
edge
may
be
stif
fened
by
providing
a
flange
or
other
stif
feners.
g.
Rub
rails
will
be
painted
black
or
be
covered
with
black
retroreflective
material.
44.3
(51)
Seating,
crash
barriers.
a.
All
school
buses
(including
T
ype
A)
will
be
equipped
with
restraining
barriers
that
conform
to
FMVSS
No.
222.
b.
Crash
barriers
will
be
installed
conforming
to
FMVSS
No.
222;
however
,
all
T
ype
A-2
school
bus
bodies
will
be
equipped
with
padded
crash
barriers,
one
located
immediately
to
the
rear
of
the
driver
’
s
seat
and
one
at
the
service
door
entrance
immediately
to
the
rear
of
the
step
well.
c.
Crash
barriers
will
be
constructed
with
materials
that
enable
the
crash
barriers
and
passenger
seats
to
meet
the
criteria
contained
in
the
School
Bus
Seat
Upholstery
Fire
Block
T
est
specified
in
the
National
School
T
ransportation
Specifications
and
Procedures
Manual
2015.
Fire
block
material,
when
used,
will
include
the
covering
of
seat
bottoms.
d.
All
crash/restraining
barriers
will
be
the
same
height
as
the
passenger
seating
height
in
the
bus.
44.3
(52)
Seating,
driver
.
Buses
will
be
equipped
with
a
T
ype
2
lap
belt/shoulder
harness
seat
belt
assembly
for
the
driver
.
This
assembly
may
be
integrated
into
the
driver
’
s
seat.
The
seat
belt
assembly
and
anchorage
will
meet
applicable
FMVSS.
The
design
will
also
meet
the
following
additional
provisions:
a.
The
lap
portion
of
the
belt
will
be
anchored
or
guided
at
the
seat
frame
by
a
metal
loop
or
other
such
device
attached
to
the
right
side
of
the
seat
to
prevent
the
driver
from
sliding
sideways
out
of
the
seat.
b.
There
will
be
a
minimum
of
7
inches
of
adjustment
of
the
“D”
loop
of
the
driver
’
s
shoulder
harness
on
a
nonintegrated
style
of
seat
belt
assembly
.
c.
The
driver
’
s
seat
belt
assembly
will
incorporate
high-visibility
material.
An
audible
alarm
is
also
allowed.
44.3
(53)
Seating,
passenger
.
25
a.
All
seats,
component
parts,
seat
anchorage,
cushion
depth,
seat
back
height,
rump
width,
and
seat-to-seat
or
seat-to-barrier
measurements
will
comply
with
applicable
federal
requirements
as
of
the
date
of
manufacture,
including
FMVSS
No.
217
and
No.
222.
b.
Seat-to-seat
and
seat-to-barrier
measurements
will
be
on
a
label
permanently
af
fixed
to
the
bus.
c.
Jump
seats
or
portable
seats
are
prohibited;
however
,
use
of
a
flip
seat
at
any
side
emer
gency
door
location
in
conformance
with
FMVSS
No.
222,
including
required
aisle
width
to
side
door
,
is
acceptable.
Any
flip
seat
will
be
free
of
sharp
projections
on
the
underside
of
the
seat
bottom.
The
underside
of
the
flip-up
seat
bottoms
will
be
padded
or
contoured
to
reduce
the
possibility
of
snagged
clothing
or
injury
during
use.
Flip
seats
will
be
constructed
to
prevent
passenger
limbs
from
becoming
entrapped
between
the
seat
back
and
the
seat
cushion
when
in
an
upright
position.
The
seat
cushion
will
be
designed
to
rise
to
a
vertical
position
automatically
when
not
occupied.
d.
Passenger
seats
will
be
constructed
with
materials
that
enable
them
to
meet
the
criteria
contained
in
the
School
Bus
Seat
Upholstery
Fire
Block
T
est
specified
in
the
most
current
National
School
T
ransportation
Specifications
and
Procedures
Manual.
Fire
block
material,
when
used,
will
include
the
covering
of
seat
bottoms.
e.
Seat
cushions
will
contain
a
positive
locking
mechanism
that
requires
removal
of
a
security
device
before
the
seat
may
be
unlatched.
f.
For
T
ype
C
and
D
buses,
the
distance
between
the
rearmost
portion
of
the
seat
backs
of
the
rear
row
of
seats
and
outside
rear
of
the
bus
body
(rear
seat
buf
fer
zone),
measured
at
the
floor
line,
will
be
at
least
8
inches.
For
T
ype
A
buses,
the
distance
will
be
at
least
6
inches.
44.3
(54)
Seating,
passenger
r
estraints.
a.
Lap
belts
will
not
be
installed
on
passenger
seats
in
lar
ge
school
buses
(over
10,000
pounds
GVWR)
except
in
conjunction
with
child
safety
restraint
systems
that
comply
with
the
provisions
of
FMVSS
No.
213,
Child
Restraint
Systems.
b.
Three-point
lap-shoulder
belts
will
be
installed
in
all
new
buses.
The
restraint
system
shall
include
a
flexible
design
feature,
thus
allowing
three-two
seating
on
the
same
39-inch
seat,
depending
on
student
size.
44.3
(55)
Shock
absorbers.
Buses
will
be
equipped
with
double-action
shock
absorbers
compatible
with
manufacturer
’
s
rated
axle
capacity
at
each
wheel
location.
44.3
(56)
Steering
gear
.
a.
The
steering
gear
will
be
approved
by
the
chassis
manufacturer
and
designed
to
ensure
safe
and
accurate
performance
when
the
vehicle
is
operated
with
maximum
load
and
at
maximum
speed.
b.
If
external
adjustments
are
necessary
,
the
steering
mechanism
will
be
accessible.
c.
No
changes
will
be
made
in
the
steering
apparatus,
including
the
addition
of
spinners
or
knobs
that
are
not
approved
by
the
chassis
manufacturer
.
d.
There
will
be
a
clearance
of
at
least
2
inches
between
the
steering
wheel
and
cowl,
instrument
panel,
windshield,
or
any
other
surface.
e.
Power
steering
is
required
and
will
be
of
the
integral
type
with
integral
valves.
Electric
power
-assisted
steering
systems
are
allowed.
f.
The
steering
system
will
be
designed
to
provide
a
means
for
lubrication
of
all
wear
points,
if
wear
points
are
not
permanently
lubricated.
g.
T
ilting
and
telescopic
steering
wheels
are
acceptable.
44.3
(57)
Steps.
a.
The
first
step
at
the
service
door
will
be
not
less
than
10
inches
and
not
more
than
14
inches
from
the
ground
when
measured
from
the
top
surface
of
the
step
to
the
ground,
based
on
standard
chassis
specifications,
except
that
on
T
ype
D
vehicles,
the
first
step
at
the
service
door
will
be
1
1
inches
to
16
inches
from
the
ground.
A
step
well
guard/skid
plate
will
be
installed
by
the
manufacturer
on
all
T
ype
D
vehicles.
b.
Step
risers
will
not
exceed
a
height
of
10
inches.
When
plywood
is
used
on
a
steel
floor
or
step,
the
riser
height
may
be
increased
by
the
thickness
of
the
plywood.
c.
Steps
will
be
enclosed
to
prevent
accumulation
of
ice
and
snow
.
See
subparagraph
44.4(2)
“g”
(1)
for
exception.
26
d.
Steps
will
not
protrude
beyond
the
side
body
line.
44.3
(58)
Step
tr
eads.
a.
All
steps,
including
floor
line
platform
area,
will
be
covered
with
an
elastomer
floor
covering
having
a
minimum
overall
thickness
of
3⁄16
inch.
b.
The
step
covering
will
be
permanently
bonded
to
a
durable
backing
material
that
is
resistant
to
corrosion.
c.
Step
treads
will
have
a
l½-inch
white
or
yellow
nosing
as
an
integral
piece
without
any
joint.
d.
Step
treads
will
have
abrasion
resistance,
slip
resistance,
weathering
resistance,
and
flame
resistance
as
outlined
in
the
National
School
T
ransportation
Specifications
and
Procedures
Manual
2015.
e.
A
3-inch
white
or
yellow
rubber
step
edge
at
floor
level,
flush
with
the
floor
covering,
will
be
provided.
f.
Step
treads
will
have
a
calculated
burn
rate
of
.01
mm
per
minute
or
less
using
the
test
methods,
procedures
and
formulas
listed
in
FMVSS
No.
302,
Flammability
of
Interior
Materials.
g.
A
spray-on
application
type
material
that
meets
all
other
step
tread
requirements
may
be
used
in
lieu
of
the
floor
covering
described
in
paragraph
44.3(58)
“a.”
The
material
will
be
applied
not
only
to
the
interior
surfaces
of
the
service
door
step
treads
but
also
to
the
exterior
if
the
exterior
is
not
covered
by
undercoating.
44.3
(59)
Stirrup
steps.
a.
There
will
be
at
least
one
folding
stirrup
step
or
recessed
foothold
and
suitably
located
handles
on
each
side
of
the
front
of
the
body
for
easy
accessibility
for
cleaning.
b.
Steps
or
cutouts
are
permitted
in
the
front
bumper
only
,
in
lieu
of
the
stirrup
steps,
if
the
windshield
and
lamps
are
easily
accessible
for
cleaning
from
that
position.
44.3
(60)
Stop
signal
arm.
a.
The
stop
signal
arm
will
be
a
flat
18-inch
octagon
exclusive
of
brackets
for
mounting.
Stop
arms
or
other
warning
devices
will
not
extend
more
than
30
inches
beyond
the
side
of
the
bus
body
.
All
lamps
and
lamp
components
will
comply
with
the
requirements
of
FMVSS
No.
131.
b.
Both
surfaces
of
the
sign
will
be
covered
with
reflectorized
material
having
a
reflective
capability
equal
to
or
exceeding
that
of
3M
Corporation
high-intensity
sheeting.
c.
The
application
of
the
reflective
sheeting
material
will
be
in
accordance
with
the
sheeting
manufacturer
’
s
suggested
application
process.
All
copy
will
be
sharply
defined
and
clean
cut.
d.
The
stop
arm
blade
will
be
mounted
in
the
area
below
the
driver
’
s
window
on
the
left
side
of
the
bus.
e.
A
second
stop
signal
arm
will
be
installed
on
the
left
side
at
or
near
the
left
rear
corner
of
T
ype
C
and
D
school
buses
and
meet
the
requirements
of
FMVSS
No.
131.
f.
Each
stop
arm
blade
will
be
automatically
extended
upon
activation
of
the
red
warning
signal
lamp
system
and
remain
extended
until
the
red
signal
lamps
are
deactivated.
In
addition,
each
stop
arm
blade
will
be
equipped
with
two
double-faced,
4-inch,
alternately
flashing
red
lights.
The
use
of
strobe
lamps
in
the
stop
arm
blade
is
acceptable.
g.
A
wind
guard
will
be
installed
that
prevents
air
currents
from
circulating
behind
the
blades.
h.
The
stop
arm
will
be
vacuum-,
electric-,
or
air
-operated;
and
the
system
will
positively
hold
the
sign
in
extended
or
retracted
position
to
prevent
whipping
in
the
wind.
i.
If
the
air
for
an
air
-operated
stop
arm
comes
from
the
regular
air
brake
system,
the
body
manufacturer
will
provide
the
necessary
check
valve
and
pressure
reduction
valve
to
safeguard
the
air
supply
for
brake
application.
j.
The
two
double-faced,
4-inch
flashing
lights
may
be
replaced
with
an
LED
illuminated,
high-visibility
display
,
spelling
out
the
word
“ST
OP”
visible
to
the
front
and
rear
.
This
lighting
system
will
comply
with
applicable
FMVSS
prior
to
installation.
44.3
(61)
Storage
compartments.
a.
A
storage
container
for
tools,
tire
chains,
and
tow
chains
may
be
located
either
inside
or
outside
the
passenger
compartment;
but,
if
inside,
it
will
have
a
cover
(seat
cushion
may
not
serve
this
purpose)
27
capable
of
being
securely
latched
and
fastened
to
the
floor
,
convenient
to
either
the
service
or
emer
gency
door
.
b.
Luggage
compartments
are
allowed.
Compartments
will
include
a
door
and
a
means
of
holding
the
door
in
an
open
position
when
the
compartment
is
being
loaded
or
unloaded.
44.3
(62)
Suspensions.
The
capacity
of
springs
or
suspension
assemblies
will
be
commensurate
with
the
chassis
manufacturer
’
s
GVWR
rating.
44.3
(63)
Sun
shield.
a.
For
T
ype
B,
C,
and
D
vehicles,
an
interior
adjustable
transparent
sun
shield
not
less
than
6
inches
×
30
inches
with
a
finished
edge
will
be
installed
in
a
position
convenient
for
use
by
the
driver
.
An
interior
adjustable
transparent
driver
’
s
side
mounted
sun
shield
of
manufacturer
’
s
specification
is
allowed.
b.
On
all
T
ype
A
buses,
the
sun
shield
will
be
the
manufacturer
’
s
standard.
44.3
(64)
T
ir
es
and
rims.
a.
T
ires
and
rims
of
the
proper
size
and
tires
with
a
load
rating
commensurate
with
the
chassis
manufacturer
’
s
gross
vehicle
weight
rating
(GVWR)
will
be
provided.
b.
T
ires
will
be
of
tubeless,
steel-belted,
radial
(standard
or
low-profile)
construction.
c.
“Bud”
type,
hub-piloted
steel
rims
are
required.
Multipiece
and
“Dayton”
rims
are
prohibited.
Manufactured
non-ferrous
spacers
are
required
between
steel
and
aluminum
rims.
d.
Dual
tires
will
be
provided
on
all
vehicles
listed
in
rule
281—44.2
(285),
except
T
ype
III
and
T
ype
A1
vehicles.
e.
All
tires
on
a
vehicle
will
be
of
the
same
size,
and
the
load
range
of
the
tires
will
meet
or
exceed
the
GVWR
as
specified
in
FMVSS
No.
120.
f.
Spare
tires
are
not
necessary;
however
,
if
specified,
the
spare
tire
will
be
located
outside
the
passenger
compartment.
The
spare
tire
will
not
be
attached
to
any
part
of
the
rear
portion
of
the
body
including
the
emer
gency
door
,
bumper
or
roof.
If
a
tire
carrier
is
necessary
,
it
will
be
suitably
mounted
in
an
accessible
location
outside
the
passenger
compartment.
g.
Recapped
tires
are
permissible
as
replacements
on
equipment
now
in
operation
for
use
on
rear
wheels
only
,
providing
tires
are
guaranteed
by
the
seller
.
Recapped
tires
are
not
permissible
where
single
rear
wheels
are
used.
h.
T
ires,
when
measured
on
any
two
or
more
adjacent
tread
grooves,
will
have
a
tread
groove
pattern
depth
of
at
least
4/32
of
an
inch
on
the
front
wheels
and
2/32
of
an
inch
on
the
rear
wheels.
No
measurement
will
be
made
where
tire
bars,
humps,
or
fillets
are
located.
On
T
ype
A-1
and
T
ype
A-2
buses,
the
tread
groove
pattern
depth
will
be
at
least
4/32
of
an
inch.
Where
specific
measurement
points
are
provided
by
the
tire
manufacturer
,
they
will
be
utilized
in
determining
tires
approved
for
service.
This
provision
also
applies
to
buses
now
in
service.
i.
T
ire
pressure
equalizing
systems
for
dual
rear
wheels
are
acceptable.
j.
Wheel
check
indicators
for
lug
nuts
are
allowed.
44.3
(65)
T
ow
hooks,
fr
ont.
T
ow
eyes
or
hooks
are
necessary
on
T
ype
B,
C
and
D
buses
of
14,501
pounds
GVWR
or
greater
.
T
wo
tow
eyes
or
hooks
will
be
installed
by
the
manufacturer
so
as
not
to
project
beyond
the
front
bumper
.
44.3
(66)
T
ow
hooks,
r
ear
.
T
wo
rear
tow
hooks
are
necessary
on
all
school
buses.
Rear
tow
hooks
will
be
attached
to
the
chassis
frame
and
located
under
the
rear
bumper
so
the
hook
portion
is
under
the
body
.
44.3
(67)
T
raction-assisting
devices.
T
raction-assisting
devices
including
hopper
-sanders,
tire
chains
or
automatic
traction
chains
may
be
installed.
44.3
(68)
T
ransmission.
a.
Automatic
transmissions
will
provide
for
not
less
than
three
forward
speeds
and
one
reverse
speed.
The
shift
lever
,
if
applicable,
will
provide
a
detent
between
each
gear
position
when
the
gear
selector
quadrant
and
shift
lever
are
not
steering
column-mounted.
b.
Automatic
transmissions
will
have
a
transmission
shifter
interlock
controlled
by
the
application
of
the
service
brake
to
prohibit
accidental
engagement
of
the
transmission.
44.3
(69)
T
rash
container
and
holding
device.
28
a.
When
a
trash
container
is
placed
on
the
school
bus,
it
will
comply
with
the
following:
(1)
Meet
the
requirements
of
FMVSS
No.
302,
Flammability
of
Interior
Materials.
(2)
Be
no
greater
than
20-quart
capacity
.
(3)
Be
secured
by
a
holding
device
that
is
designed
to
prevent
movement
and
to
allow
easy
removal
and
replacement.
b.
The
container
will
be
placed
in
an
accessible
location
in
the
driver
’
s
compartment
of
the
school
bus
subject
to
department
of
education
approval.
The
container
will
not
obstruct
the
aisle
of
the
bus,
access
to
safety
equipment
or
passenger
use
of
the
service
entrance
door
.
c.
T
rash
containers
meeting
the
requirements
of
paragraph
44.3(69)
“a”
are
allowable
behind
the
rear
seat.
44.3
(70)
T
urning
radius.
a.
A
chassis
with
a
wheelbase
of
264
inches
or
less
will
have
a
right
and
left
turning
radius
of
not
more
than
42½
feet,
curb-to-curb
measurement.
b.
A
chassis
with
a
wheelbase
of
265
inches
or
more
will
have
a
right
and
left
turning
radius
of
not
more
than
44½
feet,
curb-to-curb
measurement.
44.3
(71)
Under
coating.
a.
The
entire
underside
of
the
bus
body
,
including
floor
sections,
cross
member
and
below
floor
line
side
panels,
and
chassis
front
fenders
will
be
coated
with
rustproofing
material
for
which
the
material
manufacturer
has
issued
to
the
bus
body
manufacturer
a
notarized
certification
that
materials
meet
or
exceed
all
performance
standards
of
SAE
J1959,
Sept.
2003
Edition.
b.
Undercoating
material
will
be
applied
with
suitable
airless
or
conventional
spray
equipment
to
the
undercoating
material
manufacturer
’
s
recommended
film
thickness
and
show
no
evidence
of
voids
in
cured
film.
c.
The
undercoating
material
will
not
cover
any
exhaust
components
of
the
chassis.
d.
If
chassis
is
built
as
a
separate
unit,
the
chassis
manufacturer
or
its
agents
are
responsible
for
providing
undercoating
to
the
chassis
areas.
44.3
(72)
V
andal
lock.
a.
The
school
bus
may
be
equipped
with
a
vandal
locking
system
for
securing
the
service
entrance,
emer
gency
,
and
wheelchair
lift
door(s).
b.
The
vandal
locking
system
will
include
the
following
design
features:
(1)
The
entrance
door
is
to
be
locked
by
an
exterior
key
with
a
dead
bolt,
a
remote
control
(cable)
device
or
an
electric
device.
The
system
is
to
prevent
the
door
from
being
accidentally
locked
by
any
motion
the
bus
may
encounter
during
its
normal
operation.
This
provision
does
not
apply
to
T
ype
A
vehicles
with
a
left-side
driver
’
s
door
.
(2)
When
the
bus
is
equipped
with
a
rear
-mounted
engine,
the
emer
gency
door
and
rear
emer
gency
exit
window
are
to
be
locked
by
an
interior
slide
bolt
that
will
activate
a
buzzer
when
the
door
or
emer
gency
exit
window
is
locked
and
the
ignition
of
the
bus
is
turned
on.
The
locking
mechanism
is
to
be
capable
of
being
locked
or
unlocked
without
the
use
of
a
separate
key
or
other
similar
device.
(3)
The
engine
starting
system
of
the
bus
will
not
operate
if
the
rear
or
side
emer
gency
door
or
rear
emer
gency
exit
window
over
the
rear
engine
compartment
is
locked
from
either
the
inside
or
outside
of
the
bus.
(4)
Hasp-type
devices
is
not
to
be
attached
to
the
bus
for
the
purpose
of
securing
any
door
or
window
.
44.3
(73)
V
entilation.
a.
The
body
ventilation
system
on
T
ype
A,
B,
C
and
D
buses
will
include
one
or
more
combination
roof
ventilation/emer
gency
escape
hatches
in
accordance
with
subrule
44.3(14)
.
The
ventilation
system
will
be
capable
of
being
controlled
and
have
suf
ficient
capacity
to
maintain
a
proper
quantity
of
air
under
operating
conditions
without
the
opening
of
windows
except
in
extremely
warm
weather
.
b.
Each
combination
roof
ventilation/emer
gency
escape
hatch
will
be
installed
by
the
school
bus
body
manufacturer
or
the
body
manufacturer
’
s
approved
representative
and
will
have
the
following
design
and
installation
features:
(1)
Multiposition
fresh
air
ventilation.
29
(2)
Release
handle(s)
permitting
operation
as
an
emer
gency
exit(s),
accessible
inside
and
outside
the
vehicle.
(3)
An
audible
warning
system
that
sounds
an
alarm
in
the
driver
’
s
compartment
area
when
the
emer
gency
roof
hatch
is
unlatched
will
be
installed
as
a
design
feature
by
the
manufacturer
.
(4)
When
more
than
one
ventilation/emer
gency
roof
hatch
is
necessary
,
one
will
be
installed
forward
of
the
intersection
of
the
horizontal
and
longitudinal
midpoints
of
the
bus
in
a
low-pressure
area
of
the
roof.
The
second
unit
will
be
installed
on
the
roof
in
a
location
behind
the
rear
axle.
When
only
one
ventilation/emer
gency
roof
hatch
is
necessary
,
it
will
be
installed
in
a
low-pressure
area
of
the
roof
at
or
near
the
longitudinal
midpoint
of
the
bus.
(5)
V
entilation/emer
gency
escape
hatches
may
include
static-type
nonclosable
ventilation.
c.
Auxiliary
fans
will
be
installed
and
meet
the
following
provisions:
(1)
T
wo
adjustable
fans
will
be
installed
on
T
ype
B,
C
and
D
buses.
Fans
for
left
and
right
sides
will
be
placed
in
a
location
where
they
can
be
adjusted
for
maximum
ef
fectiveness
and
do
not
obstruct
vision
to
any
mirror
.
(2)
Fans
will
be
a
nominal
6-inch
diameter
except
where
noted
below
.
(3)
Fan
blades
are
to
be
covered
with
a
protective
cage.
Each
fan
will
be
controlled
by
a
separate
switch
capable
of
two-speed
operation.
(4)
T
ype
A
buses
will
have
at
least
one
fan
that
has
a
nominal
diameter
of
at
least
4
inches
and
meets
the
above
requirements.
44.3
(74)
Wheelhousings.
a.
The
wheelhousing
will
be
attached
to
the
floor
sheets
in
such
a
manner
as
to
prevent
any
dust,
water
or
fumes
from
entering
the
bus
body
.
Wheelhousings
will
be
constructed
of
at
least
16-gauge
steel
or
other
material
capable
of
withstanding
passenger
or
other
expected
loads
applied
internally
or
externally
without
deformation.
b.
The
inside
height
of
the
wheelhousing
above
the
floor
line
will
not
exceed
12
inches.
c.
The
wheelhousing
will
provide
clearance
for
installation
and
use
of
tire
chains
on
single
and
dual
(if
so
equipped)
power
-driving
wheels.
44.3
(75)
W
indshield
and
windows.
a.
All
glass
in
windshield,
windows,
and
doors
will
be
of
approved
safety
glass
consistent
with
American
National
Standard,
Safety
Code
for
Safety
Glazing
Materials
for
Glazing
Motor
V
ehicles
Operating
on
Land
Highways,
ANSI/SAE
Z-26.1-1990,
mounted
so
the
permanent
mark
is
visible,
and
of
suf
ficient
quality
to
prevent
distortion
of
view
in
any
direction.
b.
Glass
in
windshields
may
be
heat-absorbing
and
may
contain
a
shaded
band
across
the
top.
Location
of
“fade
out”
will
be
above
the
upper
limit
for
maximum
visibility
.
c.
Each
full
side
window
,
other
than
emer
gency
exits
designated
to
comply
with
FMVSS
No.
217,
will
be
split-sash
type
and
provide
an
unobstructed
emer
gency
opening
of
at
least
9
inches
high,
but
not
more
than
13
inches
high,
and
22
inches
wide,
obtained
by
lowering
the
window
.
When
the
driver
’
s
window
consists
of
two
sections,
both
sections
will
be
capable
of
being
moved
or
opened.
d.
The
school
bus
body
manufacturer
may
design
and
install
a
protective
device
over
the
inside,
lower
window
glass
of
a
rear
emer
gency
door
to
protect
it
from
being
damaged
or
broken
during
normal
operation.
The
protective
device
will
be
securely
mounted
by
the
manufacturer
,
be
free
of
projections
that
might
harm
passengers,
and
permit
visibility
through
the
device
to
the
area
outside
and
to
the
rear
of
the
bus.
e.
T
inted
glazing
capable
of
reducing
the
amount
of
light
passing
through
a
window
may
be
installed
consistent
with
rules
established
by
the
department
of
public
safety
relating
to
automotive
window
transparency
standards,
except
that
the
following
windows
shall
be
of
AS-II
clear
glass
rating:
(1)
All
glass
to
the
immediate
left
of
the
driver
.
(2)
All
glass
forward
of
the
driver
and
service
door
.
(3)
All
glass
in
the
service
entrance
door
.
44.3
(76)
W
indshield
washer
system.
30
a.
All
buses
will
be
equipped
with
electric
wet-arm
windshield
washers
that
conform
to
the
body
manufacturer
’
s
recommendation
as
to
type
and
size
for
the
bus
on
which
they
are
to
be
used.
The
windshield
washer
system
on
T
ype
A
and
A-2
vehicles
may
be
of
the
manufacturer
’
s
standard
design.
b.
The
washer
control(s)
will
be
located
within
easy
reach
of
the
driver
.
44.3
(77)
W
indshield
wiper
system.
a.
For
T
ype
A
vehicles,
windshield
wipers
will
be
supplied
by
the
chassis
manufacturer
and
be
of
the
manufacturer
’
s
standard
design.
b.
T
ype
B,
C
and
D
buses
will
be
equipped
with
two
positive-action,
two-speed
or
variable-speed
electric
windshield
wipers.
W
indshield
wipers
will
have
an
intermittent
wiping
feature
and
be
operated
by
a
single
switch.
c.
The
wipers
will
be
operated
by
one
or
more
electric
motors
of
suf
ficient
power
to
operate
wipers.
If
one
motor
is
used,
the
wipers
will
work
in
tandem
to
give
a
full
sweep
of
the
windshield.
d.
W
iper
control(s)
will
be
located
within
easy
reach
of
the
driver
and
designed
to
move
the
blades
from
the
driver
’
s
view
when
the
wiper
control
is
in
the
“of
f”
position.
e.
W
indshield
wipers
will
meet
the
requirements
of
FMVSS
No.
104.
281—44.
4
(285)
Construction
of
vehicles
for
childr
en
with
mobility
disabilities.
The
following
apply
to
vehicles
constructed
for
the
transportation
of
children
with
mobility
disabilities
of
such
severity
that
the
children
are
unable
to
use
the
regular
service
door
entrance.
V
ehicles
constructed
for
transporting
these
children
will
meet
all
FMVSS
relating
to
school
bus
construction
and
Iowa
school
bus
construction
requirements
as
described
in
rules
281—44.1
(285)
and
281—44.3
(285).
The
following
standards
also
apply:
44.4
(1)
General
pr
ovisions.
a.
Certification
of
these
vehicles
as
multipurpose
passenger
vehicles
due
to
capacity
rating
do
not
relieve
the
manufacturer
of
the
responsibility
to
provide
a
completed
vehicle
meeting
all
FMVSS
for
school
buses
as
well
as
rules
281—44.1
(285)
through
281—44.3
(285)
relating
to
the
construction
of
a
school
bus.
b.
Alteration
of
the
interior
of
the
vehicle
is
permissible
if
all
seats
and
barriers,
component
parts,
anchorages,
wheelchair
securement
devices,
and
placement
of
seats
and
barriers
and
wheelchair
securement
devices
comply
with
federal
provisions
as
of
date
of
manufacture.
All
equipment
will
be
supplied
by
the
original
manufacturer
and
installed
per
the
original
manufacturer
’
s
specification.
Alteration
that
would
return
the
vehicle
to
conventional
passenger
seating
will
include
removal
of
all
wheelchair
securement
devices,
removal
of
the
power
lift,
and
rendering
the
special
service
door
inoperable.
c.
Any
school
bus
that
is
used
for
the
transportation
of
children
who
use
a
wheelchair
or
other
restraining
devices
that
prevent
use
of
the
regular
service
entrance
will
be
equipped
with
a
power
lift
located
on
the
right
side
of
the
bus
body
located
either
forward
of
or
behind
the
rear
wheels
on
a
T
ype
A,
B,
C,
or
D
bus.
d.
The
actual
rated
seating
capacity
following
modification
of
a
vehicle
will
be
placed
at
locations
indicated
in
paragraph
44.3(34)
“e.”
44.4
(2)
Specific
pr
ovisions.
a.
Aisle.
Aisles
leading
from
the
wheelchair
placements
to
the
special
service
door
and
either
the
service
door
or
one
30-inch
wide
emer
gency
door
will
be
a
minimum
of
30
inches
in
width.
(1)
Aisles
leading
from
wheelchair
placements
to
all
other
doors
will
be
at
least
20
inches
in
width.
(2)
A
wheelchair
securement
position
will
not
be
located
directly
in
front
of
a
power
lift
door
.
b.
Barriers.
(1)
Barriers
will
comply
with
and
be
installed
as
required
by
federal
standards
as
of
date
of
manufacture.
(2)
A
heavy-duty
padded
barrier
or
stanchion
will
be
provided
immediately
to
the
rear
of
the
step
well
opening
extending
from
the
side
wall
of
the
bus
to
approximately
the
aisle
to
prevent
a
person
from
accidentally
falling
into
the
step
well
opening
from
floor
level.
A
barrier
or
stanchion
as
mentioned
above
will
also
be
placed
directly
behind
the
driver
.
31
(3)
The
power
lift
mechanism
will
be
padded
and
protected
to
prevent
a
child
from
accidentally
getting
any
part
of
the
child’
s
body
caught
in
the
power
lift
mechanism
or
special
service
door
at
any
time.
(4)
All
crash/restraining
barriers
will
be
the
same
height
as
the
passenger
seating
height
in
the
bus.
c.
Glazing.
T
inted
glazing
may
be
installed
in
all
doors,
windows,
and
windshield.
d.
Heaters.
An
additional
heater(s)
may
be
installed
in
the
rear
portion
of
the
bus
on
or
behind
wheel
wells.
e.
Identification.
Buses
with
wheelchair
lifts
used
for
transporting
children
with
physical
disabilities
will
display
the
International
Symbol
of
Accessibility
located
on
the
front
and
rear
of
the
vehicle
below
the
window
line.
Emblems
will
be
white
on
blue,
shall
not
exceed
12
×
12
inches
in
size,
and
may
be
reflectorized.
f.
Power
lift.
(1)
The
power
lift
will
meet
all
FMVSS
and
ADA
requirements
at
the
time
of
manufacture.
(2)
The
power
lift
may
be
located
either
forward
of
or
behind
the
rear
wheels
of
the
vehicle
on
the
right
side
of
T
ype
A,
B,
C
and
D
buses.
(3)
All
lift
controls
will
be
portable
and
conveniently
located
on
the
inside
of
the
bus
near
the
special
service
door
opening.
Controls
will
be
easily
operable
from
inside
or
outside
the
bus.
A
master
cut-of
f
switch
controlling
on/of
f
power
to
the
lift
will
be
located
in
the
driver
’
s
compartment.
There
will
be
a
means
of
preventing
the
lift
platform
from
falling
while
in
operation
due
to
a
power
failure.
(4)
Power
lifts
will
be
equipped
so
they
may
be
manually
raised
or
lowered
in
the
event
of
power
failure
of
the
power
lift
mechanism.
(5)
All
edges
of
the
platform
will
be
designed
to
restrain
a
wheelchair
and
to
prevent
the
operator
’
s
feet
from
being
entangled
during
the
raising
and
lowering
process.
(6)
A
circuit
breaker
,
fuse,
or
other
electrical
protection
device
will
be
installed
between
the
power
source
and
the
lift
motor
if
electrical
power
is
used.
(7)
When
hydraulic
pressure
is
used
in
the
lifting
process,
the
system
will
be
equipped
with
adjustable
limit
switches
or
bypass
valves
to
prevent
excessive
pressure
from
building
in
the
hydraulic
system
when
the
platform
reaches
the
full
“up”
position
or
full
“down”
position.
(8)
All
exposed
parts
of
the
power
lift
that
are
in
direct
line
with
the
forward
or
rearward
travel
of
a
wheelchair
student
or
attendant
will
be
padded
with
ener
gy-absorbing
material.
(9)
Power
lifts
are
not
allowed
on
vehicles
with
single
rear
wheels.
g.
Ramps.
Ramps
are
not
permitted
on
T
ype
A,
B,
C,
and
D
buses.
h.
Regular
service
entrance.
(1)
An
additional
fold-out
or
slide-out
step
may
be
provided
that
will
provide
for
the
step
level
to
be
no
more
than
6
inches
from
the
ground
level
to
assist
persons
with
disabilities
that
prohibit
the
use
of
the
standard
entrance
step.
This
step,
when
stored
and
not
in
use,
will
not
impede
or
in
any
way
block
the
normal
use
of
the
entrance.
(2)
On
power
lift-equipped
vehicles,
service
entrance
steps
will
be
the
full
width
of
the
step
well,
excluding
the
thickness
of
the
doors
in
the
open
position.
(3)
In
addition
to
the
standard
handrail
required
in
all
buses,
an
additional
handrail
may
be
provided
on
all
specially
equipped
school
buses.
If
so
equipped,
this
rail
will
be
located
on
the
opposite
side
of
the
entrance
door
from
the
required
rail
and
will
meet
the
same
provisions
for
handrails.
i.
Seating
and
seating
arrangements.
(1)
All
seat
spacing,
seats,
and
related
components
will
comply
with
applicable
federal
standards
as
of
date
of
manufacture.
(2)
All
seats
are
to
be
forward
facing.
Side-facing
seats
are
prohibited.
(3)
Seat
frames
may
be
equipped
by
the
school
bus
body
manufacturer
with
rings
or
other
devices
to
which
passenger
restraint
systems
may
be
attached.
j.
Special
light.
Light(s)
will
be
placed
inside
the
bus
to
suf
ficiently
illuminate
the
lift
area
and
activated
from
the
door
area.
k.
Special
service
opening.
32
(1)
There
will
be
an
enclosed
service
opening
located
on
the
right
side
(curb
side)
of
the
body
to
accommodate
a
wheelchair
lift
on
T
ype
A,
B,
C
and
D
buses.
(2)
The
opening
will
be
at
least
52
inches
high
and
40
inches
wide
and
with
doors
open
will
be
of
suf
ficient
width
to
allow
for
the
installation
of
various
power
lifts
and
related
accessories
as
well
as
a
lifting
platform
at
least
32
inches
wide.
(3)
The
opening
will
be
positioned
far
enough
to
the
rear
of
the
regular
service
door
opening
to
prevent
interference
of
the
special
service
door(s)
opening
with
the
regular
service
doors.
(4)
A
drip
molding
will
be
installed
above
the
opening
to
ef
fectively
divert
water
from
the
entrance.
(5)
Doorposts,
headers,
and
all
floor
sections
around
this
special
opening
will
be
reinforced
to
provide
strength
and
support
equivalent
to
adjacent
side
wall
and
floor
construction
of
an
unaltered
model.
(6)
A
header
pad
at
least
3
inches
wide,
extending
the
width
of
special
service
door
,
will
be
placed
above
the
opening
on
the
inside
of
the
bus.
l.
Special
service
door(s).
(1)
All
doors
will
open
outwardly
.
(2)
All
doors
will
have
positive
fastening
devices
to
hold
doors
in
the
open
position.
(3)
All
doors
will
be
equipped
with
heavy-duty
hinges
and
will
be
hinged
to
the
side
of
the
bus.
(4)
All
doors
will
be
weather
sealed;
and
on
buses
with
double
doors,
each
door
will
be
of
the
same
size
and
constructed
so
a
flange
on
the
forward
door
overlaps
the
edge
of
the
rear
door
when
closed.
(5)
If
optional
power
doors
are
installed,
the
design
will
permit
release
of
the
doors
for
opening
and
closing
by
the
attendant
from
the
platform
inside
the
bus.
(6)
When
manually
operated
dual
doors
are
provided,
the
rear
door
will
have
at
least
a
one-point
fastening
device
to
the
header
.
The
forward-mounted
door
will
have
at
least
three-point
fastening
devices:
One
will
be
to
the
header
,
one
will
be
to
the
floor
line
of
the
body
,
and
the
other
will
be
into
the
rear
door
.
These
locking
devices
will
af
ford
maximum
safety
when
the
doors
are
in
the
closed
position.
The
door
and
hinge
mechanism
is
to
be
of
a
strength
that
will
provide
the
same
type
of
use
as
that
of
a
standard
entrance
door
.
(7)
If
the
door
is
made
of
one-piece
construction,
the
door
will
be
equipped
with
a
slidebar
,
cam-operated
locking
device.
(8)
Each
door
will
have
installed
a
safety
glass
window
,
set
in
a
waterproof
manner
,
and
aligned
with
the
lower
line
of
adjacent
sash
and
as
nearly
as
practical
to
the
same
size
as
other
bus
windows.
(9)
Door
materials,
panels,
and
structural
strength
will
be
equivalent
to
the
conventional
service
and
emer
gency
doors.
Color
,
rub
rail
extensions,
lettering,
and
other
exterior
features
will
match
adjacent
sections
of
the
body
.
(10)
The
door(s)
will
be
equipped
with
a
device(s)
that
will
actuate
a
flashing
visible
signal
located
in
the
driver
’
s
compartment
when
the
door(s)
is
not
securely
closed.
(An
audible
signal
is
not
permitted.)
m.
Special
student
r
estraining
devices.
(1)
Each
wheelchair
station
will
be
equipped
with
a
lap
and
torso
restraint
system
that
meets
applicable
FMVSS.
(2)
Special
restraining
devices
such
as
shoulder
harnesses,
lap
belts,
and
chest
restraint
systems
may
be
installed
to
the
seats
providing
that
the
devices
do
not
require
the
alteration
in
any
form
of
the
school
bus
seat,
seat
cushion,
framework,
or
related
seat
components.
These
restraints
are
for
the
sole
purpose
of
restraining
passengers.
(3)
All
child
safety
restraint
systems
will
comply
with
the
requirements
of
FMVSS
No.
213,
Child
Restraint
Systems.
n.
Wheelchair
secur
ement
systems.
(1)
Securement
systems
for
wheelchairs
will
meet
or
exceed
applicable
FMVSS.
(2)
All
wheelchair
securement
systems
or
devices
will
be
placed
in
the
vehicle
so
that,
when
secured,
both
wheelchair
and
occupant
are
facing
toward
the
front
of
the
vehicle.
Fastening
devices
resulting
in
a
side-facing
wheelchair
and
occupant
are
not
permissible.
(3)
Straps
or
seat-belt
devices
running
through
the
wheels
of
the
wheelchair
or
around
the
student
seated
in
the
wheelchair
for
the
purpose
of
securing
the
wheelchair
to
the
floor
are
not
acceptable.
33
(4)
The
wheelchair
securement
system(s)
will
be
located
in
a
school
bus
so
that
when
a
wheelchair
is
not
secured
in
place
the
floor
attachment
system
does
not
extend
above
the
floor
level
more
than
½
inch.
281—44.
5
(285)
T
ype
III
vehicles.
44.5
(1)
General
information.
These
vehicles
may
be
used
for
student
transportation
in
accordance
with
the
following
general
provisions:
a.
The
vehicle
will
be
an
OEM
product
and
manufactured
as
a
family-type
or
multipurpose
passenger
vehicle
(MPV).
V
ehicles
used
exclusively
for
driver
’
s
education
are
exempt
from
these
provisions.
b.
The
manufacturer
’
s
rated
capacity
of
this
vehicle,
which
is
determined
only
by
the
OEM
on
the
date
of
manufacture,
will
not
exceed
12
persons
including
the
driver
.
The
capacity
rating
may
not
be
changed
or
modified
except
by
the
OEM,
dealer
,
or
remanufacturer
.
Secondary
stage
or
vehicle
conversion
manufacturers
will
not
establish
vehicle
capacity
.
Seating
capacities
that
vary
from
the
OEM
are
required
by
NHTSA
to
be
identified
by
an
alterer
’
s
certification
and
information
label
that
shall
be
af
fixed
to
the
frame
of
the
driver
’
s
door
.
(1)
V
ehicles
with
a
capacity
of
ten
or
fewer
passengers
including
the
driver
may
be
acquired
new
or
used.
(2)
V
ehicles
with
a
capacity
of
1
1
or
12
passengers,
including
the
driver
,
may
only
be
acquired
used.
For
purposes
of
this
subrule,
“used”
means
a
vehicle
that
has
had
a
title
transfer
from
a
dealer
to
one
or
more
previous
retail
owners.
c.
Alteration
of
a
vehicle,
following
manufacture
by
the
OEM,
is
prohibited.
This
includes
the
addition
or
removal
of
seats,
wheelchair
securement
devices,
and
power
lifts.
Ramps
are
allowed
on
the
passenger
side
of
the
vehicle
only
and
will
comply
with
all
applicable
FMVSS
and
ADA
requirements.
The
following
exceptions
apply:
(1)
OEM
options
or
other
manufacturer
’
s
accessories
not
in
violation
of
these
standards
may
be
installed.
(2)
Seats
may
be
added
or
removed
as
long
as
the
seating
capacity
does
not
exceed
the
capacity
as
certified
by
the
OEM
or
on
the
label
installed
according
to
paragraph
44.5(1)
“b.”
d.
The
vehicle
will
not
carry
more
passengers
than
there
are
seat
belts
as
installed
by
the
manufacturer
.
e.
The
vehicle
will
not
be
painted
the
color
known
as
National
School
Bus
Glossy
Y
ellow
.
f.
The
vehicle
will
not
be
equipped
with
a
stop
arm
or
flashing
warning
signal
lamps.
g.
This
vehicle
will
load
and
unload
students
of
f
the
traveled
portion
of
the
roadway
.
44.5
(2)
Special
equipment.
a.
Interior
liner
.
An
interior
liner
that
covers
all
exposed
ceiling
girders,
sidewall
posts,
or
other
structural
projections
is
to
be
provided
and
installed
by
the
manufacturer
.
b.
The
vehicle,
while
transporting
students
to
and
from
school,
will
display
a
sign,
visible
to
the
rear
,
with
the
words
“SCHOOL
BUS.”
The
sign
will
be
National
School
Bus
Glossy
Y
ellow
with
black
letters
6
inches
high.
The
sign
will
be
a
type
that
can
be
removed,
dismounted,
or
covered
when
the
vehicle
is
not
transporting
pupils
to
and
from
school.
c.
A
sign
with
the
words
“THIS
VEHICLE
ST
OPS
A
T
ALL
RAILROAD
CROSSINGS,”
visible
to
the
rear
,
may
be
used
where
appropriate
and
not
in
conflict
with
current
statutes.
If
used,
the
words
will
be
black
letters
on
a
yellow
background.
The
sign
will
be
of
a
type
that
can
be
dismounted,
turned
down,
or
covered
when
the
vehicle
is
not
transporting
pupils
to
and
from
school.
d.
Special
brake
lamps.
The
vehicle
may
be
equipped
with
two
roof-mounted
lights
not
greater
than
4
inches
in
diameter
and
positioned
horizontally
on
the
roof
at
least
36
inches
apart.
The
lights
will
be
connected
to
the
brake
lamp
circuit
of
the
vehicle’
s
electrical
system
and
will
operate
only
when
the
brakes
are
applied.
When
lit,
the
lamps
will
be
red
and
visible
only
to
the
rear
.
e.
First
aid
kit.
A
first
aid
kit
meeting
the
national
recommendations
(most
current
National
School
T
ransportation
Specifications
and
Procedures
Manual—first
aid
kit)
is
required
on
all
vehicles
used
for
student
transportation.
34
f.
Fire
extinguisher
.
The
vehicle
will
carry
a
dry
chemical
fire
extinguisher
of
at
least
2½-pound
capacity
with
a
rating
of
2A-10BC.
The
extinguisher
will
be
equipped
with
a
calibrated
or
marked
gauge.
Plastic
dischar
ge
heads
and
related
parts
are
not
acceptable.
g.
Each
vehicle
will
be
equipped
with
a
durable
webbing
cutter
having
a
full-width
handgrip
and
a
protected,
replaceable
or
noncorrodible
blade.
This
device
will
be
mounted
in
a
location
accessible
to
the
seated
driver
in
an
easily
detachable
manner
.
h.
Each
vehicle
will
be
equipped
with
a
body
fluid
cleanup
kit.
i.
Each
vehicle
will
be
equipped
with
a
backup
alarm
beeper
capable
of
a
minimum
of
1
12
db.
N
OTE
:
This
is
ef
fective
for
2007
model
year
vehicles
and
newer
.
j.
T
railer
hitches
are
allowed
on
T
ype
III
vehicles
in
accordance
with
the
manufacturer
’
s
rated
towing
capacity
.
Students
are
not
allowed
to
be
transported
in
the
vehicle
when
the
vehicle
is
being
used
to
tow
.
44.5
(3)
Applicability
of
standar
ds.
The
above
standards
apply
to
all
vehicles
(except
as
noted
in
paragraph
44.5(2)
“i”
)
of
this
type
and
those
currently
in
service
used
to
transport
students.
281—44.
6
(285)
Repair
,
r
eplacement
of
school
bus
body
and
chassis
components
following
original
equipment
manufactur
e.
44.6
(1)
Body
and
chassis
r
epair
following
an
accident.
a.
A
school
bus
that
has
been
involved
in
an
accident
in
which
there
is
damage
to
the
body
or
chassis
components
may
be
repaired
to
the
extent
that
such
repair
is
possible
and
that
the
damaged
component
can
be
returned
to
the
OEM’
s
specification
and
function.
b.
The
individual
or
company
making
the
repairs
is
to
certify
to
the
vehicle’
s
owner
that
all
repairs
have
been
made
in
accordance
with
the
original
vehicle
or
component
manufacturer
’
s
recommendations
using
OEM’
s
materials
and
parts,
or
their
guaranteed
equal.
c.
Repairs
are
not
to
cause
the
vehicle
to
no
longer
comply
with
any
FMVSS
in
ef
fect
and
applicable
at
the
time
the
vehicle
or
component
was
manufactured.
44.6
(2)
New
technology
and
equipment
appr
oval
pr
ocedur
e.
It
is
the
intent
of
these
rules
to
accommodate
new
technologies
and
equipment
that
will
better
facilitate
the
transportation
of
students
to
and
from
school
and
related
activities.
A
new
technology
,
piece
of
equipment
or
component
that
meets
the
following
criteria
may
be
adopted
under
the
following
conditions
pending
formal
rule
adoption:
a.
The
technology
,
equipment
or
component
will
not
compromise
the
ef
fectiveness
or
integrity
of
any
major
safety
system,
unless
it
completely
replaces
the
system.
b.
It
will
not
diminish
the
safe
environment
of
the
interior
of
the
bus.
c.
It
will
not
create
additional
risk
to
students
who
are
boarding
or
exiting
the
bus
or
are
in
or
near
the
school
bus
loading
zone.
d.
It
will
not
create
undue
additional
activity
or
responsibility
for
the
driver
.
e.
It
will
not
generally
decrease
the
safety
or
ef
ficiency
of
the
bus.
f.
It
will
generally
provide
for
a
safer
or
more
pleasant
experience
for
the
occupants
and
pedestrians
in
the
vicinity
of
the
bus
or
generally
assist
the
driver
or
make
the
driver
’
s
many
tasks
easier
to
perform.
g.
A
pilot
test
for
the
purpose
of
evaluating
the
performance
of
the
new
technology
,
product
or
vehicle
component
may
be
conducted
at
the
direction
of
the
school
transportation
consultant
with
the
approval
of
the
director
of
the
department
of
education.
The
pilot
test
will
include
a
minimum
of
five,
but
not
more
than
ten,
applications
of
the
technology
,
product
or
component
at
locations
and
over
a
period
of
time
to
be
mutually
agreed
upon
by
the
department
and
the
manufacturer
of
the
product.
h.
The
cost
of
the
technology
,
product
or
vehicle
component
and
its
installation
is
the
responsibility
of
the
manufacturer
unless
other
arrangements
are
made
prior
to
testing
or
evaluation.
i.
An
evaluation
of
the
product’
s
performance
shall
be
conducted
by
department
staf
f,
and
if
the
product
is
determined
to
meet
the
criteria
listed
in
paragraphs
44.6(2)
“a”
to
“f,”
measures
will
be
taken
as
soon
as
practicable
to
formally
approve
the
product.
j.
A
technology
,
product
or
component
not
recommended
for
approval
by
the
department
will
immediately
be
removed
from
vehicles
upon
which
pilot
tests
were
being
conducted;
and
its
use
will
be
35
discontinued
by
schools
or
individuals
serving
as
pilot
test
sites,
upon
receipt
of
written
notice
from
the
department
of
education.
These
rules
are
intended
to
implement
Iowa
Code
sections
285.8
and
321.373
.
36