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Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Section Trans 300.02 - Definitions

Current through June 24, 2024
In this chapter:
(1)
			 "Attended" means the driver is in the immediate area of the school bus service
			 door or, in the case of a bus equipped with a power lift, the driver is
			 assisting an individual with disabilities to board or exit.
(1m) "Department" means the department of
			 transportation.
(2) "Driver's
			 compartment" means the area forward of the rearmost portion of the driver's
			 seat across the entire width of the bus.
(2m) "FMVSS" means federal motor vehicle
			 safety standard.
(3) "GAWR" means
			 the gross axle weight rating.
(4)
			 "GVWR" means the gross vehicle weight rating.
(4g) "Lights" or "lamps" mean devices that
			 emit light, either to illuminate roads, license plates and similar items, or to
			 warn motorists and the public of the presence of a school bus and the need for
			 due care. In this chapter, both terms have the same meaning and may be used
			 interchangeably.
(4m) "Rebody"
			 means the placing of a new or replacement school bus body on a
			 previously-licensed school bus chassis.
(5) "SAE" means the society of automotive
			 engineers.
(6)
(a) "School bus" or "bus" means a passenger
			 motor vehicle which is designed to carry 10 or more passengers in addition to
			 the driver, is painted in accordance with s.
			 347.44(1),
			 Stats., and transports persons as described in s.
			 340.01(56) (a) and
			 (am), Stats. A school bus may be classed as
			 one of the following types:
1. A type "A"
			 school bus is a conversion or body constructed upon a van-type or cutaway
			 front-section vehicle with a left side driver's door, designed for carrying
			 more than 10 persons. This definition shall include the following 2
			 classifications:
a. Type A-I, with a GVWR over
			 10,000 pounds.
b. Type A-II, with a
			 GVWR of 10,000 pounds and under.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter I - Purchasing and Operating Requirements › Section Trans 300.10 - Manufacturer

Current through June 24, 2024
It is the vehicle manufacturer and the school bus body
				  manufacturer's responsibility to manufacture a school bus in compliance with
				  all federal and state standards applicable to the manufacturer of school buses.
				  The vehicle manufacturer shall provide copies of all equipment recalls to the
				  administrator, Wisconsin division of state patrol, to assure appropriate
				  repairs are made.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter I - Purchasing and Operating Requirements › Section Trans 300.11 - Dealer

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) It is the chassis dealer's responsibility
				to furnish a motor vehicle chassis that is to be combined with a school bus
				body which meets the applicable state standards that relate to chassis
				components. The chassis dealer is the statutory owner of the school
				bus.
(2) General practice through
				the years has made the school bus body distributor the person who actually
				delivers the school bus to the purchaser. The presale inspection shall be the
				responsibility of the dealer or the distributor delivering the school bus to
				the purchaser.
(3) The dealer or
				distributor that is required to secure the presale inspection shall be clearly
				indicated on the purchase order.
(4) The dealer shall assure that copies of
				all equipment recalls are provided to the division of state patrol.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter I - Purchasing and Operating Requirements › Section Trans 300.12 - Distributor

Current through June 24, 2024
The school bus body distributor acts as an agent of the final
				  assembler of the school bus. The distributor is the agent that may arrange for
				  the presale inspection of the school bus. If the purchaser wishes to arrange
				  for the presale inspection, this shall clearly be stated on the purchase order.
				  The distributor shall furnish a school bus body which meets the applicable
				  state standards that relate to body components. The distributor or owner who
				  furnishes a rebody shall arrange for the initial inspection prior to its use as
				  a school bus.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter I - Purchasing and Operating Requirements › Section Trans 300.13 - Purchaser

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Any person intending to purchase a motor
				vehicle to be used as a school bus shall provide the seller with a written
				notice of such intent prior to the signing of the purchase order. A notation on
				the purchase order shall fulfill this requirement.
(2) Any person intending to purchase a school
				bus body to be combined with a motor vehicle chassis to form a body-on-chassis
				type school bus shall provide the seller or distributor with a written notice
				of such intent prior to the signing of the purchase order. A notation on the
				purchase order shall fulfill this requirement.
(3) Any person purchasing a school bus may
				not use the vehicle for any pupil transportation unless the bus has been
				inspected by the department and approved for use as a school bus in Wisconsin.
				This may not preclude such use if items needing correction or alteration after
				the initial inspection are of a nature that would not affect safe
				transportation of students. The inspecting officer shall advise the owner if a
				new bus may be used while the items not in compliance are being
				corrected.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter I - Purchasing and Operating Requirements › Section Trans 300.15 - Employer requirements

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Each employer of school bus drivers shall
				be responsible to determine that only qualified personnel operate school buses
				according to safe practices and that each bus is qualified for pupil
				transportation.
(2) The operator or
				owner of a school bus shall have a maintenance record file for each school bus.
				The maintenance record file shall be kept at the principal repair facility used
				for the bus. If the bus owner does not operate a repair facility, the record
				file shall be kept current at another location accessible for inspection. The
				record file shall be maintained for the life of the bus and shall contain:
(a) Identification of the bus including make,
				model, vehicle identification number, and fleet number.
(b) A record of repairs performed including
				the date and nature of repair.
(c) A
				record of the lubrication and preventive maintenance performed including date
				and nature of maintenance.
(d) The
				initial pre-sale inspection and a copy of the latest inspection performed by
				state employees.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter I - Purchasing and Operating Requirements › Section Trans 300.18 - Out of service

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Any bus that is found to be in such
				condition that it is unsafe for use as a school bus shall have an "out of
				service" sticker attached to the lower right corner of the windshield, and the
				vehicle may not be used as a school bus while the sticker is
				displayed.
(2) A vehicle with an
				"out of service" sticker displayed shall be reinspected by and shall have the
				sticker removed by an employee of the division of state patrol or authorized
				agent of the carrier at the direction of the division of state patrol employee
				prior to reuse as a school bus.
(3)
				It shall be illegal for any person other than an agent of the department to
				remove, conceal or obstruct an "out of service" sticker unless the vehicle:
(a) Has the base school bus registration
				removed.
(b) Is re-registered in
				such a manner as to prohibit its use as a school bus.
(c) Is converted to meet the requirements of
				s.
				Trans
				300.19.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter I - Purchasing and Operating Requirements › Section Trans 300.19 - Requirements to convert a school bus

Current through June 24, 2024
The owner of every vehicle identified as a school bus by
				  color, signs, and lights which is converted from a school bus to some other
				  type of vehicle shall comply with the following requirements:
(1) Repaint the entire vehicle to a color
				other than glossy yellow or any color commonly referred to as yellow.
(2) Physically remove the flashing red lights
				from the vehicle; the mere disconnection, covering or repainting of the
				flashing red lights does not comply with this requirement.
(3) Remove the stop signal arm.
(4) Remove any sign identifying the vehicle
				as a school bus.
(5) Remove the
				crossing gate.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter I - Purchasing and Operating Requirements › Section Trans 300.20 - Adoption of standards

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Pursuant to s.
				227.21,
				Stats., the attorney general and the legislative reference bureau have
				consented to the incorporation by reference of the following standards.
(a)
SAE J579c-sealed beam headlamp
				units for motor vehicles.
SAE standard approved January 1940 and last
				revised by the lighting committee December 1984.
(b)
SAE J585e-tail lamps (rear
				position lamps).
SAE standard approved March 1918 and last revised by
				the lighting committee March 1986.
(c)
SAE J586 Feb 84-stop
				lamps.
SAE standard approved February 1927, completely revised by the
				lighting committee December 1989.
(d)
SAE J587 Oct 81-license plate
				lamps.
SAE standard approved March 1918 and last revised by the
				lighting committee August 1985.
(e)
SAE J588f-turn signal lamps.
SAE standard approved February
				1927 and last revised by the lighting committee June 1991.
(f)
SAE J592 Jan 84-clearance, side
				marker, and identification lamps.
SAE standard approved January 1937
				and last revised by the lighting committee March 1990.
(g)
SAE J593e-backup lamps.
SAE standard approved August 1947 and last revised June 1989.
(h)
SAE J887 May 82-school bus
				warning lamps.
SAE standard approved July 1964 and completely revised
				August 1987.
(i)
SAE
				J914b-side turn signal lamps.
SAE recommended practice approved
				February 1965 and last revised November 1989.
(j)
SAE J1133 April 84-school bus
				stop arm.
Report of the lighting committee, approved April 1976,
				completely revised July 1989.
(k)
Federal regulations adopted.
The federal regulations in title
				49, Code of Federal Regulations, part 393, parts and accessories necessary for
				safe operation, and part 571, motor vehicle safety standards, adopted by the
				United States department of transportation and in effect on October 1, 1996
				shall be enforced in relation to a school bus under this chapter as though the
				regulations were set out in full in this chapter.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter I - Purchasing and Operating Requirements › Section Trans 300.21 - Rebody requirements

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) A school bus may be upgraded by the
				installation of a new body on an older chassis. This product will be known as a
				rebody school bus.
(2) A chassis
				provided for a rebody shall be currently titled and licensed as a school bus in
				Wisconsin.
(3) Proof shall be
				presented to the school bus body distributor that all chassis defects from the
				previous inspection have been corrected.
(4) The following items shall have been
				replaced with new or rebuilt parts within 12 months prior to the time of
				rebody:
(a) All brake lines replaced with
				steel or stainless steel lines and all brake hoses replaced.
(b) Hydrovac and related lines.
(c) Vacuum tanks.
(d) Shock absorbers.
(e) If air equipped, all tanks, lines,
				diaphragms, and valves.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter I - Purchasing and Operating Requirements › Section Trans 300.22 - Charter operations

Current through June 24, 2024
A school bus may be used temporarily as a motor bus for
				  transportation purposes if the following requirements are met:
(1) The registration requirements as provided
				in s.
				341.26(7),
				Stats.
(2) The lettering as
				prescribed by s.
				347.44(1)
				(c), Stats., is covered or removed. This may
				be accomplished by substituting the word "charter" for "school." This
				subsection does not apply when transporting children for any purpose under s.
				346.48(2)
				(c), Stats.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.25 - Aisle

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Every type A-I, B, C or D school bus or
				type A-II school bus manufactured in 2 stages, shall have a center aisle with a
				minimum clearance 12 inches wide. The center aisle shall be the open area which
				pupils entering the service door utilize to gain access to their seats. The
				center aisle shall extend from the driver's compartment to the emergency exit
				at the rear of the bus. The school bus that has a side emergency door shall, in
				addition, have a 12-inch wide aisle from the center aisle to the side emergency
				door. The intent of this requirement is to provide a 12-inch wide, unrestricted
				aisle to any emergency door.
(2) An
				open area for wheelchairs is not an aisle.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.26 - Alternator, generator

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) The alternator or generator shall have a
				capacity that meets or exceeds the minimum requirement for the reserve capacity
				rating of the battery.
(2) A school
				bus of more than 15,000 pounds GVWR shall be equipped with an alternator or
				generator of at least 100 ampere rating.
(3) A school bus of 15,000 pounds GVWR or
				less but more than 10,000 pounds GVWR shall be equipped with an alternator or
				generator of at least 80 ampere rating.
(4) A type A-II school bus shall be equipped
				with an alternator or generator of at least 60 ampere rating. If a school bus
				is equipped with a power lift, it shall be equipped with an 80 ampere or more
				rated alternator or generator.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.27 - Barriers

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Every type A-I, B, C or D school bus
				shall be equipped with a barrier forward of the foremost right and left front
				seats that complies with FMVSS 222, school bus seating and crash
				protection.
(2) A type A-II school
				bus manufactured in 2 stages shall be equipped with a barrier or a padded
				stanchion forward of the foremost right and left front seats. The barrier shall
				extend from the wall to the aisle. If a stanchion is utilized, the area
				immediately in front of the foremost seat shall be protected with a padded
				panel extending from no more than 4 inches above the floor to the crossbar. The
				stanchion bars shall be padded.
(3)
				If the bus meets any federal requirements relating to the use of seat belts,
				the bus shall, in addition, be equipped with barriers or stanchions as
				indicated in this section.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.29 - Battery carrier and connections

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) All batteries
				shall be securely attached in a manner to prevent dislocation in the event of
				an accident. The battery may be mounted in the engine compartment or, when
				mounted outside of the engine compartment, it shall be contained in a closed,
				drained, weather-tight and vented compartment which shall retain the battery in
				the event of upset or roll-over of the bus. If the battery is mounted in the
				body skirt, the battery compartment door or cover shall be secured by a latch.
				The battery may not be located in the passenger compartment.
(2) The cables to the battery may not be
				spliced.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.30 - Book racks

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Book racks, if installed, shall be
				located above the side windows. They may not extend forward of the foremost
				point of the front seat or across or above the rear emergency door.
(2) Book racks made of expanded, punched, or
				woven metal are not permitted.
(3)
				Book racks shall be free of projections or sharp edges.
(4) Book racks are permitted only in buses
				with a minimum of 726 head room.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.31 - Brakes

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Every school bus shall meet federal brake
				standards under
				49 CFR
				393.40 to
				393.52,
				396.17, and
				applicable standards under
				49 CFR
				571.105 and
				571.121,
				in effect at the time of manufacture. Each brake system including the parking
				brake shall be maintained in good working order. The brake system shall be free
				of any leaks. The lines and hoses may not be chafed, flattened or restricted in
				any way.
(2) A type A-I, B, C or D
				school bus that uses air assisted brakes shall be equipped with a low pressure
				warning system which functions at 60 psi and lower. The governor cut out
				pressure may not exceed 135 psi. The governor cut in pressure may not be lower
				than 80 psi.
(3) A type A-I, B, C
				or D school bus that uses vacuum assisted brakes shall be equipped with a low
				pressure warning system which functions when the vacuum is 8 inches of mercury
				and less.
(4) A type A-I, B, C or D
				school bus when equipped with air or vacuum assisted brakes shall be equipped
				with a reserve tank having a capacity of not less than 1,000 cubic inches to
				provide additional air or vacuum for the primary brake system. There shall be a
				check valve or pressure protective valve to protect the system from loss of air
				or vacuum. There shall be no accessory except the low pressure warning device
				operated from the air or vacuum reserve tank or its connecting lines. The low
				pressure warning system shall be installed to indicate the air pressure or
				vacuum in the tank. The gauge required to monitor this system shall be visible
				to the driver at all times. Unless previously equipped, a type A-I school bus
				with a GVWR of 11,500 pounds or less that uses vacuum assisted brakes is not
				required to be equipped with an additional reserve tank and gauge, provided the
				vacuum assist system meets FMVSS No. 105.
(5) Every school bus shall be equipped with a
				power assist brake system.
(6) The
				interior of the brake drums, brake linings, brake discs, and pads shall be free
				of cracks and contamination from oil or grease.
(7) The brake systems shall be properly
				adjusted to provide maximum braking effort in accordance with
				49 CFR 396.17
				(appendix G).
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.32 - Bumpers

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) The front bumper of type A-I, B, C or D
				buses shall have not less than an 8-inch face and shall extend between the
				frame rails as a minimum. The bumper shall be of sufficient strength and be
				positioned to permit pushing a vehicle of similar weight without distortion to
				the bumper, chassis, or body.
(2)
				The rear bumper of type A-I, B, C or D buses shall have not less than an 8-inch
				face and shall wrap around the rear corners of the body to a point at least 12
				inches forward. The bumper shall be of sufficient strength and shall be
				positioned to permit the bus to be pushed without distortion to either the
				bumper or the bus body. There shall be no more than 1/2 inch space between the
				bumper and the body. Protective material may be utilized to fill all or part of
				the required 1/2 inch space.
(3)
				Type A-II buses shall be equipped with bumpers on the front and on the
				rear.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.33 - Capacity

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) The passenger capacity of a school bus
				shall be determined by the following standards:
(a) Pupils through the 12th grade shall be
				allotted 13 inches of seating space.
(b) Each wheelchair location shall be counted
				as one seating position.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.34 - Color

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) All school buses shall be painted
				national school bus glossy yellow with the exception of the trim, grill, roof,
				wheels and the bumpers. Grills and wheels may be chrome, black, yellow, silver,
				white or gray. Engine hood tops may be painted matte black or lusterless yellow
				for glare reduction.
(2) When
				painted, the bumper shall be painted black.
(3) Stop arms shall be painted
				black.
(3m) Rub rails shall have a 2
				inch minimum black color down their center, by either painting or application
				of a high quality blackout film, paint film, or retro-reflective tape. The
				remainder of each rub rail shall be either black or national school bus glossy
				yellow.
(4) The following may be
				designated as trim or body components and if painted shall be either black or
				yellow:
(a) Door handles.
(b) Grab handles.
(c) Window sash, seals, gaskets, pillars, and
				bands on exposed edges.
(d) Door
				seals and gaskets.
(e) Mirror frame
				and mounting brackets.
(f) Lamp
				flanges, housings, and an area around the tail, stop, turn, and back up lamps
				not to exceed 3 inches. Areas adjacent to rub rails may exceed 3 inches to the
				extent of the width of the rub rail.
(g) Reflector frames and flanges.
(h) Windshield wiper arms.
(i) Snow rails.
(j) License frame and mounting
				brackets.
(k) Service
				door.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.355 - Crossing gate

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) All school buses shall have a crossing
				gate installed by May 1, 2004.
(2)
				The crossing gate shall be mounted on the right side of the front bumper and
				shall open to 90 degrees.
(3) The
				crossing gate shall meet or exceed SAE J1133. The crossing gate shall be
				constructed of noncorrosive or nonferrous material or treated in accordance
				with body sheet metal specifications and shall have no sharp edges or
				projections that could cause hazard or injury to students. The color may be
				yellow, black, silver or gray.
(4)
				The crossing control arm shall extend a minimum of 70 inches, measured from the
				bumper at the arm assembly attachment point, when in the extended position. The
				arm shall extend simultaneously with the stop arm by means of the stop arm
				controls.
(5) An automatic
				recycling interrupt switch may be installed for temporary disabling of the
				crossing control arm. An electromagnetic device may be installed to stabilize
				the arm when in the stored position.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.36 - Defroster

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) The defrosting system shall have the
				capacity to keep the windshield, the window to the left of the driver and the
				glass in the service door clear of fog and frost. The defroster outlets may not
				be restricted in any way.
(2) Fans
				may be used in addition to defrosters, but shall be mounted so as not to
				obstruct the driver's view.
(3) Any
				exposed fan blade shall have a shroud.
(4) The defrosting system shall conform to
				SAE standards J391 and J382.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.37 - Drive shaft

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Each segment of the drive shaft more than
				18 inches long shall be equipped with a suitable guard to prevent an accident
				or injury in the event of its fracture or disconnection. This section does not
				apply to type A-II buses manufactured in a single stage.
(2) The universal joints and the center
				bearing of every bus subject to inspection may not be loose or worn.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.38 - Emergency warning equipment

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Each school bus
				shall be equipped with 3 bidirectional emergency triangles. Oil burning pot
				flares may not be carried on a school bus.
(2) All emergency equipment shall be kept in
				suitable fasteners or containers in a readily accessible place in the driver's
				compartment. The container or units shall be secured to the bus.
(3) Emergency equipment may be locked or kept
				in a locked compartment provided it is not locked when passengers are being
				transported.
(4) This section does
				not preclude the carrying of additional emergency equipment.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.40 - Exhaust system

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) The exhaust system, which includes the
				exhaust manifolds, joining gaskets, piping leading from the exhaust manifold,
				muffler and tail pipe may not enter the bus body at any location. The exhaust
				system pipes shall be of nonflexible steel except that those buses which
				utilize a diesel engine may be equipped with a flexible pipe of not more than
				18 inches long between the engine and the first exhaust pipe hanger. Stainless
				steel bellows assemblies are allowed. School buses with 2007 EPA or newer
				diesel engines, subject to emissions standards in
				40
				CFR 86.007-11, may have flexible tubing at
				original manufactured locations and if replaced must meet or exceed
				manufacturer specifications.
(1m)
				School buses equipped with an EPA 2007 or newer diesel engine, which is subject
				to emissions standards in
				40
				CFR 86.007-11, shall maintain or exceed
				original specifications equipped by the manufacturer and shall discharge
				exhaust to the rear or left side of the school bus.
(2) An exhaust system that has its exit on
				the left side shall have the exit point located no further forward than behind
				the driver's position.
(3) An
				exhaust system, that is not an EPA 2007 or newer diesel engine, subject to
				emissions standards in
				40
				CFR 86.007-11, may discharge out of the right
				if located behind the rear wheels.
(4) An exhaust system that exits at the rear
				shall extend to, but not beyond, the rear limit of the bumper.
(5) Every exhaust system exit shall extend
				to, but not over one inch beyond the body limits of the bus. The exhaust shall
				be directed to prevent an accumulation of exhaust gases underneath the
				bus.
(5m) Buses equipped with diesel
				engines may be equipped with a turn-down exhaust pipe. The turn-down exhaust
				pipe may not exceed 6 inches forward of the rearmost part of the bus.
(6) The complete exhaust system shall be
				tightly connected and free from leaks.
(7) All emission control systems, components
				and parts shall be maintained in accordance with manufacturer's
				specifications.
(8) School buses
				operated in interstate commerce shall comply with
				49 CFR 393.83,
				exhaust system location.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.41 - Fire extinguisher

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Each bus shall be equipped with a fire
				extinguisher mounted in full view in the driver's compartment or mounted inside
				a compartment in the driver's area if the compartment is in plain view and is
				labeled "Fire Extinguisher" in red letters to indicate its location.
(2) The fire extinguisher may be locked or
				kept in a locked compartment provided it is not locked when passengers are
				being transported.
(3) Any fire
				extinguisher purchased after July 1, 1977, or utilized on a bus that was
				manufactured after January 1, 1978, shall utilize dry powder or Halon 1211. The
				fire extinguisher shall be 10 BC rating or a combination of 2 extinguishers
				with a total of at least 10 BC rating. Any bus manufactured after January 1,
				1984, shall use only a single extinguisher.
(4) Each extinguisher shall be kept fully
				charged and sealed.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.42 - First aid kit

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Each school bus shall carry a first aid
				kit. The container shall be moistureproof and dustproof and of rigid
				construction. The kit shall be mounted in full view in the driver's
				compartment, or it may be placed in an enclosed unlocked compartment in the
				driver's area providing the compartment is labeled "FIRST AID KIT" or marked
				with a red cross emblem in plain view indicating the location of the kit. The
				kit shall be removable without the use of any tools or keys.
(2) School buses shall carry a 16 unit kit or
				larger containing at least the following items:
Adhesive bandage, 1-inch ..................
2 packets
Bandage compress, 2-inch ..................
2 packets
Bandage compress, 4-inch ..................
4 packets
Gauze bandage, 4-inch ....................
2 packets
Gauze compress, 3-inch X 3-inch...........
2 packets
Gauze compress, 24-inch X 24-inch minimum .
1 packet
Triangular bandage, 40-inch ................
2 packets
Wire splint ..............................
1 packet
(3)
				All units shall be in sanitized packages.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.44 - Floor covering

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) The floor in the underseat, driver's
				compartment, step-well and the toeboard areas, including the tops of the wheel
				housings, shall be covered with a fire-resistant material.
(2) Type A-II buses shall have the floor
				covering secured so it cannot shift. The edges and seams shall be secured. The
				covering shall be of a slip resistant material.
(3) Type A-I, B, C or D school buses shall
				have floor covering on the total floor area. The aisle, step-well and entrance
				shall be of slip resistant rubber type material or equivalent material as
				certified by the manufacturer, when either wet or dry. The covering may not be
				cracked and shall be securely bonded or fastened to the floor. All seams shall
				be sealed.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.45 - Frame

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Alterations to the frame side members may
				only be made by the chassis or body manufacturer.
(2) Holes are not permitted except where
				originally provided in the chassis frame. There may be no welding to the frame
				except by the chassis or body manufacturer.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.46 - Fuel tank and fuel system integrity

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) All fuel
				systems and tanks must be maintained free of leaks. The fuel tank shall be
				attached to the bus in a manner that prevents any movement of the tank while
				the bus is in motion.
(2) All fuel
				lines shall be secured in a manner that will prevent wear.
(3) The filler pipe or device shall be
				located so that the fuel, if spilled or overfilled, will not drip or drain on
				any part of the exhaust system.
(4)
				Every fuel system shall be properly vented to prevent any accumulation of
				fumes.
(5) The fuel systems and
				tanks shall meet FMVSS 301, fuel system integrity, and all other federal and
				state standards and regulations applicable for the type of fuel used at the
				time of manufacture.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.47 - Heaters

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) An inside temperature of not less than
				50° fahrenheit at average minimum January temperatures as established by
				the U.S. department of commerce, weather bureau, for the area in which the bus
				is to be operated shall be maintained throughout the bus.
(2) The heater hose shall be adequately
				supported to guard against excessive wear or abrasion and may not interfere
				with or restrict the operation of any engine function. Heater lines inside the
				passenger compartment shall be shielded to prevent accidental contact by the
				driver or passengers.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.49 - Inside height

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) The inside height of the school bus shall
				be 72 inches or more, measured metal to metal, at any point on longitudinal
				center line from front vertical bow to rear vertical bow.
(2) Type A-II school buses need not comply
				with this section.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.51 - Instruments, gauges

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Every school bus shall be equipped with
				the following illuminated instruments to indicate malfunctions or gauges to
				indicate a measure or capacity:
(a) Air
				pressure or vacuum, where air or vacuum brakes are used with low energy supply
				warning systems.
(b) Ammeter or
				voltmeter.
(c) Fuel
				gauge.
(d) Odometer and
				speedometer.
(e) Oil
				pressure.
(f) Coolant
				temperature.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.52 - Interior

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Every school bus shall have a fire
				resistant inner lining on the ceilings and walls. The interior rearward metal
				panels shall be lapped over forward panels to reduce the likelihood of injury
				in the event of separation. The exposed edges of all interior panels shall be
				beaded, hemmed or flanged.
(2)
				Projections from the ceiling may not be allowed in the entrance way or aisle.
				Except for the driver's compartment, all speakers and accessory lighting
				devices shall be flush mounted or may extend up to one inch if edges are
				rounded or tapered. Accessory lighting shall be maintained in proper working
				condition.
(3) A convex mirror may
				be mounted on the inside rear of the school bus.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.55 - Mirrors

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) School bus mirrors shall comply with the
				requirements in
				49 CFR
				571.111 and FMVSS 111. In addition, type A-I,
				B, C or D buses shall comply with the following:
(a) There shall be one interior rearview
				mirror of at least 6 by 30 inches. The mirror shall be so constructed that the
				corners are rounded and the edges are smooth or protected.
(b) An optional convex mirror may be mounted
				on the inside rear of the school bus.
(c) There shall be 2 outside rearview
				mirrors, one to the right and one to the left of the driver. Each mirror shall
				have not less than 50 square inches of unobstructed reflective surface and
				shall be firmly supported and adjustable to give the driver a clear view past
				both the right and left rear of the bus.
(d) There shall be an adjustable convex
				mirror or equivalent "banana type mirror" mounted on the right side to provide
				an additional close-in field of vision from the front of the bus rearward. This
				mirror may be mounted on the bracket required for the cross view mirror. The
				mirror required in this paragraph shall be independently adjustable. It shall
				have at least a 7 inch diameter face.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.56 - Mounting of body

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) The chassis frame for body-on-chassis
				type buses shall extend to the rear edge of the rear body cross member.
				Insulating material used at body to frame contact points shall be so attached
				that it will remain in position under any anticipated maintenance or bus
				operating conditions.
(2) The body
				shall be securely fastened to the chassis frame. Every body attachment device
				shall be securely fastened and maintained with proper tension.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.57 - Openings

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) All openings in the floorboard or
				firewall, between chassis and passenger compartment, such as for the gear shift
				lever and auxiliary brake lever, shall be sealed to prevent fumes or foreign
				material from entering the passenger compartment.
(2) Every school bus shall be free of rusted
				or deteriorated areas which could permit the entrance of foreign substance into
				the interior of the vehicle.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.58 - Rub rails

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Every bus shall contain a rub rail
				located at seat cushion level. Except at the emergency door, rear compartment
				or special service door, the seat cushion level rub rail shall extend from the
				rear side of the service door completely around the bus body, to a point of
				curvature near the front of the body on the left side. On a type A-II bus, the
				seat cushion level rub rail is not required to extend around the rear corners
				of the bus and may terminate at the radii of the right and left rear
				corners.
(2) There shall be one
				floor line rub rail. This rub rail shall be located in an area so that the
				center of the rub rail is located at or between the following points:
(a) No more than 7 inches above the top of
				the steel floor, or
(b) No more
				than 5 inches below the top of the steel floor. The floor line rub rail shall
				extend over the same longitudinal distance as the seat level rub rail, except
				where it meets the wheel housing, fuel filler caps, fuel fill doors, side
				marker lights and may terminate at the radii of the right and left rear
				corners.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.59 - Seating

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) All seats shall be forward facing and
				securely fastened to that part or parts of the body which support them.
				Passenger seat cushions shall be fastened to prevent the cushions from
				disengaging from the seat frames in event of an accident. There shall be a
				minimum space of 24 inches between the forward surface of a seat back and the
				rear surface of the seat or barrier ahead measured across the seat cushion
				without depressing any surface. The forward surface of seat backs may have side
				bolsters that briefly reduce the width to less than 24 inches provided the
				remainder of the seat measures at least 24 inches.
(2) The forward most seat on the right side
				of the bus shall be located so as not to interfere with the driver's
				vision.
(3) A minimum of 36 inches
				of headroom for the sitting position above the top of the undepressed cushion
				line of all seats shall be provided. The measurement shall be made vertically
				not more than 11 inches from the side wall at cushion height and at the fore
				and aft center of the cushion.
(4)
(a) The backs of seats of similar size shall
				be of the same width at the top and of the same height from the floor and shall
				slant at the same angle with the floor. The top corners, and at least 10 inches
				of the top of the back surface of the seat backs shall be padded sufficiently
				to reduce the likelihood of injury upon impact. Seat cushions and seat backs
				may not have any torn or worn-through covering material.
(b) The seat back of the rearmost seat shall
				be of the same dimension as the seat immediately forward. Failure to comply
				with this standard will result in the loss of one seating position, or 2
				seating positions if this situation occurs in both rows, when determining the
				capacity of the bus. This requirement shall apply only to type A-I, B, C or D
				school buses manufactured after January 1, 1984.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.60 - Service door

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) The service door shall be under control
				of the driver and so designed as to prevent accidental opening. When a hand
				lever is used, no parts shall come together so as to shear or crush any
				fingers.
(2) The service door shall
				be located on the right side of the bus and within the view of the
				driver.
(3) The service door shall
				have a minimum horizontal opening of 24 inches and a minimum vertical opening
				of 68 inches.
(4) The upper and
				lower glass panels of the service door shall be of safety glass. The bottom of
				the lower glass panel may not be more than 35 inches from the ground when the
				bus is unloaded. The top of the upper glass panel may not be more than 6 inches
				from the top of door. The upper glass panel shall be of insulated glass or of a
				thermoelectric design that performs at least as well as insulated
				glass.
(5) Any lock used in
				conjunction with the service door must be constructed to insure that the door
				is not in the locked position while transporting passengers.
(6) The service door shall be equipped with a
				seal to prevent dust and cold air from entering the vehicle.
(7) Type A-II buses need not comply with
				subs. (3) and (4).
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.62 - Steering

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) Steering systems shall comply with
				49 CFR
				393.209. No changes may be made in the
				steering apparatus without the approval of the chassis manufacturer.
(2) There shall be a clearance of at least 2
				inches between the steering wheel and the cowl, instrument panel, windshield,
				or any other surface.
(3) The
				steering components may not be loose, worn, or binding and steering stops shall
				be adjusted so the tire does not rub at any point. The steering wheel lash may
				not exceed that found in
				49 CFR
				393.209(b).
(4) The power steering system may not leak
				nor shall the drive belt be cracked, frayed or worn.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.63 - Steps

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) The first step at the service door may
				not be more than 16 inches from the ground.
(2) The riser of any step may not be more
				than 15 inches. If there are 2 or more risers, they shall be approximately
				equal in height.
(3) The step may
				not protrude beyond the widest part of the body.
(4) Each step shall be covered with or
				constructed of nonskid material.
(5) All steps shall be enclosed to prevent
				the accumulation of ice or snow except the first step of a type A-II bus which
				may have an exposed step with a slip resistant surface.
(6) Each bus shall be equipped with a
				stepwell light which activates automatically upon opening of the service door
				to illuminate the steps. This light is not required to be operational during
				daylight hours. However, it must be in a working condition at all
				times.
(7) Each school bus shall be
				equipped with a grab handle at least 10 inches in length, located inside the
				service door entrance for providing assistance to enter or leave the
				bus.
Wisconsin Administrative Code › Department of Transportation › Chapter Trans 300 - Transportation Of School Children › Subchapter II - Equipment Standards › Section Trans 300.64 - Stop signal arm

Current through June 24, 2024
(1) A stop signal arm which meets FMVSS 131
				and SAE J1133 is required on every school bus painted with the yellow and black
				color scheme. The stop signal arm may not be extended until the bus is
				completely stopped.
(2) The stop
				signal arm shall be installed in such a manner that it cannot be activated
				unless the alternately flashing red lamps are in operation.
(3) The following specifications shall govern
				installation of the stop signal arm:
(a) It
				shall be a metal, or material with strength at least equivalent to all-steel,
				as certified by the bus body manufacturer, octagon-shaped sign at least 18
				inches wide and 18 inches long exclusive of the mounting bracket. All sheet
				metal parts shall be 16 gauge or heavier.
(b) It shall have the word "STOP" on both
				sides in white letters at least 6 inches high and 7/8 inch wide on a bright red
				background. The outer edge shall have a white border at least 1/2[DOUBLE
				DAGGER]inch wide. All other parts of the assembly shall be painted
				black.
(c) It shall be equipped
				with 2, 4-inch or larger, double faced alternating flashing red lamps to be
				mounted near the perimeter of the sign with a minimum of 12 inches spacing
				between lamp centers. These lamps shall be wired to the circuit of the flashing
				red warning lamps mounted on the front and rear of the bus. These lamps may be
				strobe lamps or light emitting diodes. In lieu of the 2 double faced
				alternating flashing red lamps, the stop signal arm may be equipped with red
				flashing, high visibility light-emitting diodes incorporated into the word
				"STOP," in accordance with the requirements of sub. (3) (b).