The majority of bus fleets mandate daily pre-trip inspections, but it is highly encouraged to also complete post-trip school bus maintenance and inspections to ensure the bus remains in optimal condition and any damage or safety issues are quickly addressed.
Proper care and maintenance increases the lifespan of your school bus and guarantees a safe and efficient trip every time. Keep your bus healthy and running smooth by following these steps at the end of every trip:
- If possible, fill the fuel tank in the evening rather than waiting until the following morning, as this will reduce overnight condensation of water vapor inside the fuel tank of your school bus.
- When parking, after you set the parking brake and put the transmission in neutral, allow the engine to idle slowly as directed by the manufacturer’s instructions. This allows proper lubrication of all engine parts, which is especially important for diesel vehicles like school buses.
- While the engine is left idling, use the time to check the interior for damage to windows or seats that should be repaired before the bus is used again. Also check under the seats for sleeping students, or lost books, clothes, or other objects that may have been left by passengers.
- Sweep the floor and steps of the bus to encourage a clean bus policy. It is also encouraged to periodically wash the interior of the school bus including seats, windows, and windowsills.
- Inspect the exterior of the bus for burned out bulbs or other problems that need to be repaired. Then, re-enter the bus, turn off all electrical equipment, shut off the engine, remove the keys, and secure the bus until your next trip.
