RULES AND REGULATIONS
Title 67--TRANSPORTATION
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
[67 PA. CODE CH. 171]
School Buses and School Vehicles
[35 Pa.B. 3039] The Department of Transportation, under the authority in 75 Pa.C.S. §§ 4551, 4552, 4553 and 6103 and in accordance with section 6(d) of the Regulatory Review Act (71 P. S. § 745.6(d)) and section 204 of the act of July 31, 1968 (P. L. 769, No. 240) (45 P. S. § 1204), amends Chapter 171 (relating to school bus and school vehicle equipment standards) to read as set forth in Annex A.
Purpose of Chapter 171
Chapter 171 sets forth equipment and safety requirements for school buses as provided for in 75 Pa.C.S. § 4552 (relating to general requirements for school buses) and for other vehicles transporting school children as provided for in 75 Pa.C.S. § 4553 (relating to general requirements for other vehicles transporting school children).
Purpose of this Rulemaking
The purpose of this rulemaking is to clarify existing provisions of the regulations, reflect innovations adopted by school bus manufacturers and to address concerns raised by the State Police and the Pupil Transportation Advisory Committee (PTAC). The 40 members of the PTAC represent various groups and associations responsible for, or concerned with, pupil transportation.
Significant Provisions of this Rulemaking
In addition to the numerous clarifying amendments throughout the chapter, this rulemaking proposes the following significant changes:
Section 171.18(b) (relating to color) has been amended to permit the service door frame to be painted black and the mirror brackets to be stainless steel with a satin finish.
Section 171.20(a) (relating to electrical system) has been amended to eliminate the requirement for the chassis manufacturer to temporarily mount the battery to the chassis and has been amended to provide that the battery be mounted on a sliding tray. Section 171.20(c) has been amended to eliminate the requirement that for every school bus to be equipped with a readily accessible terminal strip or plug.
Section 171.36 (relating to tires and rims) has been amended to clarify that hub cabs that cover the lug nuts are prohibited because they could conceal loose lug nuts, a loose axle or wheel bearing fasteners or oil leaks.
Section 171.50(b) (relating to doors and emergency exits) has been amended to provide that hasps may not be used. If a hasp were to be inadvertently left in the locked position during student transportation it would render an emergency exit useless. Section 171.50(b)(5)(i) has been amended to prohibit a school bus that is equipped with tinted windows to place the emergency exit labeling on the tinted glass as the tinted glass would make the label difficult to read.
Section 171.54(a) (relating to heaters) has been amended to eliminate specific heater requirements and to provide for the broader requirement that evenly distributed heat be provided throughout the bus body and to require defrosting for the windshield, driver's side sash and the entrance door. Language has been added to § 171.54(b) detailing minimum requirements relating to auxiliary fuel-fired heating systems.
Section 171.55(c) (relating to identification) has been amended to allow the dealer insignia to be placed on the rear of the vehicle. Section 171.55(c) is also being amended to update the certification/identification number information from the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) number to the United States Department of Transportation identification number, since the ICC no longer exits.
Section 171.59(b) (relating to lamps and signals) has been amended to allow strobe lights and light emitting diodes to be used in both the 8-way light system and the stopping arm. Section 171.59(d) is being amended to allow the turn signal lamps to be of a shape other than round, as long as they are a minimum of 38 square inches. The rulemaking also requires that the flash rate be between 60--120 flashes per minute.
Section 171.59(f) has been deleted because the provision is duplicative of § 171.83 (relating to portable emergency warning devices).
Section 171.86 (relating to fire axe) has been added to prohibit this dangerous piece of equipment. There are a sufficient number of emergency exits required on every school bus.
Since 171.68(b) (relating to seat belts) has been amended to include both the Type A1 and A2 school buses to be equipped with an integral Type 2 seat belt assembly for the driver. Section 171.68(c) has been being added to require every school bus that is equipped with passenger seat belts to also have at least one web cutter securely mounted in the driver's compartment. This will assist the driver in evacuating the school bus in an emergency.
Section 171.69(5) (relating to seats and crash barriers) has been amended to require school buses that are equipped with an integrated child restraint seat to have a crash barrier or a seat back of similar size or higher in front of it.
Section 171.73 (relating to sun shield) has been amended to allow smaller, Type A1 and Type A2 school buses to be equipped with a manufacturer's standard sun shield. New language also allows Type A school buses to also have an interior adjustable transparent sun shield.
Section 171.76 (relating to ventilation) has been amended to eliminate the requirement for a static-type nonclosable exhaust vent to be installed in a low pressure area of the roof. New language states that the body must be equipped with a ventilation system.
Section 171.78 (relating to windows) has been amended to allow the edges of glass to either be banded or have a finished edge.
Section 171.85 (relating to video equipment) is being added to clarify that video equipment is permitted and may be installed at the discretion of the school district or school bus contractor.
Section 171.92 (relating to aisles) has been amended to clarify that school vehicles may not be equipped with more than two wheelchair positions. New language has also been added to state that each wheelchair seating position is counted as four designated seating positions, in conformity with 49 CFR 571.3(b) (relating to definitions).
Section 171.99 (relating to restraining devices) has been amended to clarify that specially equipped school vehicles that transport children must comply with 75 Pa.C.S. § 4581 (relating to restraint systems).
Sections 171.107 and 171.126 (relating to web cutter) are added to require specially equipped school buses and school vehicles to have a least one web cutter securely mounted in the driver's compartment. This will assist the driver when evacuating the specially equipped school bus or school vehicle.
Section 171.125 (relating to seating) has been amended to require school vehicle seats to be forward facing and must comply with 75 Pa.C.S. § 4581.
Persons and Entities Affected
This rulemaking affects persons and entities responsible for the transportation of school children. This includes all 501 school districts in this Commonwealth as well as any organization contracted with to provide pupil transportation. In addition, the State Police will be affected in the performance of school bus vehicle inspections.
Fiscal Impact
This rulemaking may impose a cost of approximately $10 for the purchase of a web cutter. Similarly, marginal savings may be anticipated from the elimination of equipment requirements currently in the regulations.
Regulatory Review
Under section 5.1 of the Regulatory Review Act (71 P. S. § 745.5a), on May 10, 2005, the Department submitted a copy of this rulemaking to the Office of Attorney General, the Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) and the Chairpersons of the House and Senate Transportation Committees for review. In addition to the rulemaking, the Committees were provided with a copy of the certification of the Governor that the rulemaking is required to meet an emergency threatening the public health, safety or welfare, as well as a detailed Regulatory Analysis Form prepared by the Department. A copy of this material is available to the public upon request.
Sunset Date
The Department is not establishing sunset date for these regulations, since these regulations are needed to administer provisions required under 75 Pa.C.S. (relating to the Vehicle Code). The Department will, however, continue to closely monitor these regulations for their effectiveness.
Contact Person
The contact person for technical questions regarding this rulemaking is Chris Ann Miller, Manager, Special Driver Programs, Department of Transportation, Bureau of Driver Licensing, Riverfront Office Center, 1101 South Front Street, 3rd Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17104, (717) 787-6453.
Order
The Department orders that:
(a) The regulations of the Department, 67 Pa. Code Chapter 171, are amended by amending §§ 171.1, 171.2, 171.14, 171.18, 171.20, 171.21, 171.36, 171.37, 171.47, 171.50, 171.54, 171.55, 171.58, 171.59, 171.67--171.70, 171.73, 171.74a, 171.76, 171.78, 171.80, 171.81, 171.83, 171.91, 171.92, 171.94--171.97, 171.99, 171.102--171.105, 171.121, 171.125, 171.138 and 171.149, by adding §§ 171.85, 171.86, 171.107, 171.126 and 171.127 and by deleting § 171.64 to read as set forth in Annex A, with ellipses referring to the existing text of the regulations.
(b) The Secretary of the Department shall submit this order and Annex A to the Office of General Counsel and the Office of Attorney General for approval as to legality and form as required by law.
(c) The Secretary shall certify this order and Annex A and deposit them with the Legislative Reference Bureau as required by law.
(d) This order shall take effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
ALLEN D. BIEHLER, P. E.,
SecretaryFiscal Note: 18-400. No fiscal impact; (8) recommends adoption.
GOVERNOR'S OFFICE
Certification of Need for Emergency Regulation Whereas, School districts in the Commonwealth and the school transportation providers with whom they contract are in constant need of replacing school buses and vehicles taken out of service because of age and need of repair; and
Whereas, innovations adopted by the school bus industry have been incorporated by school bus and vehicle manufacturers into school buses and vehicles now being marketed in Pennsylvania; and
Whereas, the innovations, in many instances, enhance the safety of the school buses and vehicles; and
Whereas, the innovations now included in new school buses and vehicles were not anticipated in current Department regulations; and
Whereas, without immediate amendment of the regulations, newly purchased school buses and vehicles cannot be certified for use by the school districts and school transportation providers who purchase them; and
Whereas, some school districts and the school transportation providers with whom they contract will be unable to maintain a sufficient fleet of school buses and vehicles to provide adequate transportation for the school children of the Commonwealth; and
Whereas, the inability to replace vehicles taken out of service with vehicles certified for use under Department regulations poses a threat to the public safety and welfare of the school children of the Commonwealth.
Now Therefore, I do hereby certify that the regulatory amendments to 67 Pa. Code, Chapter 171, attached hereto as Annex A are required to meet the emergency conditions enumerated in the recitals above and to safeguard the public health, safety and welfare as described therein.
Further, I hereby authorize the Secretary of Transportation to publish these amendments in the Pennsylvania Bulletin as a Final Rulemaking consistent with the provisions of Section 6 of the Regulatory Review Act, as amended, 71 P. S. § 745.6(d).
Given under my hand and the Seal of the Governor, at the City of Harrisburg, on this 29th day of April in the year of our Lord two thousand and five, and of the Commonwealth the two hundred and twenty ninth.
Governor
Annex A
TITLE 67. TRANSPORTATION
PART I. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Subpart A. VEHICLE CODE PROVISIONS
ARTICLE VII. VEHICLE CHARACTERISTICS
CHAPTER 171. SCHOOL BUS AND SCHOOL VEHICLES
Subchapter A. GENERAL PROVISIONS § 171.1. Applicability.
(a) Scope. This chapter applies to equipment and safety requirements for school buses as provided for in 75 Pa.C.S. § 4552 (relating to general requirements for school buses) and for other vehicles transporting school children as provided for in 75 Pa.C.S. § 4553 (relating to general requirements for other vehicles transporting school children).
(b) Exemptions. School buses manufactured or converted prior to September 14, 1996, must comply with the regulations in effect at the time they were manufactured or converted, except that Subchapter G (relating to operation standards for vehicles subject to this chapter) applies to vehicles subject to this chapter regardless of the date of manufacture or conversion.
(c) FMVSS. Vehicles manufactured as school buses are required to be in compliance with FMVSS as established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at 49 CFR 571 (relating to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards).
(d) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. Vehicles manufactured as school buses and operating in interstate commerce are required to be in compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations as established by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) at 49 CFR Parts 393 and 396 (relating to parts and accessories necessary for safe operation; and inspection, repair and maintenance). See Appendix A.
§ 171.2. Definitions.
The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
Bus--A motor vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver; or a motor vehicle, other than a taxicab or limousine, designed to transport not more than 15 passengers, including the driver, and used for the transportation of persons for compensation. The term does not include a vehicle used in a ridesharing arrangement, as defined in the act of December 14, 1982 (P. L. 1211, No. 279) (55 P. S. §§ 695.1--695.9), which provides for ridesharing arrangements and provides that certain laws are inapplicable to ridesharing arrangements, or a school bus.
Converted school bus--A vehicle not originally manufactured to be a school bus.
Convex mirror--A mirror having a curved reflective surface whose shape is the same as that of the exterior surface of a section of a sphere.
Department--The Department of Transportation of the Commonwealth.
Designated seating position--Under 49 CFR 571.3 (relating to definitions), a plain view location capable of accommodating a person at least as large as a 5th percentile adult female, if the overall seat configuration and vehicle design is of a type that the position is likely to be used as a seating position while the vehicle is in motion, except for auxiliary seating accommodations such as temporary or folding jump seats. A bench or split bench seat in a passenger car, truck or multipurpose passenger vehicle with a GVWR less than 10,000 pounds, having greater than 50 inches of hip room (measured in accordance with SAE Standard J1100(a)--See Appendix A) may not have less than three designated seating positions, unless the seat design or vehicle design is of a type that the center position cannot be used for seating.
FMVSS--Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards published in the Code of Federal Regulations.
Forward control--A configuration in which more than half of the engine length is rearward of the foremost point of the windshield base and the steering wheel hub is in the forward quarter of the vehicle length.
GVWR--Gross vehicle weight rating--The value specified on the Federal weight certification label by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of a single vehicle.
Insignia--Any identification statement, symbol, figure, logo or distinguishing sign, name or mark.
Mass transit pupil transportation bus--A bus, other than a school bus, that is operated by an urban mass transportation system and used exclusively for the transportation of children to and from school and school-related activities, even if used for other transportation purposes at other times.
Multifunction school activity bus--A school bus used to transport students on field trips, athletic trips or other curricular or extracurricular activities, but not used for to-and-from school transportation.
Pupil Transportation Section--The Pupil Transportation Section of the Bureau of Driver Licensing of the Department.
SAE--The Society of Automotive Engineers.
School--An institution for the education or training of children, including but not limited to kindergartens, rehabilitation centers, day care centers, Head Start centers, group day care homes, family day care homes and summer camps.
School bus--A motor vehicle designed to carry 11 passengers or more, including the driver, and used for the transportation of preprimary, primary or secondary school students to or from public, private or parochial schools or events related to these schools or school-related activities. The types of school buses are as follows:
(i) Type A school bus. A school bus converted from or having a body constructed upon a van-type truck or front-section vehicle chassis, with a left side driver's door and the entrance doors behind the front wheels. This definition includes two classifications: Type A1, with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) less than or equal to 10,000 pounds; and Type A2, with a GVWR greater than 10,000 pounds.
(ii) Type B school bus. A school bus constructed utilizing a stripped chassis, with the entrance door behind the front wheels. This definition includes two classifications: Type B1, with a GVWR less than or equal to 10,000 pounds; and Type B2, with a GVWR greater than 10,000 pounds.
(iii) Type C school bus. A school bus constructed utilizing a chassis with a hood and front fender assembly without a left side driver's door and with the entrance door behind the front wheels.
(iv) Type D school bus. A school bus constructed utilizing a stripped chassis with the entrance door ahead of the front wheels.
School vehicle--A motor vehicle, except a motorcycle, designed for carrying no more than ten passengers, including the driver, and used for the transportation of preprimary, primary or secondary school students while registered by or under contract to a school district or private or parochial school. The term includes vehicles having chartered, group and party rights under the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission and used for the transportation of school children.
Specially equipped school bus--A school bus used to transport children which, in addition to meeting the requirements for school buses as described in this chapter, contains special equipment as required in Subchapter D (relating to specially equipped school bus standards).
Stop signal arm--A device that can be extended outward from the side of the school bus to provide a signal to other motorists not to pass because the bus has stopped to load and discharge passengers.
Type 2 seat belt assembly--A combination of pelvic and upper torso restraints.
Unit magnification mirror--A plane or flat mirror with a reflective surface through which the angular height and width of the image of an object is equal to the angular height and width of the object when viewed directly at the same distance except for flaws that do not exceed normal manufacturing tolerances.
Upper torso restraint--A portion of a seatbelt assembly intended to restrain movement of the chest and shoulder regions.
Subchapter B. SCHOOL BUS CHASSIS STANDARDS § 171.14. Brakes.
(a) General rule.
(1) Unless otherwise provided for by this section, a school bus must be equipped with a chassis brake system which conforms with the provisions of FMVSS No. 105, No. 106 and No. 121, as applicable.
(2) The antilock brake system (ABS), provided in accordance with FMVSS No. 105 or No. 121, shall provide wheel speed sensors for each front wheel and for each wheel on at least one rear axle. The system shall provide antilock braking performance for each wheel equipped with sensors.
(3) Brake systems shall be designed to permit visual inspection of brake lining wear without removal of any chassis components.
(4) The brake lines, booster-assist lines and control cables shall be protected from excessive heat, vibration and corrosion and installed in a manner which prevents chafing.
(5) The parking brake system for either air or hydraulic service brake systems may be of a power assisted design. The power parking brake actuator shall be a push-pull device located on the instrument panel within seated reach of a 5th percentile female driver. As an option, the parking brake may be set by placing the automatic transmission shift control mechanism in the ''park'' position.
(6) The power-operated parking brake system may be interlocked to the engine key switch so that once the parking brake has been set and the ignition switch turned to the ''off'' position, the parking brake cannot be released until the key switch is turned back to the ''on'' position.
(b) Hydraulic brakes. A bus using a hydraulic-assist brake shall be equipped with audible and visible warning signals that provide a continuous warning to the driver of a loss of fluid flow from the primary source and of a failure of the back-up pump system.
(c) Air brakes. A bus equipped with air brakes shall conform to the following:
(1) The air pressure supply system shall include a desiccant-type air dryer installed according to the manufacturers' recommendations. The air pressure storage tank system may incorporate an automatic drain valve.
(2) The dashboard instrument panel of a bus equipped with an air brake system shall include an air pressure gauge of a type allowing the driver to comply with CDL pretrip inspection requirements.
(3) An air brake shall have both a visible and audible warning device whenever the air pressure falls below the level where warnings are required under FMVSS No. 121.
§ 171.18. Color.
(a) General rule. A school bus chassis, including wheels and bumpers, shall be black. A school bus hood, cowl and fender shall be National School Bus Yellow. See Appendix B.
(b) Exceptions. Exceptions to subsection (a) are as follows:
(1) Wheel rims shall be of a trim used by the rim manufacturer.
(2) School bus hoods may be nonreflective National School Bus Yellow--See Appendix A--or lusterless black matching National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Federal Standard No. 595a, Color 37038. See Appendix A.
(3) The service door frame may be black.
(4) The mirror brackets and other body accessories may be stainless steel with a satin finish.
(c) Multifunction school activity bus. The color requirements in this section do not apply to multifunction school activity buses.
§ 171.20. Electrical system.
(a) Battery. The requirements for the battery are as follows:
(1) The battery shall have a minimum cold cranking capacity rating equal to the cranking current required for 30 seconds at 0° F (-17.8° C) and a minimum reserve capacity rating of 120 minutes at 25 amp. Higher capacities may be required dependent upon optional equipment and local environmental conditions.
(2) Batteries in Type B, C and D school buses shall be mounted on a sliding tray.
(b) Generator or alternator. Requirements for generators and alternators are as follows:
(1) Every Type A and B school bus up to 15,000 pounds GVWR shall have a minimum 60 ampere per hour alternator.
(2) Every Type B school bus over 15,000 pounds GVWR and every Type C and D school bus shall be equipped with an alternator meeting SAE Standard J180b--See Appendix A--with a minimum output rating of 100 amperes, capable of producing a minimum of 50% of its maximum rated output at the engine manufacturer's recommended idle speed.
(3) Every school bus equipped with an electrical power lift shall have a minimum 100 ampere per hour alternator.
(4) A direct drive generator or alternator is permissible in lieu of belt drive. Belt drive shall be capable of handling the rated capacity of the generator or alternator with no detrimental effect on other driven components.
(5) Refer to SBMI Design Objectives Booklet. See Appendix A--for required generator or alternator capacity.
(c) Wiring. Requirements for wiring are as follows: Wiring shall conform to current applicable SAE Standards. Wiring and circuits shall be of a standard color and number coding and each chassis shall have a wiring diagram and circuit that coincides with the wiring and circuitry of the chassis.
§ 171.21. Exhaust system.
(a) General rule. The exhaust pipe, muffler and tailpipe shall be outside the body compartment and securely attached to the chassis with clamps and hangers of a type and installed as recommended by the chassis manufacturer.
(b) Tailpipe. The tailpipe shall be constructed of a corrosion-resistant tubing material at least equal in strength and durability to 16 gauge steel tubing.
(c) Tailpipe extension. The exhaust system of a school bus powered by a gasoline engine shall discharge to the atmosphere at or within 6 inched forward of the rearmost part of the school bus.
(d) Tailpipe extension for school buses using fuels other than gasoline. The exhaust system for a school bus using fuels other than gasoline shall discharge to the atmosphere either at or within 15 inches forward of the rearmost part of the vehicle; or to the rear of all doors or windows designed to be opened, except windows designed to be opened solely as emergency exits.
(e) Insulation. The exhaust system on a gasoline powered chassis shall be properly insulated from fuel tank connections by a securely attached metal shield at any point where it is 12 inches or less from the tank or tank connections.
(f) Muffler. The muffler shall be constructed of corrosion resistant material.
(g) Discharge lines and outlets. The discharge lines and outlets on school buses equipped with compressed or liquefied gas fuel systems shall be installed in accordance with Chapter 175 (relating to vehicle equipment and inspection).
(h) Exhaust system hangers. Exhaust systems may be equipped with hangers that permit required movement due to expansion and contraction caused by heat of the exhaust and relative motion between the engine and chassis of a vehicle.
(i) Exhaust system and discharge location. Exhaust systems are not permitted to discharge to the atmosphere at a location immediately below the fuel tank or the fuel tank filler pipe. Exhaust systems shall also extend and discharge completely to the outside edge of the vehicle body.
(j) Exception. This section does not apply to auxiliary fuel-fired heating systems.
§ 171.36. Tires and rims.
The requirements for the tires and rims of a school bus are as follows:
(1) School buses shall be equipped with tires and rims which conform to the vehicle chassis manufacturer's specifications as to tire size, in that the tires and rims are not smaller than those that have been recommended by the chassis manufacturer. Tires and rims shall meet the requirements of FMVSS Nos. 119 and 120. See Appendix A.
(2) Dual rear tires shall be provided on Type A2, Type B, Type C and Type D school buses.
(3) Tires on the same axle shall be of the same size and type of construction--bias, belted or radial. Type A school bus tires shall be of same size and type of construction on all axles.
(4) If the vehicle is equipped with a spare tire and rim assembly for emergency use, it shall be of the same size as those mounted on the vehicle.
(5) Tube type tires and tubeless equivalent tires shall be provided on dual wheel vehicles.
(6) When tires are replaced, they shall be of a quality equivalent to the original equipment.
(7) Radial type tires at least equivalent in strength and size to the bias construction tire specified may be substituted; however, no mixing of radial type and bias construction type tires may be permitted on the same axle.
(8) Regrooved, recapped or retreaded tires shall comply with the following:
(i) Regrooved, recapped or retreaded tires may not be used on front wheels or on single rear wheels.
(ii) Regrooved tires shall comply with safety standards certified by the tire manufacturer as meeting 49 CFR 569 (relating to regrooved tires)--see Appendix A--and shall be stamped as ''Regroovable.''
(iii) Recapped or retreaded tires shall comply with FMVSS No. 117. See Appendix A.
(iv) Regroovable tires may be retreaded, recapped or regrooved.
(9) No tire may be used which is in an unsafe condition. Tread depth on tires may at no time be less than 4/32 of an inch on the front and 2/32 of an inch on the rear as measured on two adjacent treads by an acceptable gauge such as the Dill, or its equivalent.
(10) A spare tire, if used, shall be suitably mounted in an accessible location outside the passenger compartment. Types A and B school buses need not comply with this paragraph.
§ 171.37. Transmission.
(a) Automatic. An automatic or semiautomatic transmission shall have at least three forward speeds and one reverse speed.
(b) Manual. On manual transmissions, second and higher gears shall be synchronized except when incompatible with engine power. A minimum of three forward speeds and one reverse speed shall be provided.
Subchapter C. SCHOOL BUS BODY STANDARDS § 171.47. Color.
The requirements for the color of school bus bodies are as follows:
(1) The school bus body shall be painted a uniform National School Bus Yellow. See Appendix B.
(2) The roof of the school bus may be painted white.
(3) The body exterior trim, including the exterior mirrors, may be black. The bumper shall be black.
(4) If a school bus is equipped with reflective material, other than that required under §§ 171.50 and 171.59 (relating to doors and emergency exits; and lamps and signals), the reflective material shall be of automotive engineering grade or better. If additional reflective materials and markings are used, they may be applied as follows:
(5) The pilaster (vertical window post) may be black.
(6) The color requirements in this section do not apply to multifunction school activity buses.
§ 171.50. Doors and emergency exits.
(a) Service doors. The requirements for service doors are as follows:
(1) The service door shall be under the control of the driver, and designed so as to afford easy release and prevent accidental opening. When a hand lever is used, no part may come together so as to shear or crush fingers.
(2) The service door shall be located on the right side of the school bus opposite the driver and within direct 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. Type A school bus service doors shall have a minimum opening area of 1,200 square inches.
(4) The service door shall be of the split type, sedan type or jackknife type. Split-type door includes a sectioned door which divides and opens inward or outward. If one section of a split type door opens inward and the other opens outward, the front section shall open outward.
(5) Lower as well as upper windows shall have approved safety glazing. The bottom of the lower window may not be more than 35 inches from the ground when the bus is unloaded. The top of the upper window may not be more than 6 inches from the top of the door. Type A school buses shall have an upper window with an area of at least 350 square inches of approved safety glazing.
(6) Vertical closing edges on split type or folding type entrance doors shall be equipped with flexible material to protect the passengers' fingers. Type A school buses may be equipped with the chassis manufacturer's standard entrance door.
(7) There may be no door to the left of the driver on Type C or D school buses. Type A and B school buses may be equipped with the chassis manufacturer's standard entrance door.
(8) Doors shall be equipped with padding at the top edge of each door opening. The padding shall be at least 3 inches wide and 1 inch thick and extend the full width of the door opening.
(b) Emergency exits. Each school bus shall comply with FMVSS No. 217. See Appendix A. The area of square centimeters of the unobstructed opening for emergency exits shall collectively amount to at least 432 multiplied times the number of designated seating positions in the bus. The area of an opening equipped with a wheel chair lift is counted toward meeting additional emergency area requirements only if the lift is designed to be folded or stored so that the area is available for use by persons not needing the lift.
(1) The requirements for emergency exit doors are as follows:
(i) The emergency exit door shall be hinged according to FMVSS No. 217. See Appendix A. Double emergency exit doors shall also be hinged according to FMVSS No. 217. See Appendix A.
(ii) The upper portion of the rear emergency exit door shall have a window equipped with approved safety glazing, the exposed area of which is at least 400 square inches. The lower portion of the rear emergency door on Type B, C and D school buses shall contain a window of approved safety glazing, measuring a minimum of 350 square inches. Type A school buses are exempt from this subparagraph.
(iii) Except as provided in subparagraph (iv), no portion of a seat or a restraining barrier may be installed within the area bounded by the opening of a side emergency exit door, a vertical transverse plane parallel to that plane at a distance of 30 centimeters (11 3/4 inches) forward of that plane, and a longitudinal vertical plane passing through the longitudinal centerline of the bus. See Figure 4.
(iv) A seat bottom may be located within the area described in subparagraph (iii) if the seat bottom pivots and automatically assumes and retains a vertical position when not in use, so that no portion of the seat bottom is within the area described in subparagraph (iii) when the seat bottom is vertical. See Figure 5.
(v) No portion of a seat or restraining barrier--located forward of the area described in subparagraph (iii) and between the door opening and a longitudinal vertical plane passing through the longitudinal centerline of the bus--may extend rearward of a vertical transverse plane tangent to the forwardmost portion of a latch mechanism on the door. See Figures 5 and 6.
(vi) Each emergency exit door of a school bus shall be equipped with a positive door opening device that, after the release mechanism has been operated:
(A) Bears the weight of the door.
(B) Keeps the door from closing past the point at which the door is perpendicular to the side of the bus body, regardless of the body's orientation.
(C) Provides a means for release or override.
(vii) The positive door opening device shall perform the functions specified in subparagraph (vi)(A) and (B) without the need for additional action beyond opening the door past the point at which the door is perpendicular to the side of the bus body.
(viii) Emergency door exits shall be equipped with padding at the top edge of each door opening. The padding shall be at least 3 inches wide and 1 inch thick and extend the full width of the door opening.
(ix) The emergency exit door opening may not be blocked with an obstruction higher than 1/4 inch across the bottom of the emergency exit door opening.
(x) Each school bus emergency exit door shall allow manual release of the door by a single person, from both inside and outside the passenger compartment. The release mechanism shall operate without the use of remote controls or tools, and notwithstanding any failure of the vehicle's power system. When the release mechanism is not in the position that causes an emergency exit door to be closed, and the vehicle's ignition is in the ''on'' position, a continuous warning sound shall be audible at the driver's seating position.
(xi) Two side emergency exit doors may not be located, in whole or in part, within the same post and roof bow panel space.
(xii) Supplemental security locks installed on emergency doors shall be equipped with an ignition interlock system or an audiovisual alarm located in the driver's compartment. Hasps may not be used.
(2) The requirements for emergency roof exits are as follows:
(i) Each emergency roof exit shall be hinged on its forward side, and shall be operable from both inside and outside the vehicle.
(ii) In a school bus equipped with a single emergency exit, the exit shall be located as near as practicable to the midpoint of the passenger compartment.
(iii) In a bus equipped with two emergency roof exits:
(A) One emergency roof exit shall be located as near as practicable to a point equidistant between the midpoint of the passenger compartment and the foremost limit of the passenger compartment.
(B) The other emergency roof exit shall be located as near as practicable to a point equidistant between the midpoint of the passenger compartment and the rearmost point of the passenger compartment.
(iv) In a bus equipped with three or more emergency roof exits, the roof exits shall be installed so that, to the extent practicable, the longitudinal distance between each pair of adjacent roof exits is the same and equal to:
(A) The distance from the foremost point of the passenger compartment to the foremost roof exit.
(B) The distance from the rearmost point of the passenger compartment to the rearmost roof exit.
(v) Except as provided in subparagraph (vi), each emergency roof exit shall be installed with its longitudinal centerline coinciding with a longitudinal vertical plane passing through the longitudinal centerline of the school bus.
(vi) In a bus equipped with two or more emergency roof exits, for each roof exit offset from the longitudinal vertical plane specified in subparagraph (v), there shall be another roof exit offset from that plane an equal distance to the other side.
(vii) Each school bus emergency roof exit shall allow manual release of the exit by a single person, from both inside and outside the passenger compartment, using not more than two release mechanisms.
(viii) Each school bus emergency roof exit, after the release mechanism has been operated, shall be manually extendable by a single person to a position that permits an opening at least 41 centimeters--16 1/8 inches--high and 41 centimeters--16 1/8--wide.
(3) The requirements for emergency exit windows are as follows:
(i) A bus equipped with emergency exit windows shall have an even number of these windows, not counting a push-out rear window. Side emergency exit windows shall be evenly divided between the right and left sides of the bus.
(ii) Each school bus emergency exit window shall allow manual release of the exit by a single person, from inside the passenger compartment, using not more than two release mechanisms. Each release mechanism shall operate without the use of remote controls or tools, and notwithstanding a failure of the vehicle's power system. When the release mechanism is open and the vehicle's ignition is in the ''on'' position, a continuous warning shall be audible at the driver's seating position.
(4) The engine starting system of a bus may not operate if an emergency exit is locked from either inside or outside the bus. An emergency exit is considered locked if the release mechanism cannot be activated and the exit cannot be opened by a person at the exit without a key or other special device, or a combination or other special information.
(5) The requirements for emergency exit labeling are as follows:
(i) Each school bus emergency exit shall be labeled ''Emergency Door'' or ''Emergency Exit,'' as appropriate, in letters at least 5 centimeters (2 inches) high, of a color that contrasts with its background. For emergency exit doors, the label shall be located at the top of, or directly above, the emergency exit door on both the inside and outside surfaces of the bus. The label for roof exits shall be located on an inside surface of the exit, or within 30 centimeters (11 3/4 inches) of the roof exit opening. For emergency exit windows, the label shall be located at the top of, or directly above, or at the bottom of the emergency exit window on both the inside and outside surfaces of the bus. If the school bus is equipped with tinted windows, the emergency exit labeling may not be placed on the glass, unless it is placed on both the inside and outside.
(ii) Concise operating instructions describing the motions necessary to unlatch and open the emergency exit shall be located within 15 centimeters (5 15/16 inches) of the release mechanism on the inside surface of the bus. These instructions shall be in letters at least 1 centimeter (3/8 inches) high and of a color that contrasts with its background--for example: ''Lift to Unlatch, Push or Open;'' or ''Turn Handle, Push Out to Open.''
(iii) Each opening for a required emergency exit shall be outlined around its outside opened perimeter with a minimum 3 centimeters--1 1/8 inches--wide retroreflective tape, either red, white or yellow in color, which meets the requirements of FMVSS No. 131. See Appendix A.
§ 171.54. Heaters.
(a) The requirements for heaters are as follows:
(1) Heaters shall provide evenly distributed heat throughout the interior of the bus.
(2) At least one heater shall provide defrosting for the windshield, driver's side sash and entrance door.
(3) Heater hoses shall be adequately supported to guard against excessive wear due to vibration. The hoses may not dangle or rub against the chassis or sharp edges and may not interfere with or restrict the operation of any engine function. Heater hoses shall conform to applicable SAE Standards. See Appendix A. Heater lines on the interior of the bus shall be shielded to prevent scalding of the driver or passengers.
(4) A hot water heater system shall include a shutoff valve installed in the pressure and return lines at the engine. There shall be a water flow regulating valve installed for convenient operation by the driver. Type A school buses are exempt from this paragraph.
(5) Accessible bleeder valves shall be installed to remove air from the heater lines. The valves shall be installed in an appropriate place in the return lines of the heater.
(6) Heater motors, cores and fans shall be readily accessible for service. Access panels shall be provided as needed.
(b) Auxiliary fuel-fired heating systems are permitted, provided they comply with the following:
(1) The auxiliary heating system fuel shall utilize the same type fuel as specified for the vehicle engine.
(2) The heaters may be either of a direct hot air type or connected to the engine's coolant system.
(3) 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.
(4) Auxiliary heating systems shall be installed pursuant to the manufacturer's recommendations and may not direct exhaust in a manner that will endanger bus passengers.
(5) Auxiliary heating systems which operate on diesel fuel shall be capable of operating on #1, #2 or blended diesel fuel without the need for system adjustment.
(6) Auxiliary heating systems shall be low voltage.
(7) Auxiliary heating systems shall comply with all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, including FMVSS 301 as well as SAE test procedures.
[Continued on next Web Page]
No part of the information on this site may be reproduced for profit or sold for profit.This material has been drawn directly from the official Pennsylvania Bulletin full text database. Due to the limitations of HTML or differences in display capabilities of different browsers, this version may differ slightly from the official printed version.
