Passenger safety on buses
What bus drivers need to know about passenger safety, evacuation, and first aid equipment.
Driver Responsibility
As a bus driver, you have a special responsibility for the safety of passengers from the time they board until they leave the bus.
- Ensure that passengers are sitting or standing safely before you drive from the stop.
- Keep an eye on elderly, children, and disabled passengers who need extra time.
- Adjust your driving style so that standing passengers do not lose balance during braking and acceleration.
Safety Equipment on Board
| Equipment | Location | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fire extinguisher | By the driver and aisle | Fire fighting |
| First aid kit | By the driver’s seat | Emergency treatment of injuries |
| Emergency hammer | By the windows | Break windows during evacuation |
| Emergency exits | Rear door, roof hatch, windows | Alternative way out |
You are required to check that all safety equipment is in place and functional for every trip.
Evacuation
In case of fire or accident, you must act quickly and systematically:- Stop the bus safely and turn off the engine.
- Inform the passengers clearly and calmly about what they should do.
- Open all available exits, including emergency doors and roof hatch.
- Prioritize people who need help: children, elderly, and disabled.
- Gather passengers in a safe place at a good distance from the bus.
In case of fire, rapid evacuation is more important than attempting to extinguish it.
First Aid
- Bus drivers should master basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
- Call 113 in case of serious injuries and provide the exact location.
- Use the first aid kit on board to stop bleeding and stabilize the injured.
- Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger.
Special considerations
- Accelerating abruptly increases the risk of fall injuries among standing passengers.
- Keep emergency and safety equipment accessible and regularly checked.
- Be aware that passengers may be affected by alcohol, illness, or medication.
Further reading
- Read about buses in traffic for stop rules and right-of-way.
- See detailed evacuation procedures and requirements for class D driving license .
- Practice with a free theory test for buses.
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