Oregon Bulletin
Rule
Caption: Modifies rule relating to
administration of state assessments by school district.
Adm.
Order No.: ODE 7-2011
Filed with Sec. of
State: 7-1-2011
Certified to be
Effective: 7-1-11
Notice Publication
Date: 2-1-2011
Rules Amended: 581-022-0610
Subject: Removes paper-based Braille as an administration
option for Oregon Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (OAKS). Starting in
2011–12, ODE will provide access to OAKS for students using Braille
through the OAKS Online System. ODE proposes this rule to go into effect in
upon filing.
Rules Coordinator: Diane Roth—(503) 947-5791
581-022-0610
Administration of State
Assessments
(1) Definitions. As used in this rule:
(a) “Accommodations” means practices and procedures in
presentation, response, setting, and timing or scheduling that, when used in an
assessment, provide equitable access to all students. Accommodations do not
compromise the learning expectations, construct, grade-level standard, or
measured outcome of the assessment as determined by the Oregon Accommodations
Panel established by the Oregon Department of Education (ODE).
(b) “Allowable resources” means subject-specific
resources identified as allowable in the Test Administration Manual that are
made available to students by a test administrator during a testing event.
Allowable resources are not student-specific, and their use does not invalidate
test results. Allowable resources are the only resources that districts may
give to students during administration of an Oregon Statewide Assessment.
(c) “District test coordinator” (DTC) means district
personnel who ensure secure administration of Oregon Statewide Assessments as
defined by Oregon Revised Statute, Administrative Rules, and the Test
Administration Manual, including but not limited to supervising the work of the
school test coordinators and test administrators.
(d) “Force majeure” means an extraordinary circumstance
(e.g., power outage or network disturbance lasting at least one full school
day) or act of nature (e.g., flooding, earthquake, volcano eruption) which
directly prevents a school district from making reasonable attempts to adhere
to the Test Schedule.
(e) “Impropriety” means the administration of an Oregon
Statewide Assessment in a manner not in compliance with the Test Administration
Manual, Oregon Revised Statute, or this rule.
(f) “Invalidation” means the act of omitting test
results and student responses from the testing, reporting, and accountability
systems for a given testing event for which the student may not retest.
(g) “Irregularity” means an unusual circumstance that impacts
a group of students who are testing and may potentially affect student
performance on the assessment or interpretation of the students’ scores. A
force majeure is an example of a severe irregularity.
(h) “Modification” means practices and procedures that
compromise the intent of the assessment through a change in the achievement
level, construct, or measured outcome of the assessment.
(i) “OAKS Online” means the secure web-based testing
application used to deliver the Oregon Assessment of Knowledge and Skills
(OAKS) and the English Language Performance Assessment (ELPA).
(j) “Oregon Statewide Assessments” means:
(A) The Oregon Assessment of Knowledge and Skills
(OAKS) in:
(i) Reading/Literature;
(ii) Mathematics;
(iii) Science;
(iv) Social Sciences;
(B) The Writing Performance Assessment;
(C) The English Language Proficiency Assessment (ELPA);
and
(D) The Extended Assessment in:
(i) Reading/Literature;
(ii) Mathematics;
(iii) Science
(k) “Reset” means the removal of student responses from
the web-based testing application for a given testing event for which the
student may retest.
(l) “School building” means facilities owned, leased,
or rented by a school district, educational service district, public charter
school, private school, or private alternative program.
(m) “School district” means:
(A) A school district as defined in ORS 332.002;
(B) The Oregon School for the Deaf;
(C) The Juvenile Detention Education Program as defined
in ORS 326.695;
(D) The Youth Corrections Education Program as defined in
ORS 326.695;
(E) The Long Term Care Program as defined in ORS
343.961; and
(F) The Hospital Education Programs as defined in ORS
343.261.
(n) “School test coordinator” (STC) means school
personnel who provide comprehensive training to test administrators and monitor
the testing process.
(o) “Test Administration Manual” means a manual
published annually by ODE that includes descriptions of the specific policies
and procedures that school districts are required to follow when administering
any component of the Oregon Statewide Assessments. References to the Test
Administration Manual refer to the edition in effect at the time of test
administration and include appendices and any addenda published in accordance
with ODE’s revision policy.
(p) “Test administrator” (TA) means an individual
trained to administer the Oregon Statewide Assessments in accordance with the
Test Administration Manual.
(q) “Test Schedule” means the Test Schedule and
Required Ship Dates published annually by ODE that includes the windows in
which school districts must offer their students the Oregon Statewide
Assessments and the deadline by with DTCs must ship or postmark test materials.
(2) (a) School districts, as defined in ORS 332.002,
must enforce the assessment policies described in this rule for all students
enrolled in a school operated by the district or enrolled in a public charter
school that is located within the boundaries of the school district.
(b) School districts, as defined in ORS 332.002, must
enforce the assessment policies described in this rule for all resident
students enrolled in a private alternative education program, regardless of
whether the private alternative education program is located within the
boundaries of the school district.
(c) The Oregon School for the Deaf must enforce the
assessment policies described in this rule for all students enrolled in that
school.
(d) The Juvenile Detention Education Program and the
Youth Corrections Education Program must enforce the assessment policies
described in this rule for all students enrolled in that program.
(e) The Long Term Care Program and the Hospital
Education Programs must enforce the assessment policies described in this rule
for all students enrolled in that program.
(f) School districts may delegate responsibility for
enforcing the assessment policies described in this rule to another school
district or education service district under the conditions specified in the
Test Administration Manual.
(3) School districts must administer Oregon Statewide
Assessments in accordance with the Test Administration Manual and Test Schedule
published by ODE. School districts must use student assessment data in
accordance with the Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) Policy and Technical Manual
published annually by ODE. The results of these assessments are used to satisfy
the requirements specified in OAR 581-022-1670 and 581-022-0606 and as a method
to evaluate compliance with OAR 581-022-1210.
(4) School districts must ensure that students are
administered the proper Oregon Statewide Assessment and that the testing
environment satisfies the following testing conditions:
(a) School districts must ensure that Oregon Statewide
Assessments are administered by a trained TA who has signed an Assurance of
Test Security form for the current school year on file in the district office;
(b) School districts must administer Oregon Statewide
Assessments in a school building or in an environment that otherwise complies
with the Test Administration Manual;
(c) School districts must apply the following criteria
in deciding whether to provide a student with an accommodation during
administration of an Oregon Statewide Assessment:
(A) School districts must decide whether to provide
accommodations during an assessment on an individual student basis and
separately for each content area to be assessed; and
(B) For students with an Individualized Education Plan
(IEP) or 504 Plan, school districts must implement the assessment decision made
by a student’s IEP or 504 team and documented in the IEP or 504 Plan;
(d) School districts may only administer modifications
to students with an IEP or 504 Plan and only in accordance with the assessment
decision made by the student’s IEP or 504 team and documented in the IEP or 504
Plan. Before administering an assessment using a modification, a student’s IEP
or 504 team must inform the student’s parent that the use of a modification on
an OAKS assessment will result in an invalid assessment;
(e) School districts must provide only those
subject-specific allowable resources listed in the Test Administration Manual;
(f) School districts must ensure that students do not
access electronic communication devices such as cellular phones or personal
digital assistants (PDAs) during an assessment; and
(g) School districts must follow all additional testing
conditions specified in the Test Administration Manual.
(5) Failure by a school district to comply with Section
(4) of this rule constitutes an impropriety as defined in Section 1(e) of this
rule. DTCs must report all potential improprieties or irregularities to ODE
within one business day of learning of the potential impropriety or
irregularity in accordance with the reporting procedures contained in the Test
Administration Manual.
(6) The ODE may invalidate assessment results and
student responses for assessments administered under conditions not meeting the
assessment administration requirements specified in Sections 3 and 4 of this
rule. In rare instances, ODE may reset a student assessment at the request of
the school district if ODE determines that a reset would not compromise the
security or validity of the assessment.
(7) ODE counts assessments that meet the following
conditions as non-participants in ODE calculations of participation and does
not include such assessments in ODE calculations of performance:
(a) OAKS Assessments administered using modifications
as defined in Section 1(h) of this rule;
(b) Invalidated assessments;
(c) Assessments administered outside the testing window
specified in the Test Schedule; or
(d) Assessments shipped or postmarked after the dates
identified in the Test Schedule.
(8) ODE only allows extensions to the testing window or
shipping deadlines identified in the Test Schedule in cases where a force
majeure occurs within three days of the close of the testing window or shipping
deadline and prevents a school district from meeting the deadline. Upon
receiving a force majeure extension request from the school district, ODE may
permit a one-day extension of the testing window or shipping deadline for each
day of the force majeure, for up to five days. The force majeure extension
begins on the first school day after normal operations resume and ends no later
than the last school day in the month in which the testing window closes.
(9) (a) School districts must use OAKS Online when
administering OAKS and ELPA.
(b) School districts may only assess students using the
Extended Assessment instead of OAKS if the student has an IEP Plan and the
student’s Plan indicates separately for each content area to be assessed that
the student requires the Extended Assessment.
(10) School districts may only provide students with
access to printed test items or reading passages from OAKS Online if:
(a) The TA administering the testing session approves
the student’s request to print a test item or reading passage;
(b) The printer used to print test items or reading
passages is monitored by staff who have received test security training and
signed an Assurance of Test Security Form for the current school year;
(c) Staff who have received test security training and
signed an Assurance of Test Security Form for the current school year securely
shred the printed test items or reading passages immediately after the testing
session in which the test was administered in accordance with the Test
Administration Manual.
(11) School districts must administer ELPA annually to
all students determined by the school district to be eligible for English
language development (ELD) services under Title III of the No Child Left Behind
Act of 2001 (NCLB), regardless of whether an eligible student actually receives
ELD services.
Stat. Auth.: ORS 326.051 &
329.075
Stats. Implemented: ORS 329.075
& 329.485
Hist.: 1EB 2-1985, f. 1-4-85, ef.
1-7-85; EB 14-1990(Temp), f. & cert. ef. 3-5-90; ODE 6-2002(Temp), f. &
cert. ef. 2-15-02 thru 6-30-02; ODE 16-2002, f. & cert. ef. 6-10-02; ODE
30-2008, f. 12-16-08, cert. ef. 12-19-08; ODE 12-2009, f. & cert. ef.
12-10-09; ODE 7-2010, f. & cert. ef. 5-27-10; ODE 7-2011, f. & cert.
ef. 7-1-11
Rule
Caption: Modifies requirements relating to
local assessment options.
Adm.
Order No.: ODE 8-2011
Filed with Sec. of
State: 7-1-2011
Certified to be
Effective: 7-1-11
Notice Publication
Date: 2-1-2011
Rules Amended: 581-022-0615
Subject: The proposed revision to OAR 581-22-0615 (Assessment
of Essential Skills) serves a twofold purpose:
Eliminates the
requirement for the Assessment of Essential Skills Review Panel (AESRP) to
recommend criteria for the local assessment option; and
Requires school
districts to make public certain documentation, should they elect to utilize
the local assessment option.
Rules Coordinator: Diane Roth—(503) 947-5791
581-022-0615
Assessment of Essential Skills
(1) Definitions. As used in this rule:
(a) “Assessment option” means an assessment approved to
assess proficiency in the Essential Skills for the purpose of earning a high
school diploma or a modified diploma.
(b) “Essential Skills” means process skills that cross
academic disciplines and are embedded in the content standards. The skills are
not content specific and can be applied in a variety of courses, subjects, and
settings.
(c) “Local performance assessment” means a standardized
measure (e.g., activity, exercise, problem, or work sample scored using an
official state scoring guide), embedded in the school districts’ and public
charter schools’ curriculum that evaluates the application of students’
knowledge and skills.
(d) “Official state scoring guide” means an evaluation
tool designed for scoring student work that includes specific, consistent
assessment criteria for student performance and a 1-6 point scale to help rate
student work. It is used by Oregon teachers to evaluate student work samples.
(e) “Student-initiated test impropriety” means student
conduct that:
(A) Is inconsistent with:
(i) The Test Administration Manual; or
(ii) Accompanying guidelines; or
(B) Results in a score that is invalid.
(f) “Work sample” means a representative sample of
individual student work (e.g., research papers, statistical experiments,
speaking presentations, theatrical performances, work experience) that may
cover one or more content areas and therefore may be scored using one or more
official state scoring guide(s). At the high school level, a work sample can be
used to fulfill both the local performance assessment requirement described in
Section 2 of this rule and the Essential Skills requirement described in
Section 3 of this rule.
(2) School districts and public charter schools that
offer grades 3 through 8 or high school shall administer local performance
assessments for students in grades 3 through 8 and at least once in high
school. For each skill area listed in section (17) of this rule, the
assessments shall consist of:
(a) One work sample per grade scored using official
state scoring guides; or
(b) Comparable measures adopted by the district.
(3) School districts and public charter schools shall
require high school students to demonstrate proficiency in the Essential Skills
using assessment options that are approved by the State Board of Education for
the purpose of student eligibility for:
(a) The high school diploma as established in OAR
581-022-1130; or
(b) The modified diploma as established in OAR
581-022-1134.
(4) Pursuant to ORS 339.115 and 339.505, school
districts and public charter schools shall provide any eligible student with
instruction in and multiple assessment opportunities to demonstrate proficiency
in the Essential Skills for the purpose of achieving the high school diploma or
the modified diploma.
(5) To be eligible to receive a high school diploma or
a modified diploma:
(a) For students first enrolled in grade 9 during the
2008-2009 school year, school districts and public charter schools shall
require students to demonstrate proficiency in the Essential Skill listed in
section (16)(a) of this rule: Read and comprehend a variety of text.
(b) For students first enrolled in grade 9 during the
2009-2010 school year, school districts and public charter schools shall
require students to demonstrate proficiency in the Essential Skills listed in
sections (16)(a)-(b) of this rule:
(A) Read and comprehend a variety of text; and
(B) Write clearly and accurately.
(c) For students first enrolled in grade 9 during the
2010-2011 school year, school districts and public charter schools shall
require students to demonstrate proficiency in the Essential Skills listed in
section (16)(a)-(c) of this rule:
(A) Read and comprehend a variety of text;
(B) Write clearly and accurately; and
(C) Apply mathematics in a variety of settings.
(d) For students first enrolled in grade 9 during the
2011-2012 school year or first enrolled in grade 9 in any subsequent school year,
school districts and public charter schools shall require students to
demonstrate proficiency in the Essential Skills listed in Section
16(a)–(c) of this rule and any additional Essential Skills for which:
(A) The State Board of Education has adopted the
determination to phase in for inclusion in the high school diploma and modified
diploma requirements; and
(B) The State Board of Education has adopted assessment
options by March 1 of the student’s 8th grade year.
(e) School districts and public charter schools may
require students to demonstrate proficiency in additional Essential Skills
beyond the minimum requirements described in section (5)(a)-(d) of this rule.
(6) The Superintendent of Public Instruction shall
establish an Assessment of Essential Skills Review Panel (AESRP) to make
recommendations on:
(a) The phasing in of Essential Skills for inclusion in
the high school diploma and the modified diploma requirements;
(b) The adoption of assessment options to measure
students’ proficiency in the approved Essential Skills for the purpose of the
high school diploma or the modified diploma; and
(c) The achievement standards used to determine student
eligibility for the high school diploma or the modified diploma.
(7) The AESRP shall work toward the goal of a system
with a high degree of technical adequacy and equivalent rigor between
assessment options as practicable.
(8) The AESRP shall base its recommendations on
evidence provided by:
(a) School districts;
(b) Research organizations; and
(c) Other experts.
(9) The AESRP shall consist of assessment experts from:
(a) School districts, including but not limited to:
(A) Superintendents;
(B) Principals;
(C) Curriculum Directors;
(D) Educators;
(E) Special education educators; and
(F) English Language Learners (ELL) educators;
(b) Post-secondary education institutions; and
(c) Business partners who have expertise in:
(A) Assessment design;
(B) Assessment administration; or
(C) Use of assessments
(10) The State Board of Education shall make the
determination to adopt the AESRP’s recommended assessment options, and
achievement standards for the purpose of conferring high school diplomas and
modified diplomas. The determination of the State Board of Education will be
final and not subject to appeal.
(11) The ODE shall issue the State Board of Education’s
intentions regarding the AESRP’s recommendations by December 15 of each year
and formal notice of the State Board of Education’s final determination
regarding the AESRP’s recommendations by March 1 of each year as an addendum to
the Test Administration Manual, which the ODE shall issue by August 1 of each
year.
(12) School districts and public charter schools shall
adhere to the requirements set forth in the Test Administration Manual to:
(a) Administer;
(b) Score;
(c) Manage; and
(d) Document the district and school assessments of
students’ proficiency in the Essential Skills required to receive a high school
diploma or a modified diploma.
(13) School districts and public charter schools shall
establish conduct and discipline policies addressing student-initiated test
impropriety.
(14) School districts and public charter schools shall
allow students to use assessment options and achievement standards adopted by
the State Board of Education in a student’s ninth through twelfth grade years
as follows:
(a) Students may demonstrate proficiency in the
Essential Skills using assessment options adopted in their ninth through
twelfth grade years.
(b) Students may use achievement standards adopted in
their 9th through 12th grade years that are equal to or lower than the
achievement standards approved as of March 1 of the students’ 8th grade year.
(15) Districts may develop and administer a local
assessment option for students to demonstrate proficiency in the Essential
Skills, using established professional and technical standards in place of the
assessment options adopted by the State Board of Education as described in
section 14 of this rule. Districts that choose this option are required to
publish:
(a) A communication strategy to ensure stakeholders are
notified of the district’s approach to the local assessment option; and
(b) Materials written in plain language that contain
descriptions of the
(A) Purpose of the assessment;
(B) Scoring methodology;
(C) Method by which students and parents will receive
results from the assessment;
(D) Criteria for determining student proficiency using
the assessment; and
(E) Criteria for determining which students will have
access to the assessment
(16) The ODE shall publish the subset of Essential
Skills assessment options and the associated performance levels which may be
used by each of Oregon’s post-secondary institutions as defined by those
institutions’ policies provided to the ODE by October 15 of each year.
(17) The Essential Skills identified by the State Board
of Education as of July 1, 2008 are as follows:
(a) Read and comprehend a variety of text;
(b) Write clearly and accurately;
(c) Apply mathematics in a variety of settings;
(d) Listen actively and speak clearly and coherently;
(e) Think critically and analytically;
(f) Use technology to learn, live, and work;
(g) Demonstrate civic and community engagement;
(h) Demonstrate global literacy; and
(i) Demonstrate personal management and teamwork
skills.
(18) School districts and public charter schools shall
include one or more local performance assessments for grades 3 through 8 and
for high school for each of the following skill areas:
(a) Writing;
(b) Speaking;
(c) Mathematical problem-solving; and
(d) Scientific inquiry.
(19) School districts and public charter schools may
include one social science analysis work sample that is administered in
accordance with school district or public charter school policies as a local performance
assessment for grades 3 through 8 and for high school.
(20) For students on an Individualized Education Plan
(IEP) or 504 Plan, if a student’s IEP or 504 Team determines that the nature of
a student’s disability prevents the student from demonstrating proficiency in
an Essential Skill using any of the approved assessment options listed in the
Test Administration Manual, the student’s IEP Team may exempt the student from
the requirement as listed in the Test Administration Manual and determine an
appropriate replacement assessment option for the student to use that addresses
the Essential Skill in a manner that is consistent with:
(a) The student’s instructional plan; and
(b) The state assessment criteria adopted by the State
Board of Education.
(21) For students seeking a modified diploma, school
districts and public charter schools may modify the assessment options adopted
by the State Board of Education when the following conditions are met:
(a) For students on IEP or 504 Plans:
(A) School districts and public charter schools must
comply with all requirements established by the student’s IEP or 504 Plan when
implementing modifications for work samples;
(B) School districts and public charter schools must
comply with OAR 581-022-0610 section (4)(d) when implementing modifications for
a statewide assessment.
(b) For students not on IEP or 504 Plans:
(A) School districts and public charter schools may
only implement modifications for work samples that are consistent with the
modifications the student has received during instruction in the content area
to be assessed in the year in which the work sample is administered.
(B) School districts and public charter schools must
obtain approval from the school team responsible for monitoring the student’s
progress toward the modified diploma before implementing modifications for work
samples.
(C) Consistent with OAR 581-022-0610, school districts
and public charter schools may not implement modifications for statewide
assessments for students who are not on an IEP or 504 Plan.
Stat. Auth.: ORS 329.451,338.025,
339.115 & 339.505
Stats. Implemented: 329.045, 329.075,
329.451, 329.485 & 338.115
Hist.: ODE 17-2008, f. & cert.
ef. 6-27-08; ODE 10-2009(Temp), f. & cert. ef. 9-1-09 thru 2-28-10; ODE
19-2009, f. & cert. ef. 12-10-09; ODE 8-2011, f. & cert. ef. 7-1-11
Rule
Caption: Updates minimum standards for
retrofit of school buses.
Adm.
Order No.: ODE 9-2011
Filed with Sec. of
State: 7-1-2011
Certified to be
Effective: 7-1-11
Notice Publication
Date: 5-1-2011
Rules Adopted: 581-053-0516
Rules Amended: 581-053-0512
Rules Repealed: 581-056-0517
Subject: Updates minimum standards for school buses that are
used for the first time in Oregon and combines chassis and body requirements
into one rule.
Repeals separate
rule regarding minimum standards for school bus bodies. Creates separate
minimum standards that apply to all buses regardless of purchase or manufacture
date.
Oregon Revised
Statute 820.100 directs the State Board of Education to adopt vehicle standards
for school buses consistent with national standards. National standards are
updated every five years at the National Congress on School Transportation.
Oregon is an active participant in this congress. Updates in this rule ensure
that our standards are in line with national standards.
In the past,
school bus bodies were purchased separately from chassis that were normally
made by a truck manufacture. Because of this process, rules were adopted for
both parts of the school bus separately. School bus manufacturing has become
more streamlined and most school buses are built from the ground up by one
company and all school buses use chassis that are purpose built for the school
bus industry.
Currently
retrofit standards are part of OAR 581-053-0512 “Minimum Standards for School
Bus Chassis” and OAR 581-053-0517 Minimum Standards for School Bus Bodies.” In
order to make our rules more understandable, both of these OARs have been
combined. Removing the retrofit standards out of the minimum standards for new
school buses into their own rule, will further clarify the Department’s intent
in rule.
Rules Coordinator: Diane Roth—(503) 947-5791
581-053-0512
Minimum Standards for School Bus
Chassis
(1) Air Cleaner:
(a) The engine intake air cleaner shall be furnished
and properly installed by the chassis manufacturer to meet engine
specifications;
(b) All Type C and Type D buses equipped with diesel
engines shall have an air cleaner restriction indicator properly installed by
the chassis manufacturer to meet engine specifications.
(2) Air System: All buses equipped with air systems for
brakes shall provide and identify an appropriate air port for plumbing in air
powered accessories.
(3) Air-Operated Accessories: Air-operated accessories
shall be plumbed into the vehicle’s air supply system in compliance with all
the following:
(a) Safeguarded by a check valve or equivalent device
located between the air supply system and the accessory to prevent air loss due
to accessory failure. This shall include the supply line for a designated
accessory air tank;
(b) Connected to the air supply system in compliance
with all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards;
(c) Connected in the manner prescribed by the vehicle
manufacturer.
(4) Aisle: Minimum clearance of all aisles shall be 12
inches;
(5) Axles: The front and rear axles and suspension
systems shall have a gross axle weight rating at ground commensurate with the
respective front and rear weight loads of the bus loaded to the rated passenger
capacity;
(6) Back-up camera: A back-up camera may be installed.
The camera housing shall not block any signage or lights that are required. The
monitor for the back-up camera system shall not block the view of any window,
gauges, or required indicator lights. The monitor shall only work when the
transmission is in reverse.
(7) Body Construction:
(a) Construction shall be of prime commercial quality
steel, or other metal, or other material with strength at least equivalent to
all-steel as certified by bus body manufacturer;
(b) Construction shall provide a water-tight and
reasonably dustproof unit;
(c) Must meet or exceed applicable federal motor
vehicle safety standards for construction, effective December 2, 1993.
(8) Body Sizes: Body manufacturer shall determine the
vehicle’s maximum designed and equipped passenger capacity and post it on the
vehicle with the GVWR and vehicle compliance information.
(9) Brakes:
(a) Air brakes are required on all buses having a
manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or greater;
(b) Buses using air or vacuum in the operation of the
brake system shall be equipped with warning signals, readily audible and
visible to the driver, that will give a continuous warning when the air
pressure available in the system for braking is 60 psi (pounds per square inch)
or less or the vacuum in the system available for braking is 8 inches of
mercury or less. An illuminated gauge shall be provided that will indicate to
the driver, the air pressure in pounds per square inch available for the
operation of the brake.
(A) Vacuum-assist brake systems shall have a reservoir
used exclusively for brakes which shall be adequate to ensure loss in vacuum at
full stroke application of not more than 30 percent with engine not running.
Brake system on gas-powered chassis shall include suitable and convenient
connections for the installation of separate vacuum reservoir;
(B) Any brake system dry reservoir shall be so
safeguarded by a check valve or equivalent device, that in the event of failure
or leakage in its connection to the source of compressed air or vacuum, the
stored dry air or vacuum shall not be depleted by the leakage or failure.
(c) Buses using a hydraulic assist-booster in the
operation of brake system shall be equipped with a warning signal, readily
audible and visible to the driver, which will provide continuous warning in the
event of a loss of fluid pressure from primary source or loss of electric
source powering the backup system;
(d) The brake lines and booster-assist lines shall be
protected from excessive heat and vibrations and be so installed as to prevent
chafing;
(e) All brake systems shall be designed to permit
visual inspection of brake lining wear without removal of any chassis
components except for inspection dust covers or wheels;
(f) Air brake systems shall be equipped with manual
drain valves on all air tanks. A provision shall be made to operate manual
drain valve(s) on first (wet) reservoir(s) from the side of the bus unless one
of the following options is provided:
(A) Automatic moisture ejector on the first (wet)
reservoir;
(B) An air dryer that has the drying ability to insure
an adequate margin of safety under normal and adverse operating conditions;
(C) Skirt-mounted controls for manual drain valve(s)
shall not extend beyond the outer side of bus skirt panel.
(10) Bumper (Front):
(a) The bumper on Type A-2, B, C, and D buses shall be
equivalent in strength and durability to pressed steel channel at least 3/16
inches thick and not less than 8 inches wide (high). It shall extend beyond the
forward-most part of the body, grille, hood and fenders and shall extend to the
outer edges of the fenders at the bumper’s top line.
(b) Type A-1 buses may be equipped with an OEM-supplied
bumper.
(c) The bumper shall be of sufficient strength to
permit pushing or being pushed by another vehicle with the same GVWR on a
smooth surface with a five degree (8.7 percent) grade, without permanent
distortion to the bumper, chassis, or body.
(d) The bumper shall be designed or reinforced so that
it will not deform when the bus is lifted by a chain that is attached to both
tow hooks when the bus is empty and positioned on a level, hard surface and
both tow hooks share the load equally.
(e) Deer guards may be added to a front bumper to
protect the front grill. Deer guards shall not be in any portion of the
driver’s forward view, including use of all mirrors.
(11) Bumper (Rear):
(a) Rear bumper for all body on chassis units shall be
of pressed steel channel or equivalent material at least 3/16-inch thick and
eight inches wide (high), and of sufficient strength to permit pushing by
another vehicle without distortion;
(b) Bumper for all body on chassis units shall wrap
around back corners of bus. It shall extend forward at least 12 inches,
measured from rear-most point of body at floor line;
(c) Bumper shall be attached to chassis frame in such
manner that it may be easily removed, shall be so braced as to develop full
strength of bumper section from rear or side impact, and shall be so attached
as to prevent the insertion of small fingers between the body and bumper;
(d) Bumper shall extend beyond rear-most part of body
surface at least one inch, measured at floor line;
(e) An energy absorbing rear bumper may be used
providing a self-restoring energy absorbing bumper system so attached as to
prevent the hitching of rides and of sufficient strength to permit pushing by
another vehicle without permanent distortion to the bumper, chassis, or body;
(f) The manufacturer of the energy absorbing system
shall provide evidence from an approved test facility (capable of performing
the above FMVSS tests) that their product conforms to the above.
(12) Certification: Manufacturer will, upon request,
certify to the Oregon Department of Education that their product meets minimum
standards on items not covered by FMVSS certification requirements of 49 CFR,
Part 567.
(13) Chains, Automatic: Automatic tire chains
(traction) may be installed at drive wheels in conformance with manufacturer
specifications and any applicable chassis manufacturer standards. (Note:
Air-applied chain systems must comply with air-operated accessory requirement
included in this rule.)
(14) Clutch:
(a) Clutch torque capacity shall be equal to or greater
than, the engine torque output;
(b) A starter interlock shall be installed to prevent
actuation of the starter if the clutch is not depressed on all buses
manufactured after January 1, 1999.
(15) Color:
(a)Chassis and bumpers shall be black; Wheels may be
painted either black or National School Bus Yellow. Type A-1, A-2, and B buses
may have manufacturer standard color wheels.
(b) The school bus body shall be painted a uniform
National School Bus Yellow. The body exterior paint trim, bumper, lamp hoods,
and emergency door lettering shall be black. The engine hood may be painted
low-luster yellow. The roof of the bus may be painted white. The white color
may extend across the roof down to the drip rails or within 6 inches above the
passenger windows on the sides of the bus except that front and rear caps shall
remain National School Bus Yellow. Retroreflective material may be used as trim
on rear bumper;
(16) Crossing Arm: A crossing arm may be mounted on the
front of a school bus in accordance with the following specifications:
(a) Installed on the front bumper as close as
practicable to the right (curb) side, opening left to right and providing an
extension of the curbside of bus;
(b) Arm shall be located at least 18 inches but not
more than 32 inches above ground level and in the closed position; arm shall
not cover numbers on license plate;
(c) Installed in a manner to limit the outward deployment
to 90 degrees from the front bumper;
(d) Arm shall extend 70 inches from the front bumper in
its extended position;
(e) Arm shall be activated through the existing bus
safety light system assuring the driver is required to take no additional
action to either deploy or retract the arm. No outward movement of the arm may
occur before red flashing sequence begins;
(f) Override switches are prohibited;
(g) Crossing arm must be safeguarded from damage due to
pushing or pulling by hand through the use of a clutch-like device or
equivalent, double spring hinges are not acceptable);
(h) The arm may be equipped with an amber flashing
light that functions only when the arm is in the fully extended position;
(i) Entire unit shall have no sharp edges or other
projections that could injure children or others due to casual contact;
(j) Unit shall provide secure mounting opportunities to
prevent misalignment or failure due to extreme weather conditions;
(k) Shall be either air, vacuum, or electrically
operated and in conformance to section (39)(g) of this rule;
(l) Crossing arm color shall be yellow or yellow and
black;
(m) All components and connections shall be
weatherproofed.
(17) Defrosters:
(a) Defrosting and defogging equipment shall direct a
sufficient flow of heated air onto the windshield, the window to the left of
the driver and the glass in the viewing area directly to the right of the
driver to reduce the amount of frost, fog and snow;
(b) The defrosting system shall conform to SAE
performance standards J-381 and 382;
(c) The defroster and defogging system shall be capable
of furnishing heated outside ambient air, except that part of the system
furnishing additional air to the windshield, entrance door and stepwell may be
of the recirculation air type;
(d) Auxiliary fans, if used, shall not be considered as
a defrosting and defogging system:
(A) Auxiliary fans shall be mounted above the
windshield, so as not to interfere with the driver’s vision of the roadway,
mirrors or students outside the bus;
(B) The fan blades shall be covered with a protective
cage.
(18) Doors:
(a) Service door shall be under the driver’s control,
designed to afford easy release and to provide a positive latching device on manual
operating doors to prevent accidental opening. When hand lever is used, no part
shall come together so as to shear or crush fingers. Manual door controls shall
not require more than 25 pounds of force to operate at any point throughout the
range of operation, as tested on a 10% grade, both up hill and downhill;
(b) Service door shall be located on right side of bus
opposite driver and within direct view;
(c) Service door shall have minimum horizontal opening
of 24 inches and minimum vertical opening of 68 inches;
(d) Service door shall be a split-type door and shall
open outward;
(e) If service door is power operated, pressure shall
be controlled by a regulator valve or switch and provision shall be made for
opening the door manually in the event of driver disability or mechanical
failure. Emergency release valve or switch for power operated doors shall be
located in an accessible place, in plain view, as near the service door as
practicable. Valve or switch shall be properly identified and “open” and “closed”
position plainly marked;
(f) All service door windows shall be approved
laminated safety glass. Bottom of lower glass panel shall not be more than ten
inches from top surface of bottom step. Top of upper glass panel shall not be
more than six inches from top of door.
(g) Vertical closing edges on the service door shall be
equipped with flexible material to protect children’s fingers.
(h) There shall be no door to left of driver. (This
shall not be interpreted to conflict with emergency doors or windows.) Type A-1
and A-2 and B buses may be equipped with chassis manufacturers’ left side
driver’s door;
(i) All doors shall be equipped with an energy
absorbing pad at the top edge of each door opening. Pad shall be at least 3
inches wide and 1 inch thick and extend the full width of the door opening.
(19) Drive Shaft: Drive shafts over 24 inches in length
shall be protected by metal guard or guards around circumference of drive shaft
to reduce the possibility of the shaft whipping through floor or dropping to
ground if broken. Guards shall be mounted around front half of each drive shaft
section.
(20) Electrical System:
(a) Battery(ies):
(A) Battery shall have a minimum cold cranking capacity
rating equal to the cranking current required for 30-seconds at 0° Fahrenheit
(-17.8c) and a minimum reserve capacity rating of 120-minutes at 25 amp. Higher
capacities may be needed dependent upon optional equipment and local
environmental conditions;
(B) The manufacturer shall securely attach the
battery(ies) on a slide-out or swing-out tray in a closed, vented compartment
in the body skirt so that the battery(ies) is accessible for convenient
servicing from the outside. Battery compartment(s) door or cover shall be
hinged at front or top and secured by adequate and conveniently operated latch
or other type fastener. Type A-1 and A-2 buses may have battery(ies) mounted
under the hood in an accessible location;
(C) Access to battery shall not be through body floor;
(D) Buses may be equipped with a battery shut-off switch.
The switch shall be placed in a battery compartment or the engine compartment.
(b) Circuits: An appropriate identifying diagram (color
and number coded) for electrical circuits shall be provided to the body
manufacturer for distribution to the end user;
(c) Generator or Alternator:
(A) All buses with a GVWR of 14,500 pounds or less
shall have a generator or alternator with a minimum rating of at least 130
amperes (in accordance with Society of Automotive Engineer rating) with minimum
charging of 50 percent of maximum rated output at manufacturer’s recommended
engine idle speed (12 volt system), and shall be ventilated and
voltage-controlled and, if necessary, current-controlled;
(B) All buses with a GVWR greater than 14,500 pounds
shall have a generator or alternator with a minimum rating of at least 160
amperes (in accordance with Society of Automotive Engineer rating) with minimum
charging of 50 percent of maximum rated output at manufacturer’s recommended
engine idle speed (12 volt system), and shall be ventilated and voltage-controlled
and, if necessary, current-controlled;
(C) Generator or alternator may be direct/gear driven
or belt driven. Belt driven generator or alternators shall be capable of
handling the rated capacity of the generator or alternator with no detrimental
effect on other belt driven components;
(d)
Wiring, Chassis:
(A) General —All wiring shall conform to current
applicable recommended practices of the Society of Automotive Engineers. All
wiring shall use a standard color coding and each chassis shall be delivered
with a wiring diagram that coincides with the wiring of the chassis;
(B) Chassis manufacturer shall install a readily
accessible terminal strip or plug on the body side of the cowl, or at
accessible location in engine compartment of vehicles designed without a cowl,
which shall contain the following terminals for the body connections:
(i) Main 100 amp body circuit;
(ii) Tail lamps;
(iii) Right turn signal;
(iv) Left turn signal;
(v) Stop lamps;
(vi) Back up lamps;
(vii) Instrument panel lights (controlled by dimmer
switch).
(e) Wiring, Body:
(A) All wiring shall conform to current standards of
Society of Automotive Engineers;
(B) Circuits:
(i) Wiring shall be arranged in circuits, as required,
with a circuit protection system. A system of color or number coding shall be
used for all buses purchased after September 1, 1993 and an appropriate
identifying diagram shall be provided the end user along with the wiring
diagram provided by the chassis manufacturer. The following interconnecting
circuits shall be color coded as noted:
(I) Left rear directional light — yellow;
(II) Right rear directional light — dark green;
(III) Stop lights — red;
(IV) Back-up lights — blue;
(V) Tail lights — brown;
(VI) Ground — white;
(VII) Ignition feed, primary feed — black;
(VIII) The color of cables shall correspond to SAE
J1128.
(ii) Wiring shall be arranged in at least seven regular
circuits, as follows:
(I) Head, tail, stop (brake) and instrument panel
lamps;
(II) Clearance and stepwell lamps (stepwell lamp shall
be activated when service door is opened);
(III) Dome lamp;
(IV) Ignition and emergency door signal;
(V) Turn signal lamps;
(VI) School Bus Safety Lights;
(VII) Heaters and defrosters.
(iii) Any of above combination circuits may be
subdivided into additional independent circuits;
(iv) Whenever possible, all other electrical functions
(such as sanders and electric-type windshield wipers) shall be provided with
independent and properly protected circuits.
(C) The entire electrical system of the body shall be
designed for the same voltage as the chassis on which the body is mounted;
(D) All wiring shall have an amperage capacity equal to
or exceeding the designed load. All wiring splices are to be done at an
accessible location and noted as splices on wiring schematic;
(E) Each body circuit shall be coded by number or
letter on a diagram of easily readable size and be furnished with each bus body
or affixed in an area convenient to the electrical accessory control panel;
(F) Body power wire is to be attached to special
terminal on the chassis;
(G) All wires passing through metal openings shall be
protected by a grommet;
(H) Wires not enclosed within body shall be fastened
securely at intervals of not more than 18 inches. All joints shall be soldered
or joined by equally effective connectors and shall be moisture and corrosion
resistant.
(I) A 12-volt power port may be installed in the
driver’s area;
(J) There shall be a non-momentary manual noise
suppression switch installed in the control panel. The switch shall be clearly
labeled and distinguishable from other switches. This switch shall be an on/off
type that deactivates body equipment that produces noise, including the
AM/FM/audio radio, heaters, air conditioners, fans and defrosters. The switch
shall not deactivate safety systems such as windshield wipers or lighting
systems.
(21) Emergency Equipment:
(a) Belt cutter: Each bus equipped with passenger seat
belts or webbed restraining devices shall have a belt cutter mounted in the
driver’s compartment within reach of a driver sitting in the driver’s seat.
Belt cutter shall be of a design offering protected cutting edges to prevent
accidental or intentional injury to drivers or passengers;
(b) Emergency road reflectors:
(A) Each bus shall be equipped with at least three
reflex reflective triangle vehicle warning devices that conform to 49 CFR
581.125;
(B) Reflectors must be in a container securely mounted
with nut-and-bolt fasteners enhanced with large flat (fender) washers or held
in place by a nut-and-bolt mounted metal bracket that also protects and secures
the container lid. Both shall be located in an accessible location. Reflectors
shall not be mounted in any engine compartment;
(c) Body fluid cleanup kit: Buses shall have a
removable moisture proof and dust proof body fluid cleanup kit, mounted in an
accessible place within the driver’s compartment. Contents shall include at
least the following items:
(A) Two pair rubber/latex gloves;
(B) Two four-ounce packages of stabilized chlorine
absorbent deodorant (or equivalent) capable of stabilizing at least 1 liter/36
fl. oz. of body fluids;
(C) One spatula for pick up of congealed fluid;
(D) One plastic bag in which to place congealed fluid;
(E) One red plastic bag with tie, identified for
infectious waste and as a bio-hazard;
(F) One two-ounce bottle of germicidal detergent to
apply to a contaminated area;
(G) Four paper towels to wipe up contaminated area;
(H) One one-ounce antiseptic alcohol hand rinse (or
equivalent);
(I) One placard of step by step use instructions;
(J) Germicidal detergents, stabilized chlorine
absorbent deodorant, alcohol hand rinse, or their equivalents shall provide
documentation of EPA approval regarding their microbiological efficacy for at
least the following:
(i) Staphylococcus aureus;
(ii) Pseudomonas aeruginosa;
(iii) Salmonella choleraesuis;
(iv) Streptococcus species;
(v) Herpes simplex Type II;
(vi) HIV (Associated with AIDS);
(vii) Fungi (athlete’s foot);
(viii) Poliovirus; and
(ix) Tuberculosis.
(K) Documentation of efficacy for Hepatitis B may be
hospital or test studies. The certified effective shelf life of these products
shall be a minimum of 12 months. Product expiration date shall be clearly
displayed on all time-sensitive products.
(d) Fire extinguishers:
(A) Each bus shall be equipped with at least one
pressurized, dry, chemical type fire extinguisher, mounted in a bracket,
located in the driver’s compartment, and readily accessible. A pressure gauge
shall be mounted on the extinguisher so as to be readily read without removing
the extinguisher from its mounted position;
(B) The fire extinguisher shall be of a type approved
by the Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., with a rating of not less than 2 A-10
BC. The extinguisher shall have a minimum five pound capacity and equipped with
a hose and nozzle;
(C) The operating mechanism shall be sealed with a type
of seal that will not interfere with the use of the fire extinguisher;
(D) Extinguishers with plastic heads are not permitted.
(e) First aid kit:
(A) Each bus shall have a readily removable, moisture
proof and dustproof first-aid kit container mounted in an accessible place
within driver’s compartment;
(B) The first aid kit contains a minimum of 24 units
that shall include the following:
(i) One 1” adhesive compress — 16 per unit;
(ii) Two 2” bandage compress — 4 per unit;
(iii) Two 3” bandage compress — 2 per unit;
(iv) Two 4” bandage compress — 1 per unit;
(v) Two 3” x 3” plain gauze pads — 4 per unit;
(vi) Two 2” x 6 yards gauze roller bandage — 1
per unit;
(vii) Three 1/2 square yard gauze;
(viii) Three 24” x 72” gauze;
(ix) Four triangular bandages;
(x) One 1/2 x 5 yard adhesive tape-one per unit;
(xi) One round nose scissors and tweezers. Latex
gloves-one pair; and
(xii) One micro shield for mouth to mouth airway (to
lay on top of other contents).
(C) Specific local requirements may be substituted in
lieu of 2 units of 1/2 square yard gauze.
(f) Any piece of emergency equipment may be mounted in
an enclosed compartment, provided the compartment is labeled in not less than 1
inch letters, identifying each piece of equipment contained therein. If
emergency road reflectors are stored outside the driver’s compartment, the
location of the triangles shall be displayed in a readily viewable location by
the driver in minimum 1 inch letters.
(22) Emergency Exits:
(a) All emergency exits and doors shall comply with the
design and performance requirements of FMVSS No. 217, Bus Emergency Exits and
Window Retention and Release applicable to that type of exit.
(b) In addition to the requirements of FMVSS No. 217,
all emergency exits and doors shall meet the additional requirements:
(A) Doors:
(i) Upper portion of emergency door shall be equipped
with approved safety glazing, exposed area of not less than 400 square inches;
(ii) Lower portion of rear emergency door shall be
equipped with approved safety glass and shall have an exposed area of not less
than 350 square inches of approved safety glazing;
(iii) There shall be no steps leading to emergency
door;
(iv) Clearance between outside emergency door handle
and emergency door shall not exceed ¼ inch when handle is in the closed
position. Handle shall not provide a firm handhold for someone trying to
“hitch” a ride. Handles shall be positioned to prevent snagging of clothing or
pinching of fingers;
(v) Emergency door hinge shall not provide an opening
for insertion of fingers when door is closed;
(vi) An adequately padded head bumper shall be placed
on the interior directly above any emergency exit door opening. The pad shall
extend the full width of the door opening and shall be at least three inches
wide and one inch thick;
(vii) If emergency door is lockable, provision must be
made to prevent the bus from starting while the door is locked. An audible
warning which does not affect engine operation shall be provided to alert the
driver should the door be locked while the bus is in operation; and
(viii) Emergency doors shall be labeled “Emergency
Door” in minimum 2 inch letters that contrast with the background at the top
of, or immediately above, the emergency door on both the inside and outside of
the bus;
(B) Rear Push-Out Window:
(i) Rear push-out window shall be operable from inside
or outside the bus;
(ii) Rear push-out window shall have a lifting
assistance device that will aid in lifting and holding the rear emergency
window open; and
(iii) If rear push-out window is lockable, provision
must be made to prevent the bus from starting while the exit is locked. An
audible warning which does not affect engine operation shall be provided to
alert the driver should the exit be locked while the bus is in operation;
(C) Swing-Out Windows:
(i) Swing-out windows are windows along the side of the
bus with a hinge that is opposite of the emergency release so that it
“swings-out” when opened. Swing-out windows may be hinged along any edge of the
window. If the hinge is installed vertically, it shall be installed on the
forward side of the window;
(ii) Swing-out windows shall not be located above a stop
arm;
(iii) Swing-out windows shall provide a minimum clear
opening of 18” x 24”; and
(iv) Swing-out windows that are inoperable from the
outside shall include the message “Operates From Inside Only” adjacent to the
outside “Emergency Exit” labeling required under FVMSS No. 217;
(D) Roof Hatches:
(i) Roof hatch shall be waterproof and provide a
minimum clear opening of 16” x 16”;
(ii) When a release mechanism on the roof hatch is open
and the vehicle’s ignition is in the “on” position, a continuous warning shall
be audible at the drivers seating position; and
(iii) Roof hatch may also serve as a roof ventilator;
however, this shall not be used in place of the required static vent.
(c) Each bus shall be equipped with:
(A) A rear emergency exit door and one roof hatch; or
(B) A left side emergency exit door, a rear emergency
push out window, and one roof hatch.
(d) Buses equipped with a rear emergency exit door and
roof hatch (as in (c)(A) above) require additional emergency exits based on the
maximum design passenger capacity listed below:
(A) Buses designed or equipped with a maximum design
passenger capacity of 1 to 22 shall also provide:
(i) 2 swing-out windows placed at approximately the
midpoint of the passenger compartment; or
(ii) Side windows with a 12 inch vertical drop.
(B) Buses designed or equipped with a maximum design
passenger capacity of 23 to 45 shall also provide:
(i) Left side emergency door; or
(ii) 2 swing-out windows at approximately the midpoint
of the passenger compartment.
(C) Buses designed or equipped with a maximum design
passenger capacity of 46 and above shall also provide one additional roof hatch
and:
(i) Left side emergency door; or
(ii) 4 swing-out windows at approximately the midpoint
of the passenger compartment, but not immediately adjacent to each other.
(e) Buses equipped with a left side door and rear
push-out window (as in (c)(B) above) require additional emergency exits based
on the maximum design passenger capacity listed below:
(A) Buses designed or equipped with a maximum design
passenger capacity of 1 to 22 shall also provide:
(i) 2 swing-out windows placed at approximately the
midpoint of the passenger compartment; or
(ii) Side windows with a 12 inch vertical drop.
(B) Buses designed or equipped with a maximum design
passenger capacity of 23 to 45 shall also provide two swing out windows.
(C) Buses designed or equipped with a maximum design
passenger capacity of 46 and above shall also provide one additional roof hatch
and:
(i) Right side emergency door; or
(ii) Four swing-out windows.
(f) Any additional emergency exits necessary to comply
with the “additional emergency exit area” requirements of FMVSS No. 217 shall
be made by the vehicle purchaser.
(g) Manufacturer shall identify all emergency exits
used for calculations relating to this rule and FMVSS No. 217 compliance and
list the daylight (clear) opening for each exit.
(h) All emergency exits shall be marked on the exterior
perimeter with one inch retroreflective yellow material that meets the
retroreflectivity requirements of section (53) of this rule. The color of the
retroreflective material may be white for a roof hatch on a white roof.
(23) Engine Compartment Fire Suppression System:
Automatic fire extinguisher systems may be installed in the engine compartment
on buses. System shall have a visible gauge easily read from the driver’s seat
and a manual activation switch clearly identified and located in the driver’s
compartment. The entire system must be UL (Underwriters Laboratories) approved
and assure protection from passenger compartment. Extinguisher system manual
activation switch/control shall be safeguarded from accidental activation by a
pull-pin or equivalent device. The extinguisher, if mounted in the passenger compartment,
shall not be readily removable for use elsewhere, but dedicated for the engine
compartment.
(24) Exhaust System:
(a) Exhaust pipe, muffler, and tailpipe shall be
outside bus body compartment and attached to chassis;
(b) Tailpipe shall be constructed of a
corrosion-resistant tubing material at least equal in strength and durability
to 16 gauge steel tubing;
(c) Tailpipe shall meet one of the following options:
(A) Tailpipe may exit in the rear of the bus provided
it:
(a) Does not create a hand hold.
(b) Does not create a step.
(c) Exhaust is defused away from passenger compartment.
(B) Tailpipe may extend to, but not beyond the body
limits on the left side of the bus forward or rearward of the rear tires
outboard of chassis centerline as described in sub-section (c)(C) of this
section. If the tailpipe terminates forward of the rear tires it shall
terminate not more than 24 inches or less than 6 inches forward of rear tires.
No tailpipe shall terminate beneath any emergency exit or fuel fill receptacle;
(C) Tailpipe shall not exit the right side of the
vehicle.
(d) Exhaust system shall be properly insulated from
fuel tank and connections by securely attached metal shield at any point where
it is 12 inches or less from tank or tank connections;
(e) Muffler shall be constructed of corrosion-resistant
material.
(25) Fenders, Front:
(a) Total spread of outer edges of front fenders,
measured at fender line, shall exceed total spread of front tires when front
wheels are in straight-ahead position;
(b) When equipped, front fenders shall be properly
braced and free from any body attachments.
(26) Floor:
(a) Floor in under seat area, including tops of wheel
housing, driver’s compartment and toe board, shall be covered with rubber floor
covering or equivalent having minimum overall thickness of .125 inch:
(A) Floor covering in aisle shall be of aisle-type
fire-resistant rubber or equivalent, wear-resistant and ribbed or equivalent
non-slip material. Minimum overall thickness shall be .1875 inch measured from
tops of ribs;
(B) Floor covering shall be permanently bonded to floor
and shall not crack when subjected to sudden changes in temperature. Bonding or
adhesive material shall be waterproof and shall be of type recommended by
manufacturer of floor-covering material. All seams shall be sealed with
waterproof sealer.
(b) Edge of floor at stepwell shall be treated as a
step edge and shall be protected as required in section (59)(f)(C) of this
rule;
(c) A vapor and liquid proof inspection plate provided
for access to the fuel tank sending may be installed;
(d) A subfloor of 5-ply plywood, at least 5/8 inch
nominal thickness or equivalent, shall be installed over the standard school
bus floor. Plywood shall equal or exceed properties of exterior grade C-C
plywood as specified in NIST PS 1. Floor shall be level from front to back and
from side to side except for wheel housing, toe board and driver’s seat
platform areas;
(e) Plywood sub-floor may be replaced with an
equivalent material provided it has equal or greater insulation R-value, sound
abatement, deterioration-resistant, and moisture-resistant properties.
(27) Frame:
(a) Frame shall be of such design and strength
characteristics as to correspond at least to standard practice, for trucks of
same general load characteristics which are used for highway service;
(b) Any secondary manufacturer that modifies the
original chassis frame shall guarantee the performance of workmanship and
materials resulting from such modification;
(c) Any frame modification shall not be for the purpose
of extending the wheelbase;
(d) Holes in top or bottom flanges of frame side rail
shall not be permitted except as provided in original chassis frame. There
shall be no welding to frame side rails except by manufacturer;
(e) Frame lengths shall be established in accordance
with the design criteria for the complete vehicle.
(28) Fuel System:
(a) The following fuels may be used:
(A) Diesel, including biodiesel blends,
(B) Gasoline, including ethanol blends,
(C) Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG),
(D) Compressed Natural Gas (CNG),
(E) Duel fuel systems using any combination of (A)
through (D) above, provided that the system:
(i) Meets Environmental Protection Agency
specifications;
(ii) Meets vehicle manufacture specifications; and
(iii) Has been approved by the Oregon Department of
Education.
(F) Other fuels may be approved by the Oregon
Department of Education upon request.
(b) Buses with a capacity of 57 or less shall be
equipped with one or more fuel tanks that provide a combined liquid capacity of
not less than 30 gallons.
(c) Buses with a capacity of 58 or more shall be
equipped with one or more fuel tanks that provide a combined liquid capacity of
not less than 60 gallons.
(d) The actual draw capacity of each fuel tank shall be
a minimum of 83 percent of the tank capacity.
(e) No portion of the fuel system, which is located
outside of the engine compartment, except the filler tube, shall extend above
the top of the chassis frame rail. Fuel lines shall be mounted to obtain
maximum possible protection from the chassis frame;
(f) Fuel filter with replaceable element shall be
installed between fuel tank and engine;
(g) Tank(s) shall be mounted, filled and vented outside
of body. The tank(s) location shall not permit fuel spillage to drip or drain
on any portion of the exhaust system.
(i) Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) systems shall comply
with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gas
Code.
(29) G.P.S. Navigation: A G.P.S. navigation unit may be
installed. The unit shall not block any windows, gauges or indicator lights
that are required. Portable units shall use an installed 12 volt power port.
(30) Governor:
(a) An electronic engine speed limiter shall be
provided and set to limit engine speed, not to exceed the maximum revolutions
per minute, as recommended by the engine manufacturer.
(b) When it is desired to limit road speed, a
road-speed governor should be installed;
(31) Heaters:
(a) At least one heater of hot water type shall be required;
(b) If only one heater is used, it shall be of
fresh-air or combination fresh-air and recirculation type;
(c) If more than one heater is used, additional heaters
may be of recirculation air type;
(d) The heating system shall be capable of maintaining
throughout the bus a temperature of not less than 50 degree Fahrenheit at
average minimum January temperature as established by the National Weather
Service, for the area in which the vehicle is to be operated;
(e) All heaters shall bear a name plate which shall
indicate the heater rating in accordance with SBMTC Standard No. 001, said
plate to be affixed by the heater manufacturer which shall constitute
certification that the heater performance is as shown on the plate;
(f) Heater hoses shall be adequately supported to guard
against excessive wear due to vibration. The hoses shall not dangle or rub
against the chassis or sharp edges, and shall not interfere with or restrict
the operation of any engine function. Heater hose shall conform to SAE J20c. Heater
hoses on the interior of the bus shall be shielded to prevent scalding of the
driver or passengers;
(g) Each hot water heater system installed by a body
manufacturer shall include a shutoff valve installed in the pressure and return
lines near the engine in an accessible location. There shall be a water flow
regulating valve or airflow regulating door for the front heater installed for
convenient operation by the driver while seated;
(h) Return heater lines on body company installed
heaters shall be equipped with bleeder valves in an accessible location to
allow for removal of heater line air;
(i) Auxiliary fuel-fired combustion heating systems may
be installed, provided that:
(A) The auxiliary heating system shall be marked
plainly with certification stating “Meets FMCSA Bus Heater Requirements”
(B) The auxiliary heating system shall utilize the same
type of fuel as specified for the vehicle engine;
(C) The auxiliary heating system may be direct, hot
air-type or may be connected to the engine coolant system;
(D) When connected to the engine coolant system, the
auxiliary heating system may be used to preheat the engine coolant or preheat
and add supplementary heat to the heating system, or both;
(E) Auxiliary heating systems shall be installed
pursuant to the manufacturer’s recommendations outside of the passenger
compartment;
(F) Exhaust from auxiliary heating system shall not
exit the right side of the bus;
(G) Installation of auxiliary heating system shall not
compromise the requirements of Title 49 CFR Part 579.301 Fuel System Integrity
(j) Portable heaters shall not be used.
(32) Horn: Bus shall be equipped with horn or horns of
standard make, each horn capable of producing complex sound in bands of audio
frequencies between approximately 250 and 2,000 cycles per second and tested
per SAE Standard J-377.
(33) Identification:
(a) School buses shall bear the words “SCHOOL BUS” in
black capitol series letters at least eight inches high and of proportionate
width on both front and rear of bus. Lettering shall be placed as high as
possible without impairment of its visibility. The background shall be a
maximum of 12 inches by 36 inches and shall be either:
(A) Retroreflective material that that conforms to the
retroreflectivity requirements of section (53); or
(B) Illuminated
(b) A warning sign shall be installed on the rear of
all school buses calling attention to the school bus stop law. It shall be
located in the most attainable vertical center of the rear emergency door,
between the upper and lower windows. Signs on rear engine transit type buses
shall be vertically centered and horizontally adjacent to the left and right
upper brake lights. Sign shall be either:
(A) A decal with white retroreflectorized letters that
conform to the retroreflective requirements listed in section (53) of this rule
mounted on a flat black background. The word message shall be centered
horizontally and vertically on the decal. The decal shall have the lettering
shown below: UNLAWFUL TO PASS (3 inches in height) WHEN (1 inches in height)
RED LIGHTS FLASH (3 inches in height) or:
(B) An electronic sign that displays warning messages
to motorists. The electronic sign:
(i) Shall be sealed weather tight construction
approximately 23½” X 8¾” X 1½” in size.
(ii) Shall be connected to the school bus safety
lights;
(iii) Shall alternately flash the word message
“CAUTION” and the word message “STOPPING” when the amber school bus safety
lights are active. The letters in the word messages shall be amber with a
minimum height of three inches;
(iv) Shall alternately flash the word message “STOP”
and the word message “DO NOT PASS” when the red school bus lights are active.
The letters in the word messages shall be red with a minimum of three inches;
(v) May flash or display the word message “CAUTION” or
the word message “CAUTION STOPPING” when the hazard lights are activated. The
letters in the word message shall be amber with a minimum height of three
inches;
(vi) May flash or display the word message “CAUTION”
when the backup lights are activated. The letters in the word message shall be
amber with a minimum height of three inches;
(vii) Shall have a minimum viewing angle of 15 degrees
on each side of the perpendicular axis;
(viii) Flashing messages may be controlled by the
hazard light and school bus safety light flashers; and
(ix) Word and picture messages shall be clearly visible
in direct sunlight from a distance of 500 ft along the axis of the vehicle;
(x) L.E.D. lights, if used, shall be of sufficient
quantity to result in a clear and legible message.
(C) An electronic sign that displays warning messages
to motorists may be placed on the front of the bus provided that:
(i) There is an electronic sign on the back of the bus
per section (B) above;
(ii) The sign shall only be wired to the amber and red
bus safety lights; and
(iii) The sign shall be mounted below the windshield,
vertically centered.
(c) The name of the school district, private school, or
parochial school, and contractor name if applicable, shall be placed on the
left and right sides of the bus. The name shall appear in the area directly
below the side windows and the letters and figures in the name shall not be
less than four inches nor more than seven inches in height and of proportionate
width;
(d) School team name or contractor’s insignia may be
placed above the side windows on the front portion of the bus body. All such
lettering must be approved by the Pupil Transportation Section of the Oregon
Department of Education;
(e) One bus identification number at least four inches
in height shall be placed on a flat vertical surface on each side and on the
front and rear of the bus. At least one complete bus identification number
shall be visible from any point 50 feet from the bus. Type A-1 and A-2 bus
numbers may be three inches in height.
(f) Only signs and lettering approved by state law or
by the regulations of the Department of Education shall appear on the inside or
outside of a school bus.
(g) Optional identification and lettering may be added
to the vehicle as outlined below:
(i) Bus identification number on top of the bus.
Numbers shall be black and a minimum of 12 inches high;
(ii) The location of the battery(ies) identified by the
word “BATTERY” or “BATTERIES” in black letters on the battery compartment door
in 2 inch capitol series letters;
(iii) Manufacture or dealer identification or logos.
Placement must be approved by the Pupil Transportation Section of the Oregon
Department of Education;
(iv) Identification of fuel type on or adjacent to the
fuel filler opening in 2 inch black capitol series letters;
(v) Symbols, letters, or numbers not to exceed 64
square inches of total display near the entrance door, displaying information
for identification by the students of the bus or route served;
(34) Inside Height:
(a) Clear inside body height for type A-1 buses shall
be a minimum of 62 inches measured at any point on the longitudinal center line
from the front vertical bow to the rear vertical bow.
(b) Clear inside body height for all other buses shall
be a minimum of 72 inches. or more measured at any point on the longitudinal
center line from front vertical bow to rear vertical bow.
(c) Height requirements do not apply to air
conditioning units installed in the passenger compartment when installed to
manufacture’s specifications.
(35) Instruments, Gauges, and Indicators:
(a) Bus shall be equipped with following instruments
and gauges. (Telltale warning lights in lieu of gauges are not acceptable
except as noted):
(A) Speedometer;
(B) Odometer, which will give accrued mileage including
tenths of miles;
(C) Voltmeter: A graduated charge and discharge ammeter
compatible with generating capacities is permitted in lieu of or in addition to
a voltmeter;
(D) Oil-pressure gauge;
(E) Water temperature gauge;
(F) Fuel gauge;
(G) High beam headlight indicator light;
(H) Air pressure or vacuum gauge according to brake
system used: Light indicator or gauge required on vehicle equipped with
hydraulic-over hydraulic brake system;
(I) Turn signal indicator light;
(J) Tachometer on type B, C, or D buses. Tachometer is
optional on Type A buses;
(K) Glow plug indicator light, where appropriate.
(L) Fog light indicator, if fog lights are installed.
(M) Bus safety light pilot lamps / monitors: Each bus
shall be equipped with 2 illuminated pilot lamps, one amber and one red. The
placement of these lamps shall be in accordance with other telltale light
placement requirements in 49 CFR 571.101 Controls and Displays. Pilot lamps
shall provide an unmistakable indication that the flasher system is operating
and an unmistakable indication if any circuit is broken, any lamp is not
operating or the system is not otherwise functioning normally.
(b) All instruments shall be easily accessible for
maintenance and repair;
(c) Above instruments and gauges shall be mounted on
instrument panel in such a manner that each is clearly visible to and lies
within a 140 degree field of vision for a 95th percentile female
anthropomorphic dummy while in normal seated position;
(d) Instrument panel shall have lamps of sufficient
candlepower to illuminate all instruments and gauges and shift selector indicator
for automatic transmission.
(e) All control and indicator lights shall be dimmable
except telltale lights. Control and indicator lights may be controlled by one
or two dimmer switches.
(36) Insulation:
(a) Ceiling and walls shall be insulated with proper
material to deaden sound and to reduce vibration to a minimum.
(b) Thermal insulation that is fire-resistant,
non-water absorbing, UL approved, with a minimum R-value of 5.5 shall be
installed in the ceiling and walls;
(c) If floor insulation is desired it shall be
installed in accordance with the floor section of this rule.
(37) Interior:
(a) Interior of bus shall be free of all projections,
including but not limited to luggage/book racks or attendant hand holds, that
can cause injury in the event of a collision or rollover.
(b) The ceilings and walls shall have an inner lining.
(c) If ceiling is constructed with lap joints, forward
panel shall be lapped by rear panel and exposed edges shall be beaded, hemmed,
flanged or otherwise treated to minimize sharp edges;
(d) Buses shall assure noise level taken at the ear of
the occupant nearest to the primary vehicle noise source shall not exceed 85
DBA when tested according to the Noise Test Procedure.
(38) Lamps and Signals:
(a) All lamps, signals, and reflectors shall comply
with the design and performance requirements of FMVSS No. 108, Lamps,
reflective devices, and associated equipment; Oregon Revised Statutes, Chapter
816, Vehicle Equipment: Lights; and Oregon Administrative rules, Chapter 735,
Division 108, Lighting Equipment applicable to that type of lamp, signal or
reflector.
(b) The following lights shall be installed with any
additional requirements listed:
(A) Back-up lamps: The bus shall be equipped with 2
white rear back-up lamps that have a minimum illuminated area of 12 square
inches. If back up lamps are placed in the same horizontal line as the
tail-stop lamps and turn signal lamps, they shall be to the inside.
(B) Back-up warning alarm: An automatic audible alarm
shall be installed on the rear of the bus that complies with SAE 994 Back-Up
Alarm Standard specifying a minimum of 97±4db(A).
(C) Bus Safety Lights:
(i) Shall have red and amber flashing lights installed
in accordance with SAE Standard J887. Each amber light shall be located near
each red signal lamp, at the same level, but closer to the vertical centerline
of the bus.
(ii) The area around each lens of the bus safety lights
shall be painted black, extending outward a minimum of 3 inches where
practicable.
(iii) The front bus safety lights shall be visible
either directly or indirectly from inside the bus.
(iv) A separate fuse or circuit breaker, adequate to
prevent damage to the system in the event of a short circuit, shall be provided
between the power source and flasher system.
(v) The system shall be wired so that the system is
activated by a manually operated spring-loaded switch that is clearly labeled
and distinguishable from other switches.
(vi) A circuit master switch, if installed, shall be
part of the activation switch outlined in (v) above.
(vii) Buses equipped with power-controlled entrance
doors may have an additional spring loaded switch that will activate the red
school bus safety lights prior to opening the entrance door or keep the red bus
safety lights on after closing the entrance door.
(viii) The flashing mechanism shall be capable of
carrying the full current load of the signal system.
(ix) Each lamp shall have a minimum illumination area
of 38 square inches, flash a minimum of 60 times per minute, and be clearly
visible in direct sunlight from a distance of 500ft along the axis of the
vehicle.
(x) The Bus Safety Light System shall operate as
follows:
(I) The bus safety light activation switch shall
activate the amber safety lights when the entrance door is closed or red safety
lights when the entrance door is open;
(II) When amber safety lights are activated, they shall
automatically deactivate and the red safety lights shall automatically activate
when the entrance door is opened;
(III) Once active, the red safety lights shall
automatically deactivate when the entrance door is closed;
(IV) No bus safety lights shall activate when the
entrance door is opened without first pressing the bus safety light activation
switch;
(V) Buses equipped with power-controlled entrance doors
may have an additional spring loaded switch that will activate the red school
bus safety lights prior to opening the entrance door or keep the red bus safety
lights on after closing the entrance door.
(VI) The amber bus safety lights and red bus safety
lights shall not flash at the same time.
(VII) There shall be a canceling switch that will
deactivate the bus safety lights and activation sequence if they are
accidentally activated or if the driver discovers there is no need to make a
stop after activating the switch.
(D) Clearance lamps;
(E) Headlamps;
(F) Identification Lamps;
(G) Fog lamps may be installed:
(i) Fog lamps shall be mounted symmetrically around the
front centerline of the bus, below the headlights not less than 12 inches no
more than 30 inches above the ground;
(ii) Fog lamps shall be wired to a separate switch,
pilot light and shall only come on when the low beam head lights are on.
(H) Interior dome lamps: Interior lamps shall be
provided which will adequately illuminate interior aisles. There shall be at
least one interior lamp for every two rows of passenger seats. One or two rear
dome lamp(s) shall be wired through a separate switch unless there are less
than five rows of seats.
(I) Reflectors
(J) Side Marker Lamps;
(K) Stepwell Lamp: A stepwell lamp shall be provided
which will adequately illuminate the entire stepwell. The lamp circuit shall be
wired through the headlamp or clearance lamp system and shall be activated only
when the door is opened.
(L) Strobe Lamp: A white flashing strobe lamp may be
installed on the longitudinal center of the roof on the rear third of the bus,
but no closer than one foot from the rear of the bus.
(i) The lamp shall have a single clear lens emitting
light 360 degrees around its vertical axis and may not extend above the roof
more than 6-1/2 inches, or exceed maximum legal vehicle height.
(ii) The lamp shall have a separate switch and be wired
through the vehicle hazard lamp system. A pilot lamp to indicate when the light
is in operation is required.
(F) Tail
lamps & Stop lamps: Buses shall be equipped with four combination red
tail-stop lamps.
(i) Two combination lamps with a minimum 38 square
inches of illuminated area shall be mounted immediately inside of, and in line
with, the rear turn signal lamps.
(ii) Two combination lamps with a minimum 12 square
inches of illuminated area shall be placed on the rear of the bus between the
beltline and the floor line. The horizontal centerline of the lights shall be a
maximum of 12 inches above the floor line.
(iii) Stop lamps shall be activated by the service
brakes and shall emit a steady light when illuminated.
(M) Turn Signals:
(i) Front signals shall either
(I) have a minimum illuminated area of 38 square
inches; or
(II) be manufacturer’s standard front turn signals for
Type A.
(ii) Rear signals shall have a minimum illuminated area
of 38 square inches and be placed as wide apart as practical with the
horizontal centerline a maximum of 12 inches below the rear window.
(iii) Side signals: A turn signal lamp with a minimum
of 4 candlepower shall be mounted on each side of the bus at approximately seat
level height, located to the rear of the entrance door on the right side, and
to the rear of the stop arm on the left side. Side turn signals should be in
approximately the same location on each side of the bus. Additional side turn
signals may be installed if the horizontal centerline is the same for all side
turn signals, and additional signals are in the same approximate location on
each side of the bus.
(iv) All turn signal lamps shall be amber in color.
(v) All turn signal lamps shall be independent units
and connected to turn signal switch and four-way hazard warning switch that
will cause all turn signals to flash simultaneously.
(39) Metal Treatment:
(a) All metal used in construction of bus body shall be
zinc- or aluminum-coated or treated by equivalent process before bus is
constructed. Included are such items as structural members, inside and outside
panels and floor sills; excluded are such items as door handles, grab handles,
interior decorative parts and other interior plated parts;
(b) All metal parts that will be painted shall be (in
addition to above requirements) chemically cleaned, etched, zinc-phosphate
coated and zinc-chromate or epoxy primed or conditioned by equivalent process;
(c) In providing for these requirements, particular
attention shall be given lapped surfaces, welded connections of structural
members, cut edges, punched or drilled hole areas in sheet metal, closed or box
sections, un-vented or un-drained areas and surfaces subjected to abrasion
during vehicle operation;
(d) As evidence that above requirements have been met,
samples of materials and sections used in construction of bus shall be
subjected to a cyclic corrosion testing as outlined in SAE J1563.
(40) Mirrors:
(a) Exterior Mirror Systems:
(A) Bus shall be equipped with mirror systems complying
with 49 CFR Part 571, FMVSS 111 as adopted by the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration for December 3, 1993 implementation, plus all applicable
standards specified in this rule;
(B) Manufacturer shall certify compliance with mirror
and direct/indirect visibility standards listed in the aforementioned FMVSS
111.
(b) Interior Mirror:
(A) Interior mirror shall be either laminated or
tempered. Mirror shall be a minimum of 6” x 30”. Mirror shall have rounded
corners and protected edges;
(B) Type A buses shall be equipped with a mirror that
is 6” x 16” or providing at least 96 square inches of flat mirror surface;
(C) Bus seller shall certify compliance with mirror and
direct/indirect visibility standards listed in the aforementioned FMVSS 111 and
provide a copy to used bus purchasers when certification is not available from
manufacturer for all buses manufactured prior to January 1, 1994.
(41) Mounting:
(a) Chassis frame shall support rear body cross member.
Bus body shall be attached to chassis frame at each main floor sill, except
where chassis components interfere, in such a manner as to prevent shifting or
separation of body from chassis under severe operating conditions;
(b) Body front shall be attached and sealed to chassis
in such manner as to prevent entry of water, dust or fumes through joint
between chassis cowl and body;
(c) When floor is provided by bus body manufacturer,
adequate insulating padding shall be placed at all contact points between body
and chassis frame. Insulating material shall be approximately 1/4-inch thick
and shall be so attached as to prevent movement under severe operating
conditions.
(42) Mud Flaps:
(a) Mud flaps or splash aprons are required for rear
wheels on all school buses;
(b) Flaps shall be of heavy-duty rubberized material or
equivalent and shall extend at least the full width of tires from a point above
the center of the tires to a point not more than ten inches above the surface
of the highway when such vehicle is empty.
(43) Oil Filter: Oil filter of replaceable element or
cartridge type shall be provided and shall be connected by flexible oil lines
if it is not built-in or engine mounted design. Oil filter shall have a
capacity in accordance with the engine manufacturer’s recommendation.
(44) Openings: All openings in floorboard or firewall
between chassis and passenger-carrying compartment, such as for gearshift lever
and parking brake lever, shall be sealed. Access plates to cover openings shall
have adequate gaskets and be fastened securely.
(45) Overall Length: Maximum length for school buses
shall be limited to 45 feet.
(46) Overall Width: Overall width of bus shall not
exceed 8.5 feet. The mirrors may exceed the maximum allowable width by a
distance of not greater than five inches on each side of the vehicle.
(47) Overhang: Body shall be so mounted as to comply
with requirements described in chassis weight distribution standard. Body
length extending beyond the rear axle shall not exceed three-fourths the length
of the vehicle’s wheel base per Oregon Vehicle Code.
(48) Passenger Load:
(a) Actual gross vehicle weight (GVW) is the sum of the
chassis wet weight, plus the body weight, plus the driver’s weight, plus total
seated pupil weight:
(A) For purposes of calculation, the driver’s weight is
250 pounds;
(B) For purposes of calculation, the pupil weight is
120 pounds per pupil.
(b) Actual gross vehicle weight (GVW) shall not exceed
the chassis manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross axle
weight rating (GAWR) for the chassis;
(c) Manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating and
other chassis information shall be furnished by the manufacturer, the
manufacturer’s representative or seller to the Oregon Department of Education
on forms furnished by the department.
(49) Power and Gradeability: Gross vehicle weight (GVW)
shall not exceed 165 pounds per net published horsepower of the engine at the
manufacturer’s recommended maximum number of revolutions per minute.
(50) Racks: The installation of any kind of exterior
luggage rack outside the bus is prohibited. This does not prohibit enclosed
luggage compartments.
(51) Radios and Public Address Systems:
(a) Buses shall be equipped with a public address
system having interior and exterior speakers and a switch to separate inside
and outside speaker systems.
(b) AM/FM/audio radio may be installed
(c) Interior speakers mounted in the ceiling panels or
side panels shall be either flush mounted or may protrude not more than 1-1/2
inches if the speaker housing is free of any corners or projections which can
cause injury by striking with the head or in the event of a collision or
rollover. Speakers protruding more than 1-1/2 inches may be mounted in the
vertical end panels above the windshield or back windows as long as speakers
are free of corners or projections that could cause injury;
(d) Speakers shall not be placed above any aisle or
within four feet of the driver’s seat back in its rearmost upright position;
(52) Retarder System: Retarder system, if installed,
shall maintain the speed of the fully loaded school bus at 19.0 MPH on a seven
percent grade for 3.6 miles without incurring damage to the retarder or
vehicle.
(53) Retroreflective Material and Placement:
(a) Red: when used or required, red retroreflective
material shall meet or exceed ASDM D4956 standards for type V super
high-intensity sheeting and have a coefficient of retroreflection equal to or
greater than:
(A) 120 for an observation angle of 0.2 degrees and a
light entrance angle of -4 degrees; and
(B) 72 for an observation angle of 0.2 degrees and a
light entrance angle of +30 degrees; and
(C) 28 for an observation angle of 0.5 degrees and a
light entrance angle of -4 degrees; and
(D) 13 for an observation angle of 0.5 degrees and a
light entrance angle of +30 degrees;
(b) White: when used or required, white retroreflective
material shall meet or exceed ASDM D4956 standards for type V super
high-intensity sheeting and have a coefficient of retroreflection equal to or
greater than:
(A) 700 for an observation angle of 0.2 degrees and a
light entrance angle of -4 degrees; and
(B) 400 for an observation angle of 0.2 degrees and a
light entrance angle of +30 degrees; and
(C) 160 for an observation angle of 0.5 degrees and a
light entrance angle of -4 degrees; and
(D) 75 for an observation angle of 0.5 degrees and a
light entrance angle of +30 degrees;
(E) Exception: white retroreflective material on the
“unlawful to pass” sign shall meet or exceed ASDM D4956 standards for type I
engineering grade sheeting and have a coefficient of retroreflection equal to
or greater than:
(i) 70 for an observation angle of 0.2 degrees and a
light entrance angle of -4 degrees; and
(ii) 30 for an observation angle of 0.2 degrees and a
light entrance angle of +30 degrees; and
(iii) 30 for an observation angle of 0.5 degrees and a
light entrance angle of -4 degrees; and
(iv) 15 for an observation angle of 0.5 degrees and a
light entrance angle of +30 degrees;
(c) Yellow: when used or required, yellow
retroreflective material shall meet or exceed ASDM D4956 standards for type V
super high-intensity sheeting and have a coefficient of retroreflection equal
to or greater than:
(A) 470 for an observation angle of 0.2 degrees and a
light entrance angle of -4 degrees; and
(B) 270 for an observation angle of 0.2 degrees and a
light entrance angle of +30 degrees; and
(C) 110 for an observation angle of 0.5 degrees and a
light entrance angle of -4 degrees; and
(D) 51 for an observation angle of 0.5 degrees and a
light entrance angle of +30 degrees;
(d) All retroreflective material shall maintain at
least 50 percent of the coefficient of retroreflection for a minimum of six
years.
(e) Bumpers may be marked diagonally 45 degrees down to
centerline of pavement with two-inch wide strips of black retroreflective
material.
(f) Rub Rails may have retroreflective black material.
(g) The rear of the bus body shall be marked with
strips of retroreflective yellow material that is a minimum of 1 inch and a
maximum of 2 inches to outline the perimeter of the back of the bus. The
horizontal strips shall be placed above the rear windows, and immediately above
the bumper. Both horizontal strips shall extend to each rear corner of the bus.
The vertical strips shall connect the two horizontal strips.
(h) Each side of the bus shall be marked with yellow
retroreflective material that extents for the entire length of the bus body and
is either:
(A) A background for the name of the school district
identification required in section (31) (c) of this rule that is not less than
6 inches and not more than 12 inches in width; or
(B) A two inch wide strip that is between the beltline
and the floorline;
(i) Further retroreflective placement requirements can
be found in: Emergency Exits (section 21 of this rule), Identification (section
31 of this rule), and Stop Arm (section 61 of this rule)
(54) Rub Rails:
(a) There shall be one rub rail on each side of bus at,
or no more than 8 inches above, the seat cushion level which shall extend from
rear side of entrance door completely around bus body (except for emergency
door and access panel(s)) to point of curvature near outside cowl on left side;
(b) There shall be one rub rail located 10 inches or
less above the floor line which shall cover same longitudinal area as upper rub
rail, except at wheelhousing, and shall extend only to longitudinal tangent of
right and left rear corners;
(c) All rub rails shall be attached at each body post
and all other upright structural members;
(d) All rub rails shall be four inches or more in
width, shall be of 16-gauge steel, suitable material of equivalent strength,
and shall be constructed in corrugated or ribbed fashion;
(e) All rub rails shall be applied to the outside body
or outside body posts. Pressed-in or snap-on rub rails do not satisfy this
requirement. For buses using rear luggage or engine compartment, rub rails need
not extend around rear corners.
(f) The bottom edge of the body side skirts shall be
stiffened by application of a rub rail, or the edge may be stiffened by
providing a flange or other stiffeners.
(55) Sanders and other traction assisting devices:
(a) Sanders may be installed. When installed, sanders
shall:
(A) Be of hopper cartridge-valve type;
(B) Have metal hopper with all interior surfaces
treated to prevent condensation of moisture;
(C) Be of at least 100 pound (grit) capacity;
(D) Have cover on filler opening of hopper, which
screws into place, sealing unit airtight;
(E) Have discharge tubes extending to front of each
rear wheel under fender;
(F) Have no-clogging discharge tubes with slush-proof,
nonfreezing rubber nozzles;
(G) Be operated by electric switch with telltale light
mounted on instrument panel;
(H) Be exclusively driver-controlled.
(b) Automatic traction chains may be installed.
(56) Seat Belts:
(a) Driver’s seat belt: A Type 2 seat belt shall be
provided for the driver, a driver’s seat with an integrated Type 2 seat belt
may be substituted. Each belt section shall be booted to keep belt and the
button or buckle type latch off floor when not in use. Shoulder belt assemblies
on Type B, C, and D buses shall provide for a height adjustment of at least
four inches at its upper point of attachment to the bus. Belt shall be anchored
or guided in a manner at the seat frame to prevent the driver from sliding
sideways when belt is in use. Locking retractors may be either an ELR
(Emergency Locking Retractor) or an ALR (Automatic Locking Retractor). All ALR equipped
buses received after July 1, 1989, must include an approved anti-cinching
device;
(b) Passenger seat belts:
(A) On buses manufactured prior to October 21, 2011
with a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds, Type 1 seat belts or Type 2 seat belts
may be installed. The attachments, belts and installation shall meet the
requirements of:
(i) 49 CFR 571.208 Occupant Crash Protection, 49 CFR
581.209 Seat Belt Assemblies, and 49 CFR 571.210 Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages,
as they apply to school buses with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less; or
(ii) The voluntary Type 1 or Type 2 installation
requirements outlined in 49 CFR 571.222 School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash
Protection that take effect on October 21, 2011.
(B) On buses manufactured on or after October 21, 2011
with a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds, Type 2 seat belts may be installed.
Standards for voluntary instillation of seat belts are outlined in 49 CFR
571.222 School Bus Passengers Seating and Crash Protection.
(C) On buses with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less,
mandatory seat belt standards are outlined in 49 CFR 571.222 School Bus
Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.
(57) Seats and Crash Barriers:
(a) Driver’s seat shall be so located in relationship
to the steering wheel that the driver may assume a natural position while
driving, have a clear view of the road, and sufficient leg room to operate
safely and effectively the brake and clutch pedals and accelerator without
cramping or interference. Minimum distance between steering wheel and back rest
of driver’s seat shall be 11 inches. Driver’s seat shall have a fore-and-aft
adjustment of not less than four inches and shall on Type B, C, and D buses be
capable of being raised and lowered at least three inches and shall be strongly
attached to comply with acceptable installation procedures:
(A) For type B, C, and D buses, driver’s seat shall be
a high back (suspension) seat with a minimum seat back adjustment of 15
degrees, not requiring the use of tools, and with a head restraint to
accommodate a 95th percentile female anthropomorphic dummy as defined in FMVSS
208. The driver’s seat shall be secured with nuts, bolts, and washers or
flanged-headed nuts. Type A buses may use manufacture’s standard driver’s seat.
(B) Driver’s seat positioning and range of adjustment
shall be designed to accommodate comfortable actuation of the foot control
pedal by 95 percent of the adult female population.
(b) Passenger Seats: In addition to the requirements of
49 CFR 571.222 School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection, all passenger
seats have the following requirements:
(A) All seats shall have minimum depth of 15 inches;
(B) In determining seating capacity of bus, the minimum
allowable rump width shall be 13 inches;
(C) Seat, seat back cushion and crash barrier shall be
covered with a material having a minimum 42-ounce finished weight, 54-inch
width and finished vinyl coating of 1.06 broken twill, or other material with
equal tensile strength, tear strength, seam strength, adhesion strength,
resistance to abrasion, resistance to cold, and flex separation. Material shall
meet or exceed the criteria contained in the School Bus Seat Upholstery Fire
Block Test. (see Appendix);
(D) All seats shall be forward facing and shall be
securely fastened to that part(s) of bus that support them with a nut-and-bolt
type of fastener. Each seat leg shall be secured to the floor by a minimum of
two nut-and-bolt type fasteners of at least grade 5 SAE strength. Sheet metal
screw-type fasteners without a nut are not acceptable, except in areas where it
is not possible to install a nut-and-bolt type fastener. Seats may be track
mounted;
(E) If track mounted seating is installed, the
manufacture shall supply minimum and maximum seat spacing dimensions on a label
permanently affixed to the bus to notify end user of seat installation
requirements.
(F) No bus shall be equipped with jump seats or
portable seats. Flip-up seats at side emergency exit doors are allowed;
(G) Seat spacing shall not be less than 24 inches
between the front of the back of each seat and the rear of the back of the seat
immediately ahead, measured at all points of the seat width. This shall be
measured at cushion height on a plane parallel to the center line of the bus;
(58) Shock Absorbers: Bus shall be equipped with front
and rear double-acting shock absorbers compatible with manufacturer’s rated
axle capacity at each wheel location.
(59) Side skirts shall be 2 inches above the horizontal
line between the center of the front spindle to the center of the rear axle, or
lower. Measurement shall apply to an unloaded school bus located on a flat,
level surface.
(60) Springs:
(a) Capacity of springs or suspension assemblies shall
be commensurate with chassis manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating;
(b) If rear springs are used they shall be of
progressive type. Front leaf springs shall have a stationary eye at one end and
shall be protected by a wrapped leaf in addition to the main leaf.
(61) Steering Gear:
(a) Steering gear shall be approved by manufacturer and
designed to assure safe and accurate performance when vehicle is operated with
maximum load and at maximum speed;
(b) Steering mechanism that allows for external
adjustment to correct for lost motion shall provide an accessible adjustment
location;
(c) No changes shall be made in steering apparatus
which are not approved by manufacturer;
(d) There shall be clearance of at least two inches
between steering wheel and cowl, instrument panel, windshield, or any other
surface;
(e) Power steering of the integral type is required;
(f) The steering system shall be designed to provide
for means for lubrication of all wear-points, if wear points are not
permanently lubricated.
(62) Steps:
(a) Service door entrance may be equipped with two-step
or three-step stepwell. Risers in each case shall be approximately equal and
shall not exceed 10 inches in height. When plywood floor is used on steel,
differential may be increased by thickness of plywood used:
(A) First step at service door for type A-1, A-2, B,
and C buses shall be not less than 10 inches and not more than 14 inches from
ground, based on standard chassis specifications;
(B) Type D buses shall be equipped with a three-step
stepwell. First step at service door shall not be less than 12 inches and not
more than 16 inches from the ground based on standard chassis specifications.
(b) Steps shall be enclosed to prevent accumulation of
ice and snow;
(c) Steps shall not protrude beyond side body line;
(d) Steps (if any) on Type A-1 and A-2 buses not
manufactured originally as school buses may be chassis manufacturer’s standard;
(e) At least one grab handle not less than 20 inches in
length shall be provided to assist passengers during entry or egress in unobstructed
locations inside doorway. Grab handle shall be designed, installed and
maintained to minimize the opportunity for entanglement of passenger clothing
and belongings.
(f) Step Treads:
(A) All steps, including floor line platform area,
shall be covered with 3/16-inch rubber floor covering or other materials equal
in wear resistance and abrasion resistance to top grade rubber;
(B) The step covering shall be permanently bonded to a
durable backing material that is resistant;
(C) 3/16-inch ribbed step tread shall have a 1-1/2-inch
white or yellow nosing as integral piece without any joint;
(D) Rubber portion of step treads shall have the
following characteristics:
(i) Special compounding for good abrasion resistance
and high coefficient of friction;
(ii) Flexibility so that it can be bent around a
1/2-inch mandrel both at 130 degrees F and 20 degrees F without breaking,
cracking or crazing;
(iii) Show a durometer hardness 85 to 95.
(63) Steps, Windshield Access: There shall be at least
one folding step or recessed foothold and suitably located handles on each side
of the front of the body for easy accessibility for cleaning the windshield and
lamps except when windshield and lamps are easily accessible from the ground.
Standard does not apply to chassis not originally manufactured as school buses.
(64) Stop Signal Arms: Buses shall be equipped with
stop signal arms mounted in accordance with the following requirements:
(a) Shall be installed on the left side of the bus; the
vertical center of the stop blade shall be at least seven inches but not more
than 14 inches below the window line, on the first body post to the rear of the
driver or as close as practicable;
(b) A windguard shall be provided. All sheet metal
parts shall be 16 gauge metal or heavier;
(c) All parts of the assembly that are not color
specific in 49 CFR 571.131 School Pedestrian Safety Devices shall be painted
black;
(d) Shall be equipped with two, four-inch, double faced
alternating flashing red lamps to be mounted centered on the vertical
centerline of the stop arm near the perimeter of the sign with a minimum of 12
inches spacing between lamp centers. Lamps shall be LED or strobe
(e) The stop arm and lamps shall be wired to the
circuit of the flashing red warning lamps mounted on the front and rear of the
bus and shall operate simultaneously with the red bus safety lamps. Override
switch is prohibited;
(f) Shall be retroreflectorized on both sides meeting
the Retroreflective Materials standard (50) of this rule.
(g) Shall be either air, vacuum, or electrically
operated:
(A) Air operated stop arms:
(i) Air may be supplied from an air accessory tank or
from the first (wet) tank;
(ii) If source is from the first (wet) tank a pressure
protection valve shall be installed to prevent the tank air supply from falling
below 60 pounds;
(iii) Stop arm system must have a pressure regulating
valve;
(iv) All fittings shall be brass.
(B) Vacuum operated stop arms:
(i) Vacuum shall be supplied from a separate accessory
tank. Tank shall be protected by a check valve;
(ii) All fittings shall be brass.
(65) Sun Visor: Interior adjustable sun visor, not less
than 6 by 30 inches in size, shall be installed above windshield in position
convenient for use by driver. If transparent visor is used, it shall be of such
material so as not to prevent distinguishing between the colors of red and
green traffic signals. Type A-1 and A-2 may be equipped with manufacturer’s
standard visor. Visor shall have protected edges.
(66) Throttle: The force required to operate the
throttle shall not exceed 16 pounds throughout the full range of accelerator
pedal travel.
(67) Tires and Rims:
(a) Tires and rims of proper size and tires with load
rating commensurate with chassis manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating
shall be provided. The use of multi-piece rims and/or tube type tires shall not
be permitted;
(b) All tires on new buses shall be of same size. Load
range of tires shall meet or exceed the gross axle weight rating as required by
49 CFR 571.120 Tire Selection and Rims for Vehicles Other Than Passenger Cars,
and as indicated on the manufactures data plaque;
(c) If bus is equipped with spare tire and rim
assembly, it shall be of the same size and load range as those mounted on the
vehicle;
(d) A spare tire, when carried, shall be suitably
mounted in an accessible location outside passenger compartment. Type A-1, and
A-2 buses may have spare tire securely mounted in the rear corner of passenger
compartment;
(e) Recapped tires are prohibited on the front of the
bus;
(f) Regrooved tires are not permitted on any bus;
(g) Minimum tread depth on tires shall be:
(A) Front axle — 4/32 inch;
(B) Rear axle — 2/32 inch.
(h) Tread depth shall be measured as follows: The
minimum depth in any two adjacent major grooves at three locations spaced
approximately equally around the outside of the tire but not on wear
indicators.
(68) Tool Compartment: A metal container of adequate
strength and capacity for storage of tire chains, tow chains and such tools as
may be necessary, may be provided. Container may be located inside or outside
of passenger compartment. If inside, it shall have a cover and positive type
latch to prevent opening in event of a severe impact or bus rollover, and shall
be attached to the floor with a nut and bolt fastener, or may be securely
attached to a seat frame under a seat. If tool compartment is outside, it shall
be lockable.
(69) Tow Hooks:
Type C and D buses shall have two front and rear to
hooks that have sufficient strength to pull or be pulled by another vehicle of
the same GVWR. Tow hooks shall be installed in order that no permanent
distortion to the body or chassis will result if the bus must be towed.
(70) Transmission:
(a) Transmission shall have an input torque capacity
greater than maximum net torque developed by engine;
(b) When automatic or semi-automatic transmission is
used, it shall provide for not less than three forward and one reverse speed.
The shift selector, if applicable, shall provide a detent between each gear
position when shift selector is not steering column mounted. Type C and D buses
shall be equipped with a transmission temperature gauge;
(c) When manual transmission is used, second gear and
higher shall be synchronized. A minimum of three forward speeds and one reverse
shall be provided.
(d) Automatic transmissions incorporating a parking
pawl shall have a transmission shifter interlock controlled by the application
of the service brake to prohibit accidental engagement of the transmission. All
non-park pawl transmissions shall incorporate a park brake interlock that
requires the service brake to be applied to allow release of the parking brake.
(71) Trash container: When used, the trash container
shall be secured by a holding device that is designed to prevent movement and
to allow easy removal and replacement. It shall be installed in an accessible
location in the driver’s compartment, not obstruct passenger access to the
entrance door and maintained to minimize the opportunity for entanglement of
passenger clothing and belongings.
(72) Turning Radius:
(a) Chassis with a wheel base of 264 inches or less
shall have a right and left turning radius of not more than 42 1/2 feet, curb
to curb measurement;
(b) Chassis with a wheelbase of 265 inches or more
shall have a right and left turning radius of not more than 44 1/2 feet, curb
to curb measurement.
(73) Under carriage luggage compartments: Luggage
compartments may be installed on the outside of the bus mounted below the floor
level or in the rear of the bus. Access to compartments must be from the
outside only. Compartment doors must have a positive retention to hold the
doors open. Compartment doors must be lockable.
(74) Undercoating:
(a) The entire underside of the bus body, including
floor sections, cross members and below floor-line side panels, shall be coated
with rust-proofing material for which the material manufacturer has issued to
the bus manufacturer a notarized certification that the materials meet or
exceed all performance requirements of SAE J1959, Corrosion Preventive
Compound, Underbody Vehicle Corrosion Protection;
(b) The undercoating material shall be applied to the
material manufacturer’s specifications, including application method and
recommended film thickness, and shall show no evidence of voids in the cured
film.
(c) The undercoating material shall not cover any
exhaust components of the chassis.
(75) Ventilation:
(a) Body shall be equipped with suitable, controlled
ventilating system of sufficient capacity to maintain proper quantity of air
under operating conditions without opening of windows except in extremely warm
weather;
(b) Static-type non-closable exhaust ventilation shall
be installed in low-pressure area of roof.
(76) Video surveillance cameras may be mounted inside
or on either the forward or rear bulkhead, or to the ceiling in compliance with
the following requirements:
(a) Surface mounted camera/camera housing/recording
devices shall be mounted as far forward (if forward mounted) or as far rearward
(if rear mounted) as possible and directly above the center of the
windshield/rear window, and shall not:
(A) Extend into the passenger compartment more than 9
inches;
(B) Extend(s) down from the ceiling more than five
inches;
(C) Be more than five inches wide;
(D) Interfere with the rear view mirror or sun visor.
(b) Recording devices or their housings shall not be
mounted overhead in the passenger compartment;
(c) Video cameras/housings (not recorders) may be
mounted overhead in the passenger compartment, provided they are over the
seating area, but not over any part of the aisle, all edges must be rounded
and/or protected with enclosure of shatterproof construction;
(d) Flush mounted cameras/housings may be mounted in
any position in the front or rear bulkhead or ceiling provided that any
modification to the body, in order to achieve flush mounting does not
compromise the structural integrity of the body panels;
(e) All video related devices mounted to the interior
bus body shall be securely fastened in a manner to prevent separation from the
bus body in the event of collision or mishap;
(f) Recording devices/housings must allow ready access
for camera and video recording medium removal without the use of tools;
(g) All electrical connections shall be made with UL
approved wiring and terminals, and protected by grommets any place it passes
through metal panels. Any electrical load added to the vehicles electrical
system shall be protected with appropriate over current device (fuse).
(77) Weight Distribution:
(a) Weight distribution of fully loaded bus on level
surface shall be such as to not exceed the manufacturer’s front gross axle
weight rating and rear gross axle weight rating;
(b) Weight distribution of fully loaded bus on level
surface shall be such that no more than 75 percent of gross vehicle weight is
on rear tires and no more than 35 percent is on front tires. Type B and D buses
with engine inside front of body and entrance door ahead of front wheels shall
have no more than 75 percent of gross vehicle weight on rear tires, no more
than 50 percent on front tires. If entrance door is behind front wheels, no
more than 75 percent of gross vehicle weight shall be on rear tires, no more
than 40 percent on front tires. With engine in rear, no more than 75 percent of
gross vehicle weight shall be on rear tires, no more than 40 percent on front
tires.
(78) Wheelhousing:
(a) The wheelhousing opening shall allow for easy tire
removal and service;
(b) Wheelhousing shall be attached to floor sheets in
such a manner as to prevent any dust, water or fumes from entering the body.
Wheelhousing shall be constructed of 16-gauge steel, or other material of equal
strength;
(c) The inside height of the wheelhousing above the
floor line shall not exceed 12 inches;
(d) The wheelhousing shall provide clearance for
installation and use of tire chains on single and dual (if so equipped) power-driving
wheels;
(e) No part of a raised wheelhousing shall extend into
the emergency door opening.
(79) Wind deflectors may be installed according to
manufacturer’s standards on the rear roof to deflect snow, dust and dirt from
the rear window.
(80) Windshield and Windows:
(a) All glass in windshield, windows and doors shall be
of approved safety glass so mounted that its identification mark is visible and
of a quality to prevent distortion in any direction. All glazing materials
shall be on the approved list of the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles;
(b) Windshield shall be of safety plate glass AS-1
grade as specified by American National Standards Institute Safety Code Z26.1;
(c) Windshield glass may be heat absorbing and may have
a horizontal gradient band starting slightly above the line of the operator’s
vision and gradually decreasing in light transmission to 20 percent or less at
the top of the windshield in compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard 205;
(d) Glass in all side windows, doors and rear windows
shall be AS-2 or better grade, as specified in ANSI Z26.1, or AS-4 coated
abrasion resistant rigid plastic meeting requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standard 205. Rigid plastic cannot be used for windshields or windows
immediately to the left or right of the driver;
(e) Side windows shall conform to the following:
(A) Buses shall provide full drop or split sash windows
which provide an unobstructed opening of at least 12 inches and not more than
14 inches in height, obtained by lowering the sash, and at least 22 inches in
width. Type A-1 and A-2 buses may have a full drop or split sash windows which
provide an unobstructed opening of at least 9 inches and not more than 13
inches in height, obtained by lowering the sash, and at least 22 inches in
width, provided the bus has 2 swing-out windows. This requirement does not
apply to emergency exit windows installed in compliance with subsection (22) of
this rule
(B) One window on each side of the bus may be less than
22 inches in width. This window need not be split sash.
(C) Windows may be tinted.
(81) Windshield Washers: Bus shall be equipped with
windshield washers.
[ED. NOTE: Exhibits referenced are
available from the agency.]
[Publications:
Publications referenced are available from the agency.]
Stat. Auth.: ORS 327.013 &
820.100 - 820.120
Stats. Implemented: ORS 327.013,
820.100, 820.105, 820.110 & 820.120
Hist.: 1EB 17-1985, f. 10-29-85,
ef. 11-1-85; EB 44-1988, f. 12-16-88, cert. ef. 1-1-89; EB 21-1993, f. &
cert. ef. 6-2-93; ODE 11-1999, f. & cert. ef. 2-12-99; ODE 30-1999, f.
12-13-99, cert. ef. 12-14-99; ODE 15-2004, f. & cert. ef. 8-4-04; ODE
26-2007, f. & cert. ef. 10-26-07; ODE 9-2011, f. & cert. ef. 7-1-11
581-053-0516
Retrofit Standards for School
Buses
In addition to meeting the minimum standards in effect
at the time of purchase, all school buses in use by a pupil transportation
entity shall meet the following additional requirements:
(1) Body Fluid Kits: All school buses shall have body
fluid kits that meet the requirements in OAR 581-053-0512
(2) Emergency Door and Exit Labeling:
(a) All emergency doors shall have the designation
“Emergency Door” in letters at least six inches high, of a color that contrasts
with its background. The designation shall be located at the top of, or
directly above, the emergency door on both the inside and outside surfaces of
the bus;
(b) All emergency window exits (swing-out windows and
rear push-out windows) shall have the designation “Emergency Exit” in letters
at least six inches high, of a color that contrasts with its background. The
designation shall be located at the top of, or directly above, or at the bottom
of the emergency window exit on both the inside and outside surfaces of the
bus.
(3) Fog Lights: Regardless of the age of the vehicle,
if a front fog light system is installed after January 21, 1997, then the
system shall meet the following requirements:
(a) Fog lamps shall be mounted symmetrically around the
front centerline of the bus, below the headlights not less than 12 inches no
more than 30 inches above the ground;
(ii) Fog lamps shall be wired to a separate switch and
shall only come on when the low beam head lights are on.
(iii) A steady burning indicator light shall be wired
so it comes on when the fog lamps are turned on and mounted in a location
readily visible to the driver
(d) Fog light systems installed on vehicles prior to
January 21, 1997 are exempted from this regulation.
(4) Identification: The name of the school district, private
school, or parochial school shall be placed on all school buses on both the
left and right sides of the bus. The name shall appear in the area directly
below the side windows and the letters and figures in the name shall not be
less than four inches nor more than seven inches in height and of proportionate
width.
(5) Stop Arm: All school buses shall have a stop arm
that meets the requirements in OAR 581-053-0512 except that retroreflective
material on the stop arm is not mandated on buses manufactured prior to October
21, 2011.
(6) Wheelchair Restraint Systems: All buses that are
equipped to transport students in a wheel chair manufactured prior to September
3, 1993 shall be retrofitted to meet the following requirements:
(a) Each wheelchair location shall have not less than
four wheelchair securement anchorages and shall be situated so that:
(A) A wheel chair can be secured in a forward-facing
position; and
(B) The wheelchair can be secured by wheelchair
securement device at two locations in the front and two locations in the rear.
(b) Each wheelchair location shall have:
(A) Not less than one anchorage for the upper end of
the upper torso restraint; and
(B) Not less than two floor anchorages for wheelchair
occupant pelvic and upper torso restraint.
(c) Wheelchair securement device and an occupant
restraint may share a common anchorage.
(d) All components must conform to 49 CFR 571.222
School bus passenger seating and crash protection published in volume 58 of the
Federal Register, September 3, 1993.
Stat. Auth.: ORS 820.100 - 820.120
Stats. Implemented: ORS 820.100 -
820.120
Hist.: ODE 9-2011, f. & cert.
ef. 7-1-11
Notes
1.) This online version of the OREGON BULLETIN is provided for convenience of reference and enhanced access. The official, record copy of this publication is contained in the original Administrative Orders and Rulemaking Notices filed with the Secretary of State, Archives Division. Discrepancies, if any, are satisfied in favor of the original versions. Use the OAR Revision Cumulative Index found in the Oregon Bulletin to access a numerical list of rulemaking actions after November 15, 2010.
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