Delaware Administrative Code
Title 14 - Education
1100 - Transportation
1102 - Standards for School Bus Chassis and Bodies Placed in Production on or after March 1, 2002 and on or after March 1, 2003 with Specific Changes for Buses Placed in Production after January 1, 2004 (Terminology and School Bus Types are those described in the National School Transportation Specifications and Procedures (NSTSP), May 2000
Section 1102-2.0 - Bus Body Standards
Universal Citation: 14 DE Admin Code 1102-2.0
Current through Register Vol. 28, No. 3, September 1, 2024
2.1 Aisle
2.1.1 All emergency doors shall be accessible by a 12" minimum aisle. The aisle shall be unobstructed at all times by any type of barrier, seat, wheelchair or tiedown.
2.1.2 A 2" white line shall separate the driver compartment from the passenger compartment.
2.1.3 The seat backs shall be slanted sufficiently to give aisle clearance of 15" at tops of seat backs.
2.2 Back Up Warning Alarm: An automatic audible alarm shall be installed behind the rear axle and shall comply with the published Backup Alarm Standards (SAE J994B), providing a minimum of 112 dBA.
2.3 Battery
2.3.1 The battery is to be furnished by the chassis manufacturer.
2.3.2 When the battery is mounted as described in the "Bus Chassis Standards", the body manufacturer shall securely attach the battery on a slide out or swing out tray in a closed, vented compartment in the body skirt, so that the battery is accessible for convenient servicing from the outside. The battery compartment door or cover shall be hinged at the front or top, and secured by an adequate and conveniently operated latch or other type fastener. The battery compartment is not required on Type A-1 buses.
2.3.3 Buses may be equipped with a battery shut off switch. The switch is to be placed in a location not readily accessible to the driver or passengers.
2.4 Bumper (Front)
2.4.1 On a Type D school bus, if the chassis manufacturer does not provide a bumper, it shall be provided by the body manufacturer. The bumper will conform to the standards described in the "Bus Chassis Standards".
2.5 Bumper (Rear)
2.5.1 The bumper shall be pressed steel channel at least 3/16" thick or equivalent strength material (except for Type A buses). Type A-1 buses bumper shall be a minimum of 8" wide (high) and Type A-2, B, C, and D buses bumper shall be a minimum of 9 1/2" wide (high). The bumper shall be of sufficient strength to permit being pushed by another vehicle without permanent distortion.
2.5.2 The bumper shall be wrapped around the back corners of the bus. It shall extend forward at least 12", measured from the rear most point of the body at the floor line, and shall be flush mounted to body sides or protected with an end panel.
2.5.3 The bumper shall be attached to the chassis frame in such a manner that it may be easily removed. It shall be so braced as to withstand impact from the rear or the side. It shall be so attached as to discourage hitching of rides by an individual.
2.5.4 The bumper shall extend at least 1" beyond the rear most part of the body surface measured at the floor line.
2.6 Ceiling: See Insulation and Interior, this section.
2.7 Certification: The body manufacturer shall, upon request, certify to the Delaware Department of Education, that its product meets state standards on items not covered by FMVSS certification requirements of 49 CFR, Part 567.
2.8 Chains (Tire): See Wheelhousing, this section.
2.9 Color
2.9.1 The school bus body shall be painted National School Bus Yellow (NSBY).
2.9.2 The body exterior paint trim, bumper, lamp hoods, emergency door arrow, and lettering shall be black. (See illustration in NSTSP, Appendix B)
2.9.3 Optionally, the roof of the bus may be painted white down to no lower than the top window lines except that the front and rear roof caps shall remain NSBY.
2.10 Communications: Buses shall be equipped with a radio (non CB) or telephonic communication device. It will be added by the school district, school, or contractor.
2.11 Construction
2.11.1 Side Intrusion Test:
2.11.1.1 The bus body shall be constructed to withstand an intrusion force equal to the curb weight of the vehicle; but shall not exceed 20,000 pounds, whichever is less. Each vehicle shall be capable of meeting this requirement when tested in accordance with the procedures set forth below.
2.11.1.2 The complete body structure, or a representative seven body section mock up with seats installed, shall be load tested at a location 24 inches plus or minus two inches above the floor line, with a maximum 10 inch diameter cylinder, 48 inches long, mounted in a horizontal plane.
2.11.1.3 The cylinder shall be placed as close as practical to the mid point of the tested structure, spanning two internal vertical structural members. The cylinder shall be statically loaded to the required force of curb weight or 20,000 pounds, whichever is less, in a horizontal plane with a load applied from the exterior toward the interior of the test structure. Once the minimum load has been applied, the penetration of the loading cylinder into the passenger compartment shall not exceed a maximum of ten inches from its original point of contact. There can be no separation of lapped panels or construction joints. Punctures, tears or breaks in the external panels are acceptable but are not permitted on any adjacent interior panel.
2.11.1.4 Body companies shall certify compliance with this intrusion requirement, including test results, if requested.
2.11.2 Construction shall be reasonably dust proof and watertight.
2.12 Crossing Control Arm
2.12.1 Buses shall be equipped with a crossing control arm mounted on the right side of the front bumper. The arm when opened shall extend in a line parallel with the body side and positioned on a line with the right side wheels.
2.12.2 All components of the crossing control arm and all connections shall be weatherproofed.
2.12.3 The crossing control arm shall incorporate system connectors (electrical, vacuum, or air) at the gate and shall be easily removable to allow for towing of the bus.
2.12.4 The crossing control arm shall meet or exceed SAE Standard J1133.
2.12.5 The crossing control arm shall be constructed of noncorrosive or nonferrous material or treated in accordance with the body sheet metal standard (see "Metal Treatment").
2.12.6 There shall be no sharp edges or projections that could cause hazard or injury to students.
2.12.7 The crossing control arm shall extend minimum 70" (measured from the bumper at the arm assembly attachment point) when in the extended position.
2.12.8 The crossing control arms shall extend simultaneously with the stop arm(s) by means of the stop arm controls.
2.13 Defrosters
2.13.1 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 eliminate frost, fog and snow.
2.13.2 The defrosting system shall conform to SAE J381 and J382.
2.13.3 The defroster and defogging system shall be capable of furnishing heated, outside ambient air, except that the part of the system furnishing additional air to the windshield, entrance door and stepwell may be of the recirculating air type.
2.13.4 Auxiliary fans are not considered defrosting or defogging systems and are described under "Ventilation."
2.13.5 Portable heaters shall not be used.
2.14 Doors
2.14.1 The service door shall be in 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 a hand lever is used, no part shall come together that will 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 percent grade both uphill and downhill.
2.14.2 The service door shall be located on the right side of the bus, opposite and within direct view of driver.
2.14.3 The service door shall have a minimum horizontal opening of 24" and a minimum vertical opening of 68". Type A-1 vehicles shall have a minimum opening area of 1,200 square inches.
2.14.4 Service door shall be a split type, sedan type, or jackknife type. (Split type door includes any sectioned door that divides and opens inward or outward.) If one section of a split type door opens inward and the other opens outward, the front section shall open outward. School buses with a capacity of 36 passengers or greater shall be equipped with an outward opening service door.
2.14.5 Lower, as well as upper, door panels shall be of approved safety glass. The bottom of each lower glass panel shall not be more than 10" from the top surface of bottom step. The top of each upper glass panel shall not be more than 3" from the top of the door. Type A vehicles shall have an upper panel (windows) of safety glass with an area of at least 350 square inches.
2.14.6 Vertical closing edges on split type or folding type entrance doors shall be equipped with flexible material to protect children's fingers. Type A-1 vehicles may be equipped with chassis manufacturer's standard entrance door.
2.14.7 There shall be no door to left of driver on Type B, C or D vehicles. All Type A vehicles may be equipped with chassis manufacturer's standard left side door.
2.14.8 All doors shall be equipped with padding at the top edge of each door opening. Padding shall be at least 3" wide and 1" thick and extend the full width of the door opening.
2.14.9 If a power assisted service door is used, the actuation switch shall be to the right of the steering wheel within reach of drivers in the 95th percentile of the male and female adult population).
2.14.10 On power operated service doors, the emergency release valve, switch or device to release the service door must be placed above or to the immediate left or right of the service door and clearly labeled.
2.14.11 For bus chassis and bodies produced after January 1, 2004, the power entrance door shall be capable of being operated by a single three (3) position sequential switch, located convenient and accessible to the right of the driver. The first position shall activate the red flashing lights and the stop arm with the door closed. The second position shall open the door. Returning the switch to the off position shall close the door and cancel the stop arm and lights. The amber lights shall be controlled by a manual button located on the control panel to the right or left of the driver. Controls shall be a sequential operation system.
2.15 Driver Compartment
2.15.1 The driver's seat supplied by the body company shall be a high back seat with a minimum seat back adjustable to 15 degrees, without requiring the use of tools, and a head restraint to accommodate a 95th percentile adult male, as defined in FMVSS 208. The driver's seat shall be secured with nuts, bolts and washers or flanged head nuts.
2.15.2 Driver seat positioning and range of adjustments shall be designed to accommodate comfortable actuation of the foot control pedals by 95% of the male and female adult population.
2.15.3 Type A buses may utilize the standard driver's seat provided by the chassis manufacturer.
2.15.4 Driver Restraint System: A Type 2 lap and shoulder belt shall be provided for the driver. The assembly shall be equipped with an emergency locking retractor for the continuous belt system. On all buses except Type A equipped with a standard chassis manufacturer's driver seat, the lap portion of the belt system shall be guided or anchored to prevent the driver from sliding sideways under it. The lap and shoulder belt shall be designed to allow for easy adjustment in order to fit properly and to effectively protect drivers varying in size from 5th percentile adult female to 95th percentile adult male.
2.16 Emergency Exits
2.16.1 All installed emergency exits shall comply with the requirements of FMVSS 217.
2.16.2 Emergency door requirements
2.16.2.1 The upper portion of the emergency door shall be equipped with approved safety glazing, the exposed area of which shall be at least 400 square inches. The lower portion of the rear emergency doors on Types A-2, B, C, and D vehicles shall be equipped with a minimum of 350 square inches of approved safety glazing.
2.16.2.2 There shall be no steps leading to an emergency door.
2.16.2.3 The emergency door(s) shall be equipped with padding at the top edge of each door opening. Padding shall be at least 3" wide and 1" thick, and shall extend the full width of the door opening.
2.16.2.4 The side emergency door, if required, must meet the requirements as set forth in FMVSS 217, regardless of its use with any other combination of emergency exits. There shall be a clear aisle leading to it i.e., flip seats shall not be used.
2.16.2.5 There shall be no obstruction higher than 1/4 inch across the bottom of any emergency door opening.
2.16.2.6 The rear emergency window shall have an assisted lifting device that will aid in lifting and holding the rear emergency window open.
2.16.3 Emergency exit requirements: Types A, B, C, and D vehicles shall be equipped with a total number of emergency exits as follows for the equipped capacities of vehicles. Exits required by FMVSS 217 may be included to comprise the total number of exits specified.
0 to 42 Passenger = 1 emergency exit per side and 1 roof hatch.
43 to 78 Passenger = 2 emergency exits per side and 2 roof hatches.
79 to 90 Passenger = 3 emergency exits per side and 2 roof hatches.
2.16.4 Side emergency exit windows when installed may be vertically hinged on the forward side of the window. No side emergency exit window will be located above a stop arm.
2.16.5 In addition to the audible warning required on emergency doors by FMVSS 217, additional emergency exits shall also be equipped with an audible warning device.
2.17 Emergency Equipment
2.17.1 Fire Extinguisher
2.17.1.1 The bus shall be equipped with at least one UL approved pressurized, dry chemical fire extinguisher. The extinguisher shall be mounted (and secured) in a bracket, located in the driver's compartment and readily accessible to the driver and passengers. A pressure gauge shall be mounted on the extinguisher and shall be easily read without moving the extinguisher from its mounted position.
2.17.1.2 The fire extinguisher shall have a total rating of 2A10BC or greater. The operating mechanism shall be sealed with a type of seal that will not interfere with the use of the fire extinguisher.
2.17.2 First aid kit
2.17.2.1 The bus shall have a removable, moisture proof and dust proof first aid kit in an accessible place in the driver's compartment. It shall be properly mounted (and secured) and identified as a first aid kit. The location for the first aid kit shall be marked.
2.17.2.2 Minimum contents include:
Units Quantity per unit
2 12- 1" x 3" adhesive bandages
1 2 - 2" bandage compress
1 1 - 4" bandage compress
1 1 - non sterile triangular bandages
approximately 40" x 36" x 54" with 2 safety pins
1 eye kit with 2 sterile eye pads and 1 oz. wash
1 3- burn ointment, 1/8 oz.
1 5- ammonia inhalants
1 5- PVP antiseptic swabs
1 5- insect sting swabs
2.17.3 Body fluid clean up kit: Each bus shall have a removable and moisture proof body fluid clean up kit accessible to the driver. It shall be properly mounted and identified as a body fluid clean up kit in the driver's compartment. Minimum contents of the body fluid clean up kit shall include the following:
2.17.3.1 1- 16 oz. bottle of 70% rubbing alcohol or 10% solution of bleach
2.17.3.2 1- plastic trash bag with tie, minimum of 12" x 12"
2.17.3.3 2- pairs of medical examination gloves (non latex)
2.17.3.4 10- paper towels, approximately 10 1/ 2" x 12 1/2"
2.17.4 Warning devices: Each school bus shall contain at least three (3) reflectorized triangle road warning devices mounted in an accessible place that meet requirements in FMVSS 125.
2.17.5 Any of the emergency equipment may be mounted in an enclosed compartment provided the compartment is labeled in not less than 1" letters, identifying each piece of equipment contained therein.
2.18 Floor
2.18.1 The floor in the under seat area, including tops of wheel housings, driver's compartment and toe board, shall be covered with rubber floor covering or equivalent, having a minimum overall thickness of .125". The driver's area on all Type A buses may be manufacturer's standard flooring and floor covering.
2.18.2 The floor covering in the aisles shall be of aisle type rubber or equivalent, wear resistant and ribbed. Minimum overall thickness shall be .187" measured from tops of ribs.
2.18.3 The floor covering must be permanently bonded to the floor and must not crack when subjected to sudden changes in temperature. Bonding or adhesive material shall be waterproof and shall be a type recommended by the manufacturer of floor covering material. All seams must be sealed with waterproof sealer.
2.18.4 On Types B, C and D buses, a flush mounted, screw down plate that is secured and sealed shall be provided to access the fuel tank sending unit.
2.19 Handrails: At least one handrail shall be installed. The handrail(s) shall assist passengers during entry or exit, and be designed to prevent entanglement, as evidenced by the passage of the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) string and nut test as defined in the NSTSP.
2.20 Heater and Air Conditioning Systems
2.20.1 Heating System
2.20.1.1 The heater shall be a hot water type.
2.20.1.2 Every bus with a capacity of 36 or more shall have 2 heaters at the front: 1 to the left of the driver, and 1 to the right of the driver near the entrance door, and 1 heater in the rear portion of the bus.
2.20.1.3 If only one heater is used, it shall be fresh air or combination fresh air and recirculation type.
2.20.1.4 If more than one heater is used, additional heaters may be temperatures as specified recirculating air type.
2.20.1.5 The heating system shall be capable of maintaining bus interior in SAE test procedure J2233.
2.20.1.6 All forced air heaters installed by body manufacturers shall bear a name plate that indicates the heater rating in accordance with SBMTC-001. The plate shall be affixed by the heater manufacturer and shall constitute certification that the heater performance is as shown on the plate.
2.20.1.7 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 any sharp edges and shall not interfere with or restrict the operation of any engine function. Heater hoses shall conform to SAE J20c. Heater lines on the interior of bus shall be shielded to prevent scalding of the driver or passengers.
2.20.1.8 Each hot water system installed by a body manufacturer shall include one shut off valve in the pressure line and one shut off valve in the return line with both valves at the engine in an accessible location, except that on all Types A and B buses, the valves may be installed in another accessible location.
2.20.1.9 There shall be a water flow regulating valve installed in the pressure line for convenient operation by the driver while seated.
2.20.1.10 Accessible bleeder valves shall be installed in an appropriate place in the return lines of body company installed heaters to remove air from the heater lines.
2.20.1.11 Access panels shall be provided to make heater motors, cores and fans readily accessible for service. An outside access panel may be provided for the driver's heater.
2.20.2 Air Conditioning
2.20.2.1 Performance Specifications
2.20.2.1.1 The installed air conditioning system shall cool the interior of the bus down to at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit, measured at a minimum of three points, located 4' above the floor at the longitudinal centerline of the bus. The three points shall be:
(1) near the driver's location,
(2) at the midpoint of the body, and
(3) 2' forward of the emergency door, or, for type D rear engine buses, 2' forward of the end of the aisle.
2.20.2.1.2 The test conditions under which the above performance must be achieved shall consist of:
(1) placing the bus in a room (such as a paint booth) where ambient temperature can be maintained at 100 degrees Fahrenheit
(2) heat soaking the bus at 100 degrees Fahrenheit with windows open for at least 1 hour and
(3) closing windows, turning on the air conditioner with the engine running at the chassis manufacturer's recommended low idle speed, and cooling the interior of the bus to 80 degrees Fahrenheit or lower within a maximum of 30 minutes while maintaining 100 degrees Fahrenheit outside temperature.
2.20.2.1.3 Alternately, this test may be performed under actual summer conditions, which consist of temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, humidity above 50 percent with normal sun loading of the bus and the engine running at the engine manufacturer's recommended low idle speed. After a minimum of 1 hour of heat soaking, the system shall be turned on and must provide a minimum 20 degree temperature drop in the 30 minute time limit.
2.20.2.2 Other Requirements
2.20.2.2.1 Evaporator cases, lines and ducting (as equipped) shall be designed in such a manner that all condensation is effectively drained to the exterior of the bus below the floor level under all conditions of vehicle movement and without leakage on any interior portion of bus.
2.20.2.2.2 Any evaporator or ducting system shall be designed and installed so as to be free of injury prone projections or sharp edges. Any ductwork shall be installed so that exposed edges face the front of the bus and do not present sharp edges.
2.20.2.2.3 Evaporator cases and ducting systems shall be equipped with diffusers that are adjustable.
2.20.2.2.4 On specially equipped school buses, the evaporator and ducting (if used) shall be placed high enough that they will not obstruct occupant securement shoulder strap upper attachment points. This clearance shall be provided along entire length of the passenger area on both sides of the bus interior to allow for potential retrofitting of new wheelchair positions and occupant securement devices throughout the bus.
2.20.2.2.5 The condensers shall be equipped with a sight glass (or at least one for each part of a split system) that is accessible and directly visible for checking the level of the refrigerant.
2.20.2.2.6 The compressor system shall be equipped with both a high pressure and a low pressure switch to prevent compressor operation when system temperatures are above or below recommended safe levels. Lubrication of moving compressor parts shall be accomplished automatically. An automatic (electric) clutch shall be provided on each compressor.
2.20.2.2.7 All system operating controls, including on off switch(es), blower switch(es) and thermostat controls shall be accessible to the driver in a seated position.
2.20.2.2.8 Blowers shall be a minimum of two speeds.
2.20.2.2.9 Wiring shall be copper with color coded insulation. The air conditioning system shall be equipped with at least one manually resetable circuit breaker per side to provide overload protection for the main power circuit feeding the evaporator blowers and condenser fans. System control circuits shall also have overload protection, but may be fused.
2.20.2.2.10 Refrigerant shall be R 134A.
2.20.2.2.11 All wiring, hoses, and lines shall be grommeted, routed, and supported so as to reduce wear. All flexible refrigerant hoses shall be double braided.
2.20.2.2.12 The body shall be equipped with insulation, including sidewalls, roof, firewall, rear, inside body bows and plywood (see "Insulation") or composite floor insulation to aid in heat dissipation and reflection.
2.20.2.2.13 All glass (windshield, service and emergency doors, side and rear windows) shall be equipped with maximum integral tinting allowed by federal or ANSI standards for the respective locations, except that windows rear of the driver's compartment shall have approximately 28 percent light transmission.
2.20.2.2.14 Type A buses equipped with air conditioning shall be furnished with an alternator with a minimum output rating of 120 amperes. Type B, C, and D buses equipped with air conditioning shall be furnished with an alternator with a minimum output rating of 160 amperes.
2.20.2.2.15 Roofs shall be painted white (see "Color").
2.21 Hinges: All exterior metal door hinges which do not have stainless steel, brass, or nonmetallic hinge pins or other designs that prevent corrosion shall be designed to allow lubrication to be channeled to the center 75 percent of each hinge loop without disassembly.
2.22 Identification
2.22.1 The body shall bear words "SCHOOL BUS" in black letters at least 8 inches high on both front and rear of body or on signs attached thereto. Lettering shall be placed as high as possible without impairment of its visibility. Letters shall conform to "Series B" of Standard Alphabets for Highway Signs. "SCHOOL BUS" lettering shall have a reflective background. All lettering on NSBY surfaces shall be black, and lettering on black surfaces shall be NSBY or white.
2.22.2 Bus identification number shall be displayed on the sides, on the rear, and on the front.
2.22.3 District or company name or owner of the bus shall be displayed;
2.22.4 Other lettering, numbering, or symbols which may be displayed on the exterior of the bus, shall be limited to:
2.22.4.1 The location of the battery(ies) identified by the word "Battery" or "Batteries" on the battery compartment door in 2" lettering;
2.22.4.2 Symbols or letters not to exceed 64 square inches of total display near the service door, displaying information for identification by the students of the bus or route served;
2.22.4.3 Symbols identifying the bus as equipped for or transporting students with special needs (see Specially Equipped School Bus section);
2.22.4.4 Lettering of fuel type in 2" lettering adjacent to the fuel filler opening; and
2.22.4.5 Manufacturer, company name, dealer, school logo, or U.S. Flag (with no other wording or artwork) decal or plate not to exceed 6 inches x 12 inches may be displayed in the right side plate location on the rear of the bus.
2.23 Inside Height: Inside body height shall be 72" or more, measured metal to metal, at any point on longitudinal center line from front vertical bow to rear vertical bow. Inside body height of Type A-1 buses shall be 62" or more.
2.24 Insulation
2.24.1 If thermal insulation is specified, it shall be fire resistant, UL approved, with minimum R value of 5.5. Insulation shall be installed so as to prevent sagging.
2.24.2 If floor insulation is required, it shall be 5 ply nominal 5/8" thick plywood, and it shall equal or exceed properties of the exterior type softwood plywood, C-D Grade, as specified in standard issued by U.S. Department of Commerce. When plywood is used, all exposed edges shall be sealed. Type A-1 buses may be equipped with nominal 1/ 2" thick plywood meeting the above requirements. Equivalent material may be used to replace plywood, provided it has an equal or greater insulation R value, deterioration, sound abatement and moisture resistance properties.
2.25 Interior
2.25.1 The interior of bus shall be free of all unnecessary projections, which include luggage racks and attendant hand rails, to minimize the potential for injury. This standard requires inner lining on ceilings and walls. If the ceiling is constructed to contain lap joints, the forward panel shall be lapped by rear panel and exposed edges shall be beaded, hemmed, flanged, or otherwise treated to minimize sharp edges. Buses may be equipped with a storage compartment for tools, tire chains, and tow chains. (See "Storage Compartment")
2.25.2 The driver's area forward of the foremost padded barriers will permit the mounting of required safety equipment and vehicle operation equipment.
2.25.3 Every school bus shall be constructed so that the 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 procedure found in the NSTSP, Appendix B. School buses with a capacity of 36 passengers or greater shall be equipped with a sound proof body package that includes firewall and engine cover. The headliner over the driver's compartment to the front barriers shall be perforated to absorb sound.
2.25.4 Interior overhead storage compartments may be provided if they meet the following criteria:
2.25.4.1 Meet head protection requirements of FMVSS 222 where applicable;
2.25.4.2 Have a minimum rated capacity displayed for each compartment;
2.25.4.3 Be completely enclosed and equipped with latching doors which must be sufficient to withstand a force five times the maximum rated capacity of the compartment;
2.25.4.4 Have all corners and edges rounded with a minimum radius of 1" or padded equivalent to door header padding;
2.25.4.5 Be attached to the bus sufficiently to withstand a force equal to 20 times the maximum rated capacity of the compartment; and
2.24.4.6 Have no protrusions greater than 1/4 inch.
2.25.5 For bus chassis and bodies produced after March 1, 2003, the interiors shall have mar proof side walls.
2.26 Lamps and Signals
2.26.1 Interior lamps shall be provided which adequately illuminate the aisle and the stepwell. The stepwell light shall be illuminated by a service door operated switch, to illuminate only when headlights and clearance lights are on and the service door is open.
2.26.2 Body instrument panel lights shall be controlled by an independent rheostat switch.
2.26.3 School bus alternately flashing signal lamps:
2.26.3.1 The bus shall be equipped with two red lamps at the rear of vehicle and two red lamps at the front of the vehicle. Lamps may be the sealed beam or halogen type.
2.26.3.3.1 For bus chassis and bodies produced after January 1, 2004, the visors or hoods, black in color, are only required on non flush mounted lights and shall have a minimum depth of 4".
2.26.3.2 In addition to the four red lamps described above, four amber lamps shall be installed so that one amber lamp is located near each red signal lamp, at same level, but closer to the vertical centerline of bus. The system of red and amber signal lamps shall be wired so that amber lamps are energized manually, and red lamps are automatically energized (with amber lamps being automatically deenergized) when stop signal arm is extended or when bus service door is opened. An amber pilot light and a red pilot light shall be installed adjacent to the driver controls for the flashing signal lamp to indicate to the driver which lamp system is activated.
2.26.3.3 The area around lens of alternately flashing signal lamps extending outward from the edge of the lamps 3" (+/- 1/4") to the sides and top and minimum 1" to the bottom, shall be black in color on the body or roof area against which the signal lamp is seen (from distance of 500 feet along axis of vehicle). Visors or hoods, black in color, are required and shall have a minimum depth of 4". (See NSTSP, Appendix B)
2.26.3.4 Red lamps shall flash at any time the stop signal arm is extended.
2.26.3.5 All flashers for alternately flashing red and amber signal lamps shall be enclosed in the body in a readily accessible location.
2.26.4 Turn signal and stop or tail lamps:
2.26.4.1 Bus body shall be equipped with amber rear turn signal lamps that are at least 7" in diameter. These signal lamps must be connected to the chassis hazard warning switch to cause simultaneous flashing of turn signal lamps when needed as vehicular traffic hazard warning. Turn signal lamps are to be placed as wide apart as practical and their centerline shall be a maximum of 12" below the rear window. Type A-1 conversion vehicle lamps must be at least 21 square inches in lens area and must be in the manufacturer's standard color.
2.26.4.1.1 For bus chassis and bodies produced after January 1, 2004, the bus body shall be equipped with amber rear turn signal lamps that are at least 7" in diameter, or if the shape is other than round, a minimum 38 square inches. These signal lamps must be connected to the chassis hazard warning switch to cause simultaneous flashing of turn signal lamps when needed as vehicular traffic hazard warning. Turn signal lams are to be placed as wide apart as practical and their centerline shall be a maximum of 12" below the rear window. Type A-1 conversion vehicle lamps must be at least 21 square inches in lens area and must be in the manufacturer's standard color.
2.26.4.2 Buses shall be equipped with amber side mounted turn signal lights. The turn signal lamp on the left side shall be mounted rearward of the stop signal arm and the turn signal lamp on the right side shall be mounted rearward of the service door. An additional side turn signal lamp may be mounted over the rear wheel opening on both sides.
2.26.4.2.1 For bus chassis and bodies produced after January 1, 2004, an additional amber side turn lamp shall be mounted between the rear wheel opening and the rear of the bus on both sides.
2.26.4.3 In addition to manufacturer's standard turn signals, Type C school buses shall also be equipped with front, Class A fender or hood mounted turn signals.
2.26.4.4 Buses shall be equipped with four combination red stop or tail lamps:
2.26.4.4.1 Two combination lamps with a minimum diameter of 7", or if a shape other than round, a minimum 38 square inches of illuminated area shall be mounted on the rear of the bus just inside the turn signal lamps.
2.26.4.4.2 Two combination lamps with a minimum diameter of 4", or if a shape other than round, a minimum 12 square inches of illuminated area shall be placed on the rear of the body between the beltline and the floor line. The rear license plate lamp may be combined with one lower tail lamp. Stop lamps shall be activated by the service brakes and shall emit a steady light when illuminated. Type A-1 buses with bodies supplied by chassis manufacturer may have manufacturer's standard stop and tail lamps.
2.26.4.5 All buses shall be equipped with a 16 light monitor. The monitor shall be mounted in full view of the driver. If the full circuit current passes through the monitor, each circuit shall be protected by a fuse, circuit breaker, or field effect transistor to protect against any short circuit or intermittent shorts.
2.26.4.6 Body markers shall be the armored type.
2.26.4.7 Backup lamps: The bus body shall be equipped with two white rear backup lamp signals that are at least 4" in diameter or, if a shape other than round, a minimum of 13 square inches of illuminated area, meeting FMVSS 108. If backup lamps are placed on the same horizontal line as the brake lamps and turn signal lamps, they shall be to the inside.
2.26.5 School buses may be equipped with fog lamps.
2.27 Metal Treatment
2.27.1 All metal used in construction of bus body shall be zinc coated or aluminum coated or treated by equivalent process before the bus is constructed. Included are such items as structural members, inside and outside panels, door panels and floor sills. Excluded are such items as door handles, grab handles, interior decorative parts and other interior plated parts.
2.27.2 All metal parts that will be painted, in addition to the above requirements, shall be chemically cleaned, etched, zinc phosphate coated and zinc chromate or epoxy primed, or the metal may be conditioned by equivalent process.
2.27.3 In providing for these requirements, particular attention shall be given to lapped surfaces, welded connections of structural members, cut edges on punched or drilled hole areas in sheet metal, closed or box sections, unvented or undrained areas and surfaces subjected to abrasion during vehicle operation.
2.27.4 As evidence that above requirements have been met, samples of materials and sections used in the construction of the bus body shall not lose more than 10 percent of material by weight when subjected to a 1000 hour salt spray test as provided for in latest revision of ASTM Standard B-117.
2.28 Mirrors
2.28.1 The interior mirror shall be either clear view laminated glass or clear view glass bonded to a backing which retains the glass in the event of breakage. The mirror shall have rounded corners and protected edges. All Type A buses shall have a minimum of a 6" x 16" mirror and Types B, C, and D buses shall have a minimum of a 6" x 30" mirror.
2.28.2 Each school bus shall be equipped with exterior mirrors meeting the requirements of FMVSS 111. Mirrors shall be easily adjustable, but shall be rigidly braced so as to reduce vibration.
2.28.3 Buses may be equipped with heated or remote control external mirrors.
2.28.3.1 For bus chassis and bodies produced after March 1, 2003, buses for 36 passengers or greater shall be equipped with heated and remote control exterior rear view mirrors.
2.28.3.2 For bus chassis and bodies produced after January 1, 2004, the buses, 36 passengers or greater, shall be equipped with heated cross over mirrors.
2.29 Mounting
2.29.1 The chassis frame shall support rear body cross member. The bus body shall be attached to chassis frame at each main floor sill, except where chassis components interfere, in such manner as to prevent shifting or separation of the body from the chassis under severe operating conditions.
2.29.2 Insulators shall be installed at all contact points between the body and the chassis frame on Types A-2, B, C, and D buses, and shall be secured by a positive means to the chassis frame or body to prevent shifting, separation, or displacement of the isolators under severe operating conditions.
2.30 Overall Length: Overall length of bus shall not exceed 40 feet, excluding accessories.
2.31 Overall Width: Overall width of bus shall not exceed 96", excluding accessories.
2.32 Public Address System:
2.32.1 There shall be installed a public address amplifier specifically designed for vehicular applications with a minimum power output of not less than 5 watts sine wave power. Such system shall consist of an on off switch, volume control, and an inside outside speaker selector switch. Additionally, it shall have an outside speaker completely weather-proofed a minimum 7 watt power capability and two interior dynamic speakers with a minimum diameter of 4 inches. These speakers shall be located above the window line, to the rear of the driver, and shall not project more than 1/2 inch from the interlining of the bus. There shall be no sharp edges or corners that could cause injury to a passenger. The outside speaker shall be located on the front of the cowl under the hood or other suitable location under the hood.
2.32.2 Buses may be equipped with an AM or FM audio system.
2.32.3 No internal speakers, other than the driver's communication systems, may be installed within 4' of the driver's seat back in its rearmost upright position.
2.33 Reflective Material (see NSTSP, Appendix B)
2.33.1 The front and rear bumper may be marked diagonally 45 degrees down to centerline of pavement with 2" +/- 1/4" wide strips of non contrasting reflective material.
2.33.2 The rear of bus body shall be marked with strips of reflective NSBY material to outline the perimeter of the back of the bus using material that conforms with the requirements of FMVSS 131, Table 1. The perimeter marking of rear emergency exits per FMVSS 217 or the use of reflective "SCHOOL BUS" signs partially accomplishes the objective of this requirement. To complete the perimeter marking of the back of the bus, strips of at least 1 3/4" reflective NSBY material shall be applied horizontally above the rear windows and above the rear bumper, extending from the rear emergency exit perimeter, marking outward to the left and right rear corners of the bus. Vertical strips shall be applied at the corners connecting these horizontal strips.
2.33.3 "School Bus" signs shall be marked with reflective NSBY material comprising background for lettering of the front or rear "School Bus" signs.
2.33.4 Sides of bus body shall be marked with at least 1 3/4" reflective NSBY material, extending the length of the bus body and located (vertically) between the floor line and the beltline.
2.34 Rub Rails
2.34.1 There shall be one rub rail located on each side of the bus at seat cushion level which extends from the rear side of the entrance door completely around the bus body (except the emergency door or any maintenance access door) to the point of curvature near the outside cowl on the left side.
2.34.2 There shall be one additional rub rail located on each side at, or no more than 10" above, the floor line. The rub rail shall cover the same longitudinal area as the upper rub rail, except at the wheelhousings, and it shall extend only to the radii of the right and left rear corners.
2.34.3 Both rub rails shall be attached at each body post and all other upright structural members.
2.34.4 Each rub rail shall be 4" or more in width in their finished form, shall be of 16 gauge steel or suitable material of equivalent strength and shall be constructed in corrugated or ribbed fashion.
2.34.5 Both rub rails shall be applied outside the body or outside the body posts. (Pressed in or snap on rub rails do not satisfy this requirement.) For Type A-1 vehicles using the body provided by the chassis manufacturer, or for Types A-2, B, C and D buses using the rear luggage or the rear engine compartment, rub rails need not extend around the rear corners.
2.34.6 There shall be a rub rail (snow rail) or equivalent bracing located horizontally at the bottom edge of the body side skirts.
2.35 Seat and Restraining Barriers
2.35.1 Passenger Seating
2.35.1.1 All seats shall have a minimum cushion depth of 15" and must comply with all requirements of FMVSS 222. School bus design capacities shall be in accordance with 49 CFR, Part 571.3 and FMVSS 222.
2.35.1.2 All restraining barriers and passenger seats shall be constructed with materials that enable them to meet the criteria contained in the School Bus Seats Upholstery Fire Block Test. (See NSTSP, Appendix B)
2.35.1.3 School buses equipped with front barriers shall have modesty panels (full width) installed under the barriers the full length to the floor.
2.35.1.4 Each seat leg shall be secured to the floor by a minimum of two (2) bolts, washers, and nuts. Flange head nuts may be used in lieu of nuts and washers, or seats may be track mounted in conformance with FMVSS 222. If track seating is installed, the manufacturer shall supply minimum and maximum seat spacing dimensions applicable to the bus, which comply with FMVSS 222. This information shall be on a label permanently affixed to the bus.
2.35.1.5 All seat frames attached to the seat rail shall be fastened with two (2) bolts, washers and nuts or flange head nuts.
2.35.1.6 All school buses (including Type A) shall be equipped with restraining barriers which conform to FMVSS 222.
2.35.1.7 There shall be a minimum of 8" clearance between the last seat and the rear interior of the bus.
2.35.2 Pre school Age Seating: When installed, all passenger seats designed to accommodate a child or infant carrier seat shall comply with FMVSS 225. These seats shall be in compliance with NHTSA's "Guideline for Safe Transportation of Pre school Age Children in School Buses."
2.36 Steps
2.36.1 All school buses with a capacity of 36 passengers and above shall have a three step stepwell.
2.36.2 The first step at service door shall be not less than 10" and not more than 14" from the ground when measured from the top surface of the step to the ground, based on standard chassis specifications, except that on Type D vehicles, the first step at the service door shall be 12" to 16" from the ground.
2.36.3 Step risers shall not exceed a height of 10". When plywood is used on a steel floor or step, the riser height may be increased by the thickness of the plywood.
2.36.4 Steps shall be enclosed to prevent accumulation of ice and snow.
2.36.5 Steps shall not protrude beyond the side body line.
2.37 Step Treads
2.37.1 All steps, including floor line platform area, shall be covered with 3/16" rubber floor covering or other materials equal in wear and abrasion resistance to top grade rubber.
2.37.2 The metal back of the tread shall be permanently bonded to the step tread material.
2.37.3 Steps, including the floor line platform area, shall have a 1 1/2" white nosing as an integral piece without any joint.
2.37.4 Step treads shall have the following characteristics:
2.37.4.1 Special compounding for good abrasion resistance and coefficient of friction of at least 0.6 for the step surface, and 0.8 for the step nosing;
2.37.4.2 Flexibility so that it can be bent around a 1/2" mandrel both at 130 degrees Fahrenheit and 20 degrees Fahrenheit without breaking, cracking, or crazing;
2.37.4.3 A durometer hardness 85 to 95.
2.38 Stirrup Steps: Unless the windshield and lamps are not easily accessible from the ground, there shall be at least one folding stirrup step or recessed foothold and suitably located handles on each side of the front of the body for easy accessibility for cleaning. Steps are permitted in or on the front bumper in lieu of the stirrup steps if the windshield and lamps are easily accessible for cleaning from that position.
2.39 Stop Signal Arm: The stop signal arm shall be reflectorized material and comply with the requirements of FMVSS 131.
2.40 Storage Compartment: A storage container for tools, tire chains, and tow chains may be located either inside or outside the passenger compartment. If inside, it shall have a cover capable of being securely latched and fastened to the floor, convenient to either the service or emergency door. (The seat cushion may not serve this purpose.)
2.41 Strobe Light
2.41.1 A white flashing strobe light shall be installed on the roof. It shall be located from 4 to 6 feet from the rear of the roof edge (except air conditioned buses with rooftop evaporators), within 1 foot of centerline, and behind all other roof equipment. The strobe shall extend above the roof between 4 1/2 to 6 3/4 inches, and the light shall be 12 to 16 joules with a clear lens emitting light 360 degrees around its vertical axis.
2.41.2 The light shall be wired to activate when the amber alternately flashing signal lamps are activated, continuing through the full loading or unloading cycle, with an override switch to allow activation of the strobe light during inclement weather.
2.41.3 A pilot light shall be included to indicate when the light is in operation
2.42 Sun Shield
2.42.1 An interior adjustable transparent sun shield with a finished edge not less than 6" X 30" for Types B, C, and D vehicles, shall be installed in a position convenient for use by driver.
2.42.2 On all Type A buses the sun shield (visor) shall be installed according to the manufacturer's standard.
2.43 Traction Assisting Devices
2.43.1 Where required or used, sanders shall:
2.43.1.1 Be of hopper cartridge valve type;
2.43.1.2 Have a metal hopper with all interior surfaces treated to prevent condensation of moisture;
2.43.1.3 Be of at least 100 pound (grit) capacity;
2.43.1.4 Have cover on the filler opening of hopper, which screws into place, thereby sealing the unit airtight;
2.43.1.5 Have discharge tubes extending to the front of each rear wheel under the fender;
2.43.1.6 Have no clogging discharge tubes with slush proof, non freezing rubber nozzles;
2.43.1.7 Be operated by an electric switch with telltale pilot light mounted on the instrument panel;
2.43.1.8 Be exclusively driver controlled; and
2.43.1.9 Have a gauge to indicate that the hopper needs refilling when it reaches one quarter full.
2.43.2 Automatic traction chains may be installed.
2.44 Undercoating
2.44.1 Entire underside of bus body, including floor sections, cross member and below floor line side panels, shall be coated with rust proofing material for which the material manufacturer has issued a notarized certification of compliance to the bus body builder that materials meet or exceed all performance and qualitative requirements of paragraph 3.4 of Federal Specification TT-C-520b using modified test procedures* for following requirements:
2.44.1.1 Salt spray resistance, pass test modified to 5% salt and 1000 hours;
2.44.1.2 Abrasion resistance, pass; and
2.44.1.3 Fire resistance, pass.
*Test panels to be prepared in accordance with paragraph 4.6.12 of TT-C-520b with modified procedure requiring that the test be made on a 48 hour air cured film at a thickness recommended by the material manufacturer.
2.44.2 The undercoating material shall be applied with suitable airless or conventional spray equipment to the recommended film thickness and shall show no evidence of voids in cured film.
2.45 Ventilation
2.45.1 Auxiliary fans (2) shall meet the following requirements.
2.45.1.1 Fans for left and right sides shall be placed in a location where they can be adjusted for maximum effectiveness and where they do not obstruct vision to any mirror, the roadway, or students outside the bus. Note: Type A buses may be equipped with one fan.
2.451.2 fans shall be of 6" diameter
2.45.1.3 fan blades shall be covered with a protective cage. Each fan shall be controlled by a separate switch.
2.45.2 The bus body shall be equipped with a suitably controlled ventilating system of sufficient capacity to maintain proper quantity of air under operating conditions without having to open windows except in extremely warm weather.
2.45.3 Static type, non closeable exhaust ventilation shall be installed toward the front of the bus.
2.45.4 Roof hatches designed to provide ventilation in all types of exterior conditions may be provided. They may be equipped with additional ventilating fans.
2.46 Wheelhousing
2.46.1 The wheelhousing opening shall allow for easy tire removal and service.
2.46.2 Wheelhousings shall be attached to the floor sheets in such a manner so as to prevent any dust, water or fumes from entering the body. Wheelhousings shall be constructed of at least 16 gauge steel.
2.46.3 The inside height of the wheelhousings above the floor line shall not exceed 12".
2.46.4 The wheelhousings shall provide clearance for installation and use of tire chains on single and dual (if so equipped) power driving wheels.
2.46.5 No part of a raised wheelhousing shall extend into the emergency door opening.
2.47 Windows
2.47.1 Each side window, other than emergency exits designated to comply with FMVSS 217, shall provide an unobstructed opening of at least 9" high but not more than 13" high and at least 22" wide, obtained by lowering the window. One side window on each side of the bus may be less than 22" wide.
2.47.2 Optional tinted and frost free glazing may be installed in all doors, windows, and windshields consistent with federal, state, and local regulations. Windshields shall be tinted with maximum integral tinting allowed by federal or ANSI standards with a shaded band across the top.
2.48 Windshield Washers: A windshield washer system shall be provided.
2.49 Windshield Wipers
2.49.1 A two speed or variable speed windshield wiping system shall be provided. An intermittent feature may be provided.
2.49.1.1 For bus chassis and bodies produced after March 1, 2003, a two speed or variable speed windshield wiping system shall be provided and an intermittent feature shall be provided.
2.49.2 The wipers shall be operated by one or more air or electric motors of sufficient power to operate the wipers. If one motor is used, the wipers shall work in tandem to give full sweep of windshield.
2.50 Wiring
2.50.1 All wiring shall conform to current SAE standards.
2.50.2 Circuits:
2.50.2.1 Wiring shall be arranged in circuits, as required, with each circuit protected by a fuse, circuit breaker or field effect transistor. A system of color and number coding shall be used and an appropriate identifying diagram shall be provided to the end user, along with the wiring diagram provided by the chassis manufacturer. The wiring diagrams shall be specific to the bus model supplied and shall include any changes to wiring made by the body manufacturer. Chassis wiring diagrams shall also be supplied to the end user. A system of color and number coding shall be used on buses. The following body interconnecting circuits shall be color coded as noted:
FUNCTION COLOR
Left Rear Directional Lamp Yellow
Right Rear Directional Lamp Dark Green
Stop Lamps Red
Back up Lamps Blue
Tail Lamps Brown
Ground White
gnition Feed, Primary Feed Black
The color of cables shall correspond to SAE J 1128.
2.50.2.2 Wiring shall be arranged in at least six regular circuits as follows:
2.50.2.2.1 Head, tail, stop (brake) and instrument panel lamps;
2.50.2.2.2 Clearance lamps and stepwell lamps that shall be actuated when service door is open;
2.50.2.2.3 Dome lamps;
2.50.2.2.4 Ignition and emergency door signal;
2.50.2.2.5 Turn signal lamps; and
2.50.2.2.6 Alternately flashing signal lamps.
2.50.2.3 Any of the above combination circuits may be subdivided into additional independent circuits.
2.50.2.4 Heaters and defrosters shall be wired on an independent circuit.
2.50.2.5 Whenever possible, all other electrical functions (such as sanders and electric type windshield wipers) shall be provided with independent and properly protected circuits.
2.50.2.6 Each body circuit shall be coded by number or letter on a diagram of circuits and shall be attached to the body in a readily accessible location.
2.50.3 The entire electrical system of the body shall be designed for the same voltage as the chassis on which the body is mounted.
2.50.4 All wiring shall have an amperage capacity exceeding the design load by at least 25%. All wiring splices are to be done at an accessible location and noted as splices on the wiring diagram.
2.50.5 A body wiring diagram, of a size which can be easily read shall be furnished with each bus body or affixed in an area convenient to the electrical accessory control panel.
2.50.6 The body power wire shall be attached to a special terminal on the chassis.
2.50.7 All wires passing through metal openings shall be protected by a grommet.
2.50.8 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, which shall be water resistant and corrosion resistant.
Disclaimer: These regulations may not be the most recent version. Delaware may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. Please check official sources.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google
Privacy Policy and
Terms of Service apply.
