West Virginia Code of State Rules
Agency 126 - Education
Title 126 - PROCEDURAL RULE BOARD OF EDUCATION
Series 126-092 - West Virginia School Bus Transportation Regulations, Procedures, and Specifications for the Design and Equipment of School Buses (4336)
Attachment A - West Virginia Minimum Requirements for Design and Equipment of School Buses

Universal Citation: 126 WV Code of State Rules A

Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 38, September 20, 2024

NOTE: Equivalency - Permission to use a device or material as an "equivalent" to that called for in the "requirements" must be requested in writing by the manufacturer or owner. Any item supplied as an "equivalent" must have prior approval in writing from the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) Executive Director of the Office of School Facilities and Transportation (State Director).

New Products - New products may be subjected to the experimental and field test evaluation procedures facilitated by the WVDE Office of School Facilities and Transportation staff for one year from the start date. The staff in conjunction with the State Director may determine the county(ies) in which the field test evaluation will be conducted and the length of time of the evaluation.

Changes - Any proposed changes in design or equipment by counties after receipt of the school bus must have prior approval in writing from the State Director.

1. School Bus Chassis.

1.1. Air Cleaner.

1.1.a. The engine intake air cleaner shall be dry element type and properly installed by the chassis manufacturer to meet engine specifications. The manufacturer shall provide an air restriction indicator device. Exception: Type D vehicles with engine in rear are required to have a clearly visible air restriction indicator mounted in the engine compartment.

1.2. Axles.

1.2.a. The front and rear axles including suspension assemblies and all frame-to-ground components shall have a gross axle weight rating (GAWR) at ground at least equal to that portion of the load as would be imposed by the chassis manufacturer's maximum gross vehicle weight rating.

1.2.b. All vehicles shall be equipped with appropriate GAWR axles or suspension systems and tires by chassis manufacturer.

1.2.c. The front axle shall be heavy-duty bus type and equipped with oil bath (synthetic lubricant) wheel bearings. Exception: Type A buses.

1.3. Back Up Alarms.

1.3.a. All buses shall be equipped with an audible electrical warning device, automatically actuated when the bus is in reverse gear.

1.3.b. The device shall be of 112 decibels (dB), meeting Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J994B. The device shall be mounted behind the rear axle, between the frame rails, and shall emit an intermittent sound. Variable sound is not permitted.

1.4. Brakes (Air).

1.4.a. A braking system including a service brake and parking brake shall be provided.

1.4.b. Buses using an air-operated braking system shall be equipped with a Wig-Wag warning device and/or devices readily audible, which have a minimum rating of 80 dB and a maximum rating of 85 dB measured at the operator's ear and visible to the operator. The device will give a continuous warning when the air pressure available in the system for braking is 60 pounds per square inch (psi) or less and must remain activated until the system is at or above 60 psir. An illuminated gauge that will indicate to the operator the air pressure in pounds per square inch or the inches of mercury vacuum available for the operation of the brakes shall be provided. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) shall be standard on units with air brakes.

1.4.b.1. Air brakes shall be installed on all chassis. Exception: Electric-powered vehicle, Type A and less than 35 passenger vehicles.

1.4.b.2. All air-operated brake systems shall:

1.4.b.2.A. have S-Cam type on all wheels incorporating a long-stroke brake chamber. Exception: Air Disc.

1.4.b.2.B. use the same brand of automatic slack adjuster on each axle. Exception: Air Disc

1.4.b.2.C. have at least 13.2 cubic feet per minute (CFM) air compressor.

1.4.b.2.D. be protected by a desiccant type air dryer with an Air Dryer Internal Purge (ADIP) or equivalent spin-on replaceable filter.

1.4.b.2.E. be equipped with an engine or an exhaust brake. A clearly identified manual control shall be within easy reach of the operator, in addition to a modulated control through the brake treadle valve. Exception: Propane and gasoline school buses. Propane and gasoline buses may be equipped with drive line retarder systems.

1.4.b.2.F. have a Schrader valve to charge the school bus air system in the event of a compressor failure.

1.4.b.2.G. be equipped with long stroke welded clevis air chambers. Exception: Air Disc

1.4.b.2.H. be equipped with automatic slack adjusters. Exception: Air Disc

1.4.b.3. Air disc type brakes installed by chassis manufacturers are permissible.

1.4.b.4. All air brake systems shall be designed to permit visual inspection of brake lining wear without removal of any chassis components.

1.4.b.5. Any brake system dry reservoir shall be safeguarded by a check valve or equivalent device so 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.

1.5. Brakes (Hydraulic).

1.5.a. Buses using a hydraulic assist-booster in the operation of the brake system shall:

1.5.a.1. be equipped with warning signals that are readily audible and visible to the operator and that will provide continuous warning in the event of a loss of fluid-flow from the primary source or loss of electric source powering the back-up system.

1.5.a.2. be equipped with a source of hydraulic pressure, automatically initiated upon loss of power from primary source, and operating independently of the primary power source.

1.5.b. All brake lines and power and booster-assist lines shall be protected from excessive heat and vibration and be installed to prevent chafing.

1.5.c. All brake systems shall be designed to permit visual inspection of brake lining wear without removal of any chassis components. Exception: Type A

1.6. Brake (Parking).

1.6.a. The parking brake, when applied, shall remain in the applied position despite exhaustion of source of energy used for application or leakage of any kind.

1.6.b. 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.

1.6.c. The parking brake knob shall be an easy-grip design.

1.7. Bumpers.

1.7.a. All bumpers are to comply with the National School Transportation Specifications and Procedures (NSTSP) and shall be painted black or manufacturer's standard. (See subsection 2.5.a.2.).

1.7.b. Exception: Type A.

1.8. Certification.

1.8.a. The bus manufacturer and the bus dealer shall certify in writing to the State Director that the product meets all applicable federal and state requirements.

1.8.b. The first production unit of each type shall be used as a "pilot model" and shall be inspected at the manufacturing facility or a location to be determined by the State Director in consultation with the dealer prior to any remaining units being produced.

1.8.c. The bus shall have a data tag installed on the bus that states the maximum seating capacity which includes the driver.

1.9. Differential.

1.9.a. The differential ratio shall be determined by the dealer to provide the best possible fuel economy/performance balance.

1.9.b. In no case shall the ratio be used to limit road speed.

1.10. Drive Shaft.

1.10.a. The torque capacity of the drive shaft assembly shall exceed the maximum engine torque as developed through the lowest transmission gear reduction.

1.10.a. Each drive shaft section shall be protected by a metal guard or guards around the circumference of the drive shaft to prevent whipping through the floor or dropping to the ground if broken.

1.11. Electrical System.

1.11.a. Battery.

1.11.a.1. Diesel Power: Three Group 31 batteries with a minimum of 1950 cold cranking amps (CCA) total are required. Exception: Type A gasoline-powered buses shall have two batteries.

1.11.a.2. Battery cables of sufficient length without splices shall be provided by the chassis manufacturer.

1.11.a.2.A. All cables shall conform to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Standard J541 with respect to electrical resistance.

1.11.a.2.B. All cable assemblies shall conform to American Trucking Association-Truck Maintenance Council (ATA-TMC) RP105.

1.11.a.2.C. The manufacturer shall assure continuous ground integrity.

1.11.a.3. Batteries for Type A, C, and D vehicles shall be mounted in the body skirt by the body manufacturer.

1.11.a.4. All cables, mounting, etc., shall conform to current design specifications.

1.11.a.5. The body manufacturer will be responsible for final cable and connections between batteries.

1.11.a.6. All buses shall be equipped with a body battery disconnect switch to allow the electrical source on the bus body to be turned off in case of an electrical short and when the bus is not in use.

1.11.a.7. The switch is to be placed in a location not readily accessible to the driver or passengers.

1.11.a.8. The location shall be labeled and the labeling shall be visible from the exterior of the bus.

1.11.b. Alternator.

1.11.b.1. All Type C and D vehicles shall have an alternator with a minimum charging rate of at least 200 amperes. All buses equipped with a wheelchair lift and/or air conditioning shall have a minimum of 240 amperes. Exception: Type A must use the manufacturer's highest possible capacity alternator.

1.11.b.2. The belt drive shall be capable of handling the rated capacity of the alternator with no detrimental effect on other drive components.

1.11.c. Lamps and Signals.

1.11.c.1. USA daytime running lamps are required and will be activated at all times that the engine is running.

1.11.d. Wiring.

1.11.d.1. All wiring shall conform to current applicable recommended practices of the Society of Automotive Engineers, with the capability of carrying a ten percent overload without damage to wiring circuits. 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.

1.11.d.2. Chassis voltmeter and wiring shall be compatible with generating capacity. Type A vehicles may have an ammeter in lieu of a voltmeter.

1.11.d.3. In addition to the main 100 amperes body circuit terminal, the chassis manufacturer shall provide the following terminals for body connections:

1.11.d.3.A. tail lamps.

1.11.d.3.B. right turn signal.

1.11.d.3.C. left turn signal.

1.11.d.3.D. stop lamps.

1.11.d.3.E. back-up lamps.

1.11.d.3.F. instrument panel lamps, (rheostat controlled).

1.11.d.3.G. ignition circuit.

1.12. Exhaust System.

1.12.a. The after-treatment device and the tailpipe shall be outside the bus body and attached to the chassis, with hangers designed to accommodate expansion and contraction of the system without damage to the system or hanger(s).

1.12.b. The tailpipe shall be constructed of a corrosion-resistant tubing material at least equal in strength and durability to 16-gauge steel tubing.

1.12.c. The tailpipe shall be flush with but not extend more than one inch beyond the perimeter of the body.

1.12.d. A left side exit is permissible.

1.12.e. The size of the tailpipe shall not be reduced after it leaves the muffler/after treatment device.

1.13. Fenders, Front.

1.13.a. Type C vehicles.

1.13.a.1. The front fenders shall be properly braced and free from any body attachment. Adequate clearance shall be maintained between tires and fenders so that contact will not occur.

1.13.a.2. A fiberglass tilt hood shall be provided with wiring quick-disconnect in the engine compartment, located at or near the radiator cradle. All electrical wiring between the fiberglass hood and the engine compartment shall pass through waterproof disconnect device(s) to facilitate removal and/or replacement of the hood.

1.13.a.3. The body manufacturer will furnish the mud flaps.

1.13.a.4. The fender/bumper design must prevent direct road spray between fender and front bumper, or a flap must be installed to prevent such spray.

1.14. Frame.

1.14.a. The frame or equivalent shall have the design and strength characteristics to correspond at least to standard practice for trucks of the same general load characteristics which are used for highway service.

1.14.b. Any secondary manufacturer that modifies the original chassis frame shall guarantee the performance of workmanship and materials resulting from such modification.

1.14.c. Any frame modification shall not be for the purpose of extending the wheelbase.

1.14.d. Holes in top or bottom flanges of the frame side rail shall not be permitted except as provided in the original chassis frame. There shall be no welding to frame side rails except by the chassis or body manufacturers.

1.14.e. Frame rails less than 50,000 psi must be reinforced to prevent cracking.

1.15. Fuel Tank.

1.15.a. The fuel tank on all buses 47 passengers and above shall have a minimum capacity of 60 gallons with a 55-gallon actual draw. It shall be filled and vented outside of the body. Construction will prevent the spillage or drainage of fuel on any part of the exhaust system. Exception: Type A vehicles. The fuel tank shall be the manufacturer's standard. All fuel tanks shall be constructed per the manufacturer's standards and with corrosion-resistant material.

1.15.b. No portion of the fuel system located to the rear of the engine compartment, except the filler tube, shall extend above the top of the chassis frame rail.

1.15.c. Fuel lines shall be mounted to obtain maximum protection from the chassis frame. The engine supply line shall be taken from top of tank.

1.15.d. The fuel filter with a replaceable element shall be installed between the fuel tank and the injector pump. A flexible gasoline and oil-proof connection shall be provided at the engine end of the fuel line.

1.15.e. A drain plug of at least 1/4 inch pipe thread shall be located in the center of the bottom of tank.

1.15.f. A fill-pipe cap shall be designed to minimize spillage of fuel when the bus turns a corner in either direction. If venting of the fuel tank is done other than through the fill-pipe cap, the cap shall be of a non-vented type. (See provision for fuel systems in FMCSA regulations.)

1.15.g. A port shall be provided in the fuel tank for auxiliary equipment.

1.16. Governor.

1.16.a. The speed shall be controlled electronically, set at a max speed of 65 MPH.

1.17. Heating System, Provision For.

1.17.a. The chassis engine shall have plugged openings for the purpose of supplying hot water for the bus heater system. The opening shall be suitable for attaching a 3/4 inch pipe thread/hose connector. The engine shall be capable of su water, having a temperature of at least 170 degrees Fahrenheit, at a flow rate of 50 pounds per minute at the return end of 30 feet of a one inch diameter automotive hot water heater hose.

1.17.b. The SAE 20R3 - Class D2 hose shall be used throughout the bus heating systems. An engine cooling system hose shall meet the applicable SAE Standard.

1.18. Horn(s).

1.18.a. A bus shall be equipped with dual horns of standard make, capable of producing complex sound in bands of audio frequencies between 250 and 2000 cycles per second with a sound level of 110 dB at three feet, per SAE Standard J377. The measurement shall be made with the meter set at flat response - C weighting.

1.18.b. Air horns are not permissible.

1.19. Instruments and Instrument Panel.

1.19.a. Lamps in lieu of gauges are not permissible.

1.19.b. Chassis shall be equipped with the following instruments and gauges:

1.19.b.1. speedometer.

1.19.b.2. odometer or trip meter to give accrued mileage including tenths of miles.

1.19.b.3. voltmeter with graduated scale to 16 volts. Exception: Type A

1.19.b.4. oil pressure gauge with a red warning lamp to warn of low pressure. If equipped with low oil pressure warning buzzer, the buzzer shall only be activated when ignition switch is in "ON" position.

1.19.b.5. water temperature gauge with red warning lamp to indicate overheating.

1.19.b.6. fuel gauge.

1.19.b.7. upper beam head lamp indicator.

1.19.b.8. brake indicator gauge (air). A lamp indicator in lieu of a gauge is permissible on vehicles equipped with a hydraulic-assist power brake.

1.19.b.9. turn signal indicator.

1.19.b.10. automatic transmission temperature gauge. Exception: Type A

1.19.b.11. tachometer. Exception: Type A

1.19.b.12. wait to start indicator lamp where appropriate. Exception: Type A

1.19.c. All instruments shall be easily accessible for maintenance and repair.

1.19.d. Instruments and gauges shall be mounted on an instrument panel clearly visible to an operator while in normal seated position.

1.19.e. The instrument panel shall have lamps of sufficient candle power to illuminate all instruments, gauges and shift selector indicator for automatic transmission.

1.20. Oil Filter.

1.20.a. An oil filter, replaceable element, or cartridge-type shall be provided and shall be connected by flexible oil lines if it is not of built-in or engine-mounted design.

1.20.b. The oil filter shall have a minimum capacity of one quart.

1.20.c. Exception: Type A shall be manufacturer's standard size.

1.21. Openings.

1.21.a. All openings in the floorboard or fire wall between the chassis and passenger carrying compartment, such as gear shift lever and parking brake lever, shall be sealed.

1.22. Passenger Load.

1.22.a. Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the sum of the chassis weight, plus the body weight, the operator's weight, and total seated pupil weight.

1.22.a.1. For purposes of calculation, the operator's weight is 150 pounds.

1.22.a.2. For purposes of calculation, the pupil's weight is 120 pounds.

1.22.b. Actual GVW shall not exceed the chassis manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for the chassis.

1.23. Power and Gradeability.

1.23.a. GVW shall not exceed 185 pounds per certified net published horsepower of the engine at the manufacturer's recommended maximum number of revolutions per minute.

1.23.b. Gasoline and propane power are permissible in buses carrying 78 or fewer passengers.

1.23.c. It is recommended that county boards of education request assistance from WVDE Office of School Facilities and Transportation staff in determining the proper type of power for purchase based on location and use of buses (e.g., diesel, gasoline, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

1.23.d. The following chart presents the minimum horsepower (HP) and/or torque requirements for engines to be used in chassis-accommodating bus bodies of the respective capacities.

DIESEL POWER
Passenger Capacity	Minimum Gross Horse power/Torque
Under 35	130HP/420
35 - 46	200HP/520
47 - 64	220HP/520
65 - 78	230HP/560
79 - 83	240HP/620
84 - 91	245HP/660

1.23.e. Type C and D vehicles, including propane and gasoline, shall be equipped with a fast idle control device.

1.23.f. All engines shall be equipped with an automatic engine cooling fan.

1.23.g. A recessed and covered receptacle for the block heater shall be mounted in the front bumper. Exception: Types A and D vehicles under 35 passengers, manufacturer's standard. Type D vehicles, rear engine - receptacle shall be located in the rear; and Type D vehicles, front engine - receptacle may be mounted to the bus body in front of the service door. Propane and gasoline powered vehicles are not required to meet this standard.

1.23.h. An electrical key shut down shall be required.

1.23.i. An installed closed combustion fuel fired heater is not permissible.

1.23.j. The warranty for the engine shall be a minimum five years/100,000 miles. All available warranty information must be provided to the purchaser.

1.23.k. Firewall insulation is required. Exception: Rear engine vehicles.

1.23.l. A maximum idle time shall be set at ten minutes. Exception: Lift-equipped buses.

1.24. Radiator.

1.24.a. Radiator shall be equipped to provide a visual fluid level inspection without removal of the radiator cap.

1.24.b. The fluid level indicator must be positioned as to afford easy visibility from the ground.

1.25. Shock Absorbers.

1.25.a. Buses shall be equipped with front and rear double-action shock absorbers at each wheel location compatible with the manufacturer's rated axle capacity.

1.26. Springs/Suspension.

1.26.a. Air suspension systems are standard on rear axle only. Exception: Type A

1.26.b. The clearance between springs and tire and between tires shall provide ample space for use of triple-side dual chains.

1.27. Stability Control.

1.27.a. The Electronic Stability Control shall be provided. Exception: Types A and D

1.28. Steering Gear.

1.28.a. All chassis shall be equipped with heavy-duty power steering of integral type with integral valves.

1.28.b. The design shall provide a means of lubrication for all wear points, if wear points are not permanently lubricated.

1.28.c. The steering mechanism shall provide for easy adjustment for lost motion.

1.28.d. No changes shall be made in the steering apparatus which are not approved by the chassis manufacturer.

1.28.e. There shall be clearance of at least twoinches between the steering wheel and the cowl instrument panel, windshield, or any other surface.

1.28.f. All chassis shall be equipped with a tilt steering wheel having a minimum diameter of 18 inches.

1.29. Tires and Rims.

1.29.a. Standard profile tubeless tires and rims of proper size with load ratings that equal or exceed axle ratings in these requirements shall be provided.

1.29.b. Dual rear tires shall be provided.

1.29.c. First line steel belted radial tires are required.

1.29.d. Hub piloted wheels are standard. Stud piloted disk wheels are optional.

1.29.e. The bus must have the original installed tire size on the data plate.

1.29.f. Aluminum or chrome wheels and/or covers are not permissible.

1.30. Tow Hooks.

1.30.a. Front and rear tow hooks shall be installed by the chassis manufacturer and shall be at least 200 degrees spiral, have a minimum inside diameter of 2.4 inches, and be mounted parallel to the bus frame rail.

1.30.b. Hooks shall be mounted in such a manner that the danger of the hooks becoming accidentally caught on objects on the ground is reduced. (Horizontally mounted is preferred.) Exception: Type A rear tow hooks only.

1.31. Transmission.

1.31.a. Automatic transmissions shall be equivalent to either the Allison 2500 Pupil Transport Series (PTS) five or six-speed or the Eat on Auto Shift transmission for buses of 35 to 76 passenger capacity inclusive or the 3000 PTS five or six-speed for buses of 77 to 90 passenger capacity.

1.31.b. The minimum fluid requirement for the automatic transmission is to be Allison or Eat on approved synthetic fluid.

1.31.c. The warranty for the transmission shall be a minimum of five years/unlimited mileage. Exception: Type A propane and gasoline can be manufacturers' standard.

1.31.d. Transmissions shall be programmed at the factory in the performance mode as the default setting.

1.32. Turning Radius.

1.32.a. Chassis with a wheelbase of 264 inches or less shall have a right and left turning radius of not more than 421/2 feet, curb-to-curb measurement.

1.32.b. Chassis with a wheelbase of 265 inches or more shall have a right and left turning radius of not more than 441/2 feet, curb-to-curb measurement.

2. School Bus Body.

2.1. Aisle.

2.1.a. All emergency exit doors shall be accessible by a 12 inch minimum aisle.

2.1.b. The aisle shall be unobstructed at all times by any type of barrier, seat, wheelchair or tie-down, unless a flip seat is installed and occupied.

2.1.c. The track of a track seating system is exempt from this requirement. A flip seat in the unoccupied (up) position shall not obstruct the 12 inch minimum aisle to any side emergency exit door.

2.2. Body Fluid Clean-Up Kit.

2.2.a. Each bus shall carry a Grade A metal or rigid plastic kit, mounted in an accessible place and identified as a body fluid clean-up kit with a directions-for-use sheet attached to the inside cover.

2.2.b. The kit shall be moisture resistant.

2.2.c. Contents shall include but not be limited to the following items:

2.2.c.1. one pair non-latex gloves.

2.2.c.2. one pick-up spatula or scoop.

2.2.c.3. one face mask.

2.2.c.4. infectious liquid spill control powder.

2.2.c.5. anti-microbial hand wipes - individually wrapped.,

2.2.c.6. germicidal disinfectant wipes tuber culocidal.

2.2.c.7. plastic bag with tie.

2.2.c.8. an optional STOP THE BLEED KIT.

2.3. Ceiling. (See Insulation and Interior.)

2.4. Child Reminder System.

2.4.a. An electronic device shall be installed that requires the bus operator to walk to the rear of the bus after each run to deactivate and to check for children left on the bus.

2.4.b. The device shall only be armed after the activation of the student loading light system.

2.4.c. There shall be an audible and/or visual warning to indicate to the bus operator the system has been armed.

2.4.d. A horn shall begin sounding either by opening the entrance door or within a 30 to 60-second delay after the system has been armed. Type A shall activate when the left side driver's door is opened also.

2.5. Color.

2.5.a. The school bus body shall be painted uniform "National School Bus Glossy Yellow" in compliance with NSTSP.

2.5.a.1. The hood, cowl, and fenders shall be National School Bus Glossy Yellow. Exception: Hood may be painted low luster yellow.

2.5.a.2. The chassis shall be black. The grille may be the manufacturer's standard and shall not be chrome.

2.5.b. Reflective material shall be installed on the bus. Material shall be automotive engineering grade or better, meeting initial reflectance values in Federal Highway Administration (FHA) FP-85 and retaining at least 50 percent of those values for a minimum of six years. Reflective materials and markings shall include all of the following:

2.5.b.1. "SCHOOL BUS" signs shall be marked with reflective National School Bus Glossy Yellow material comprising background for lettering of the front and rear "SCHOOL BUS" signs.

2.5.b.2. The sides of the bus body shall be marked with reflective National School Bus Glossy Yellow material at least one and3/4 inches but not more than two inches in width, extending the length of the bus body and located (vertically) as close as practicable to the floor line. Emergency window exits shall be marked with no greater than one and3/4 inches in width strip of reflective National School Bus Glossy Yellow material. The top, bottom, and each side shall be outlined.

2.5.b.3. The rear of the bus shall have the lettering STOP WHEN RED LIGHTS FLASH.

2.5.b.4. The rear of the bus body shall be marked with strips of retro-reflective material a minimum of one inch and a maximum of two inches in width to outline the perimeter of the rear of the bus.

2.6. Construction.

2.6.a The construction shall be of prime commercial quality steel or other material with strength at least equivalent to all steel as certified by the body manufacturer. Fiberglass or other composite materials are acceptable provided the construction meets all federal standards and the manufacturer certifies the materials to be of durable construction.

2.6.b. The construction shall meet the NSTSP for the Side Intrusion Test.

2.6.c. The bus body shall meet the Colorado Rack Test.

2.6.d. Bus bodies shall have a minimum 77 inches headroom. Exception: Type A minimum 62 inches.

2.7. Doors.

2.7.a. Service Door.

2.7.a.1. A service door shall be under the control of the operator, designed to afford easy release and prevent accidental opening, and controlled by a three-position switch that is installed to the left of the operator. Exception: Type A may be to the right. When the hand lever is used, no part shall come together to shear or crush fingers. A power-operated service door is required on Type A, C, and D buses. The service door emergency release shall be located below the windshield, accessible and identified to all passengers.

2.7.a.2. The service door shall be located on right side of the bus opposite operator and within direct view of operator. A decal shall be installed on the inside of the door with proper opening instructions when the front or rear side requires it to be released first.

2.7.a.3. The service door shall have a minimum horizontal opening of 24 inches and minimum vertical opening of 68 inches.

2.7.a.4. The service door shall be an outward opening door equipped with a grab handle on the outside of the door.

2.7.a.5. There shall be no door to the left of the operator on Type C and D vehicles. Type A vehicle under 35 passengers may be equipped with the chassis manufacturer's standard door.

2.7.a.6. All doors shall be equipped with padding at the top edge of each door opening. The pad shall be at least three inches wide and one inch thick and extend the full width of the door opening.

2.7.a.7. The service door shall be equipped with a vandal lock. Exception: Type A, exterior lock not permissible.

2.7.a.8. Stainless steel hand rails, sufficiently anchored and designed with a smooth contour to prevent catching of belts or articles of clothing as evidenced by passing the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) string and nut test, shall be provided on the rearward and forward side of the service door entrance.

2.7.b. Emergency Door.

2.7.b.1. A vandal lock shall be installed on all emergency doors. It shall be wired into the ignition and/or starting circuit to prevent starting of the engine with the door locked.

2.7.b.2. The vandal lock shall be equipped with an audible alarm to alert the driver that the vandal lock is engaged.

2.8. Emergency Exits.

2.8.a. The body of the bus shall be equipped with roof safety hatches that combine the following functions in each unit:

2.8.a.1. multi-position, fresh air ventilation without static vents.

2.8.a.2. a full handgrip release handle(s) permitting operation as emergency exit(s), accessible inside and outside the vehicle.

2.8.b. Each emergency exit shall comply with the current adopted version of the NSTSP.

2.9. Fastening Devices/Belt Cutter.

2.9.a. Each bus shall be equipped with a durable webbing cutter having a full-width hand grip and a protected, replaceable, or non-corrodible blade. The required belt cutter shall be mounted in a location accessible to the seated driver in an easily detachable manner.

2.9.b. Wheelchair lift-equipped buses shall have two belt cutters, one located at the front of the bus and one located at the rear of the bus.

2.10. Fire Extinguisher.

2.10.a. Each bus shall be equipped with at least one pressurized, dry chemical-type fire extinguisher of total metal construction, refillable, and securely mounted with a spring steel friction fit bracket. A pressure gauge shall be mounted on the extinguisher to be easily read without removing the extinguisher from its mounted position.

2.10.b. The fire extinguisher shall be of a type approved by the Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., with a total rating of not less than 2A-10-BC. The operating mechanism shall be sealed with a type of seal which will not interfere with use of the fire extinguisher.

2.11. First Aid Kit.

2.11.a. A bus shall have a removable moisture and dust proof first aid kit mounted in full view in an accessible place within the operator's compartment. This place shall be properly identified.

2.11.b. The minimum requirement is a 36 unit kit with contents as follows:

2.11.b.1. bandage compress, (sterile gauze pads) four inches five units.

2.11.b.2. bandage compress, (sterile gauze pads) two inches six units.

2.11.b.3. adhesive absorbent bandage (adhesive tape) one inch five units.

2.11.b.4. triangular bandage, 40 inches four units.

2.11.b.5. bauze bandage, four inches five units.

2.11.b.6. absorbent-gauze compress six units.

2.11.b.7. wire splints one unit.

2.11.b.8. non-latex gloves one unit.

2.11.b.9. kindergarten scissors one unit.

2.11.b.10. mouth-to-mouth airway (plastic breathing shield) one unit.

2.11.c. The mounting bracket shall be able to sustain a 20 G-force load in any direction except upward.

2.12. Floor.

2.12.a. The floor of the bus shall be of prime commercial quality steel of at least 14-gauge or other material equivalent in strength to 14-gauge steel. The floor shall be covered with approximately 19/32inch thickness plywood, at least five-ply, and shall be marine grade plywood, C-D Grade, as specified in the standard issued by the U. S. Department of Commerce and shall be attached to the metal floor with stainless steel fasteners. The floor shall be level from front-to-back and from side-to-side, except in wheel housing, toe board, and operator's seat platform areas.

2.12.b. All openings between the chassis and the passenger carrying compartment made due to alterations by the body manufacturer must be sealed.

2.13. Floor Covering.

2.13.a. The floor covering shall be of high-quality, heavy-duty elastomeric material with a rating of self-extinguishing (a burn rate of 0.1 mm or less) when tested in accordance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) 302, paragraph S4.3 (b) meeting current NSTSP. The floor covering shall have a smooth back.

2.13.b. The floor covering shall be permanently bonded to the sub-floor and must not blister, crack, or grow with reasonable use and maintenance. Bonding or adhesive material shall be waterproof and shall be of type recommended by the manufacturer of floor covering material. All seams or joints in flooring shall be sealed with waterproof sealer.

2.13.c. The floor covering in the aisle area shall be ribbed, non-skid type. Aisle strips shall be attached with stainless steel fasteners. Minimum overall thickness shall be 0.187 3/16 inch.

2.13.d. The floor covering for under the seat area, top of wheel housing, operator's compartment, and toeboard shall be smooth non-skid type and shall have a minimum thickness overall of 0.1251/8 inch. The covering shall be securely bonded to the contour of the wheel housing.

2.13.e. The cove molding shall be used along the side walls and rear corners. Metal or equivalent aisle joint strips shall be used to protect joints of flooring. However, painstaking care must be exercised to assure joints are properly fitted and sealed prior to fitting strips or molding to floor. Aisle strips shall be so shaped that the edges of same shall be drawn and held firmly to the flooring material. Welded seam one-piece construction is permissible.

2.13.f. Floor construction shall provide a properly sealed opening for access to the fuel gauge sending unit and/or in-tank fuel pump for all buses 35 passenger and above.

2.13.g. The floor covering shall not be black in color. Exception: Molded wheel housing covers.

2.14. Fuel Port Door.

2.14.a. The body manufacturer shall furnish a fuel port door on all vehicles. Exception: Type A

2.14.b. All vehicles shall have a fuel door labeled with proper fuel type and the label shall be within six inches of the door.

2.14.c. The fuel port door shall have a securement device.

2.14.d. A Diesel Engine Fluid (DEF) door is required if applicable and must be labeled.

2.15. Heaters and Air Conditioning.

2.15.a. Heating System.

2.15.a.1. The heater shall be hot water.

2.15.a.2. If only one heater is used, it shall be fresh-air or combination fresh-air and recirculation type.

2.15.a.3. If more than one heater is used, additional heaters may be re-circulating air type.

2.15.a.3.A. A mid-body heater of 50K British Thermal Unit (BTU) for buses that carry 65 passengers and up.

2.15.a.3.B. Each heater is to be independently controlled by a switch.

2.15.a.3.C. Each heater shall be attached to a separate circuit breaker or a field effect transistor (FET).

2.15.a.4. The heating system shall be capable of maintaining bus interior temperatures, as specified in test procedure SAE J2233.

2.15.a.5. All forced-air heaters installed by body manufacturers shall bear a name plate that indicates heater rating in accordance with School Bus Manufacturers Technical Council (SBMTC)-001, Standard Code for Testing and Rating Automotive Bus Hot Water Heating and Ventilating Equipment. The plate shall be affixed by the heater manufacturer and shall constitute certification that the heater performance is as shown on the plate.

2.15.a.6. All 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, Coolant System Hoses. Heater lines on the interior of the bus shall be shielded to prevent the scalding of the driver or passengers.

2.15.a.7. Each hot water system installed by a body manufacturer shall include one shutoff valve in the pressure line and one shut-off valve in the return line, with both valves at the engine in an accessible location. Exception: Type A. The valves may be installed in another accessible location.

2.15.a.8. All heaters in the passenger compartment shall be equipped with a device installed in the hot water pressure line which regulates the water flow to all passenger heaters. The device shall be conveniently operated by the driver while seated. The driver and passenger heaters may operate independently of each other for maximum comfort.

2.15.a.9. Accessible bleeder valves for removing air from the heater shall be installed in an appropriate place in the return lines of body company-installed heater.

2.15.a.10. Access panels shall be provided to make heater motors, cores, and fans readily accessible for service. An exterior access panel to the driver's heater may be provided.

2.15.a.11. At least two auxiliary fans six inches in diameter shall be installed, suspended from above on the driver's side of the windshield, and can be adjusted for maximum effectiveness. The fan blade shall be covered with a protective cage. Each fan shall be controlled by a separate switch. Auxiliary fans are not to be considered as part of the primary defrosting and defogging system. Exception: Type A

2.15.b. Passenger Compartment Air Conditioning (Optional).

2.15.b.1. The following specifications in this section are applicable to all types of school buses that may be equipped with air conditioning. This section is divided into three parts: Part One - Performance Specifications, Part Two - Test Conditions, and Part Three - Other Requirements Applicable to All Buses.

2.15.b.2. Performance Specifications.

2.15.b.2.A. Standard Performance.

2.15.b.2.A.1. The installed air conditioning system should cool the interior of the bus from 100 degrees to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, measured at three points (minimum) located four feet above the floor on the longitudinal centerline of the bus.

2.15.b.2.A.2. The three required points shall be:

1) three feet above the center point of the horizontal driver seat surface,

2) at the longitudinal midpoint of the body, and

3) three feet forward of the rear emergency door, or for Type D rear-engine buses, three feet forward of the end of the aisle.

2.15.b.2.A.3. Note for the Type A Vehicles. Placement of the rear thermocouple should be centered in the bus over the rear axle. The independent temperature reading of each temperature probe inside the bus shall be within a range of three degrees Fahrenheit of the average temperature at the conclusion of the test.

2.15.b.2.B. High Performance.

2.15.b.2.B.1. The installed air conditioning system should cool the interior of the bus from 100 degrees to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, measured at three points (minimum) located four feet above the floor on the longitudinal centerline of the bus.

2.15.b.2.B.2. The three required points shall be:

1) three feet above the center point of the horizontal driver seat surface,

2) at the longitudinal midpoint of the body, and

3) three feet forward of the rear emergency door, or for Type D rear-engine buses, three feet forward of the end of the aisle. Note for the Type A vehicles. Placement of the rear thermocouple should be centered in the bus over the rear axle. The independent temperature reading of each temperature probe inside the bus shall be within a range of three degrees Fahrenheit of the average temperature at the conclusion of the test.

2.15.b.3. Test Conditions.

2.15.b.3.A. The test conditions under which the above performance standards must be achieved shall consist of:

2.15.b.3.A.1. placing the bus in a room (such as a paint booth) where ambient temperature can be maintained at 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

2.15.b.3.A.2. heat-soaking the bus at 100 degrees Fahrenheit at a point measured two feet horizontally from the top of the windows on both sides of the bus, with windows open for two hours.

2.15.b.3.A.3. closing windows, turning on the air conditioner with the engine running at 1250 RPM, and cooling the interior of the bus to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, (standard performance) or 70 degrees Fahrenheit (high performance), within 30 minutes while maintaining 100 degrees Fahrenheit outside temperature.

2.15.b.3.B. The manufacturer shall provide test results that show compliance with standard systems. If the bid specifies, the manufacturer shall provide facilities for the user or user's representative to confirm that a pilot model of each bus design meets the above performance requirements.

2.15.b.4. Other Requirements for Air Conditioning.

2.15.b.4.A. 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 the bus.

2.15.b.4.B. Evaporators and ducting systems shall be designed and installed to be free of projections or sharp edges. Ductwork shall be installed so that exposed edges face the front of the bus and do not present sharp edges.

2.15.b.4.C. On school buses equipped with Type-2 seat belts having anchorages above the windows, the ducting (if used) shall be placed at a height sufficient not to obstruct occupant securement anchorages. This clearance shall be provided along the entire length (except at evaporator locations) of the passenger area on both sides of the bus interior.

2.15.b.4.D. The body may be equipped with insulation, including sidewalls, roof, firewall, rear, inside body bows, and plywood or composite floor Insulation to reduce thermal transfer.

2.15.b.4.E. All glass (windshield, service and emergency doors, side and rear windows) may be equipped with maximum integral tinting allowed by federal, state, or ANSI standards for the respective locations, except that windows rear of the driver's compartment, if tinted, shall have at least 28 percent light transmission.

2.15.b.4.F. Electrical generating capacity shall be provided to accommodate the additional electrical demands imposed by the air conditioning system.

2.15.b.4.G. Roofs may be painted white to aid in heat dissipation.

2.15.b.4.H. Air intake for any evaporator assembly(ies), except for front evaporator of Type A-1, shall be equipped with replaceable air filter(s) accessible without disassembly of evaporator case.

2.15.b.4.I. For all buses (except Type D rear engine transit) equipped with a rear evaporator assembly, evaporator shall not encroach upon head impact zone, but may occupy an area of less than 26.5 inches from the rear wall and 14 inches from the ceiling.

2.15.b.4.J. For Type D rear engine transit buses equipped with a rear evaporator over the davenport, the evaporator assembly may not interfere with rear exit window and may not extend above the rear seating row.

2.16. Identification.

2.16.a. The body shall bear words "SCHOOL BUS" in black letters at least eight inches high on both front and rear of body.

2.16.a.1. Lettering shall be placed as high as possible without impairment of its visibility.

2.16.a.2. Lettering shall conform to Series Bof Standard Alphabet for Highway Signs.

2.16.a.3. Decals or vinyl lettering are permissible.

2.16.a.4. SCHOOL BUS signs shall be marked with reflective National School Bus Glossy Yellow comprising background for lettering of the front and/or rear SCHOOL BUS signs.

2.16.b. Every bus shall be lettered ".............COUNTY SCHOOLS" on both sides of the bus, and numbered on both sides and rear.

2.16.b.1. Numbers on both sides shall be near front, in line with the lettering.

2.16.b.2. Lettering and numbering on sides of the bus shall be at least six inches high.

2.16.b.3. Decals or vinyl lettering are permissible.

2.16.c. The number of the bus shall be a minimum of five inches in height, in white or yellow, displayed on either the front bumper or the crossing arm.

2.17. Insulation.

2.17.a. The ceiling, walls, and bulkhead or bow cavities shall be fully insulated with proper material applied inside of outside panels by spray to deaden the sound.

2.17.b. The ceiling and walls shall be fully insulated with a thermal insulation that is fire resistant, Underwriters Laboratories (UL)-approved, and with a minimum R-value of 5.5. Insulation shall be installed so as to prevent sagging.

2.17.c. Additional interior noise abatement and acoustical package are permissible.

2.18. Interior.

2.18.a. Interior of the bus shall be free of all unnecessary projections likely to cause injury. This requires inner lining on ceilings and walls. If the ceiling is constructed to contain lapped joints, the forward panel shall be lapped by the rear panel, and the exposed edges shall be beaded, hemmed, flanged, or otherwise treated to minimize sharp edges.

2.18.b. The cowl shall not be modified, or accessories installed, to interfere with operator's visibility of gauges on the instrument panel.

2.18.c. The flammability of interior materials shall meet FMVSS 302.

2.18.d. The interior color of seats, panels, head bumpers, and floor covering shall not be black.

2.18.e. 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 (engine), shall not exceed 85 dB when tested according to the procedure found in the Noise Test Procedure - National Minimum Requirements.

2.18.f. Full length acoustical ceiling shall be provided.

2.19. Lamps and Signals.

2.19.a. All lamps, including installation, shall conform to current standards and recommendations of SAE, West Virginia Motor Vehicle Law and FMVSS 108.

2.19.b. Head Lamps.

2.19.b.1. Head and tail lamps shall be combined on a single circuit, served by a separate circuit breaker or field effect transistors (FET). There shall be no other electrical load added to the head lamp circuit.

2.19.c. Clearance and Side-Marker Lamps.

2.19.c.1. Clearance, side-marker, and identification lamps shall be protected or flush mounted and combined in a circuit controlled by the same switch.

2.19.d. Tail and Stop (Brake) Lamps shall meet NSTSP.

2.19.e. Back-up lamps shall meet NSTSP.

2.19.e.1. Two seven inch lamps or equivalent are required.

2.19.e.2. Additional lighting is required to illuminate the area around the rear tires automatically when the back-up lights have been activated.

2.19.e.3. The system shall be a white, light-emitting diode (LED), light-wired to the back-up light circuit.

2.19.e.4. The system shall illuminate a rectangular area on both sides of the vehicle beginning 29 inches aft of the center point of the rear axle and extending outward from the vehicle sides 24 inches and rearward 30 inches.

2.19.e.5. There shall be no point within this illuminated area having illumination of less than three-foot candles as tested on a bare concrete surface.

2.19.e.6. Back-up lights shall illuminate the ground at the rear of the bus when the rear exit door is opened.

2.19.f. Interior Lamps.

2.19.f.1. Interior lamps shall include two rows of dome lamps installed on two circuits so that lamps in the front half and lamps in the rear half of the bus are on separate circuits.

2.19.f.2. A stepwell light which adequately illuminates the stepwell shall be provided. It shall be connected in the clearance lamp circuit and activated when the service door is opened. A separate light shall illuminate the outside area at the stepwell.

2.19.g. School Bus Alternately Flashing Signal Lamps.

2.19.g.1. The bus shall be equipped with two red lamps at the rear of the vehicle and two red lamps at the front of the vehicle. In addition to the four red lamps, four amber lamps shall be installed so that one amber lamp is located near each red signal lamp at the same level but closer to the vertical centerline of the bus. The system of red and amber signal lamps shall be wired so that amber lamps are energized manually. The red lamps are automatically energized, and the amber lamps are automatically de-energized when the stop sign and front bumper crossing arm are extended or when the bus entrance door is opened. An amber pilot lamp and a red pilot lamp shall be installed adjacent to the driver controls for the flashing signal lamp to indicate to the driver which lamp system is activated.

2.19.g.2. Red lamps shall flash any time the stop sign and crossing arm are extended.

2.19.g.3. All flashers for alternately flashing red and amber signal lamps shall be enclosed in the body of a readily accessible location.

2.19.g.3.A. Each school bus shall be equipped with a system consisting of four red signal lamps designed to conform to SAE Standard J887 and four amber signal lamps designed to that standard except for color. This system, stop arm, and crossing arm shall be wired through a master switch butnot through the vehicle ignition switch.

2.19.g.3.B. Shields over lamps, painted black are required.

2.19.g.3.C. The system shall be wired so that the amber signal lamps are activated only by hand operation, and, if activated, are automatically deactivated, and red signal lamps are automatically activated when the bus entrance door is opened.

2.19.g.3.D. There shall be an indicator lamp which shall illuminate when the respective amber or red systems are actuated. The pilot lamp shall either go out or flash at an altered rate in the event the system is not functioning normally.

2.19.g.3.E. The signal lamp system shall operate as follows:

2.19.g.3.E.1. With the master switch on and the entrance door closed, the operator shall depress the hand switch. The member pilot lamp and amber signals shall illuminate.

2.19.g.3.E.2. The operator shall open the entrance door. The amber pilot lamp and amber signal lamps shall turn off, and the red pilot lamp and red signal lamps shall illuminate. The stop sign and crossing arm, if air or electrically powered, shall automatically extend.

2.19.g.3.E.3. The operator shall close the entrance door. The red pilot lamp and signal lamps shall turn off, and the stop sign and crossing arm, if air or electrically powered, shall retract immediately.

2.19.g.3.E.4. The operator shall open entrance door without depressing the hand switch. The red pilot lamp and red signal lamps shall illuminate. The stop sign, if air or electrically powered, shall automatically extend.

2.19.g.3.E.5. With the master switch off, the depressing hand switch shall not actuate the amber signal system, nor shall opening the entrance door actuate the red signal system, the stop sign, or crossing arm.

2.19.g.3.E.6. The vehicle's red loading lights shall have the ability to be activated with the key in the on or off position. If the system utilizes a single switch to activate the red lights, it shall be protected against possible accidental activation while the bus is in motion.

2.19.g.3.E.7. All loading light controls shall be to the left of the operator. Exception: Type A.

2.19.g.4. Installation Requirements.

2.19.g.4.A. Each flashing signal lamp shall be mounted with its axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of vehicle.

2.19.g.4.B. The front and rear alternately flashing signal lamps shall be spaced as far apart laterally as practicable.

2.19.g.4.C. The alternately flashing signal lamps shall be mounted at the front above the windshield and at the rear so that the lower edge of the lens is not lower than the top line of the side window.

2.19.g.4.D. The vertical and lateral vision of the front and rear alternately flashing warning lamps shall not be obstructed by any part of the body or lamp house insofar as standard bus body construction shall permit.

2.19.g.4.E. The area around each lamp shall have a readily visible black border for contrast purposes.

2.19.g.4.F A separate fuse, circuit breaker, or FET adequate to prevent damage to the system in the event of a dead short shall be provided between the power source and the master switch.

2.19.h. Roof Mounted Strobe Lamp.

2.19.h.1. A strobe lamp, white in color, shall be mounted on the roof of the school bus.

2.19.h.2. The lamp shall be a maximum of five inches in height, located on the center line of the roof and behind the rear roof hatch.

2.19.h.3. The strobe lamp shall be a double flashing Class 2, with a minimum of ten joules when using the gaseous tub lamp.

2.19.h.4. An LED strobe light is permissible as a Class 1 double flashing light.

2.19.i. Turn Signal Lamps.

2.19.i.1. Turn signal lamps shall meet the NSTSP standards.

2.19.i.2. Type A, C, and D vehicles shall have a protected lamp mounted on the right side behind the service door and on the left side behind the stop arm signal, wired into the turn signal circuit.

2.19.j. Emergency Warning Device.

2.19.j.1. Each school bus shall be supplied with a minimum of at least three reflective triangle road warning devices in a container supplied but not mounted by the body manufacturer.

2.19.k. Each school bus must have an exterior skirt mounted landing lamp at the entrance door.

2.20. Mirrors.

2.20.a. Interior Mirror.

2.20.a.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.

2.20.a.2. The mirror shall be a minimum of six inches x 30 inches. Exception: Type A vehicles may be six inches x 16 inches.

2.20.b. Exterior Mirrors.

2.20.b.1. All exterior mirrors are to be heated and must conform to FMVSS 111.

2.20.b.2. Remote controlled external rear view mirrors are required.

2.21. Mounting.

2.21.a. The body to chassis mounting shall meet the NSTSP standards and provide adequate body to chassis insulation with permanently installed insulators.

2.22. Mud Flaps.

2.22.a. Mud flaps or guards are required and shall be provided by the body manufacturer for both front and rear wheels. They shall be constructed of heavy-duty multi-ply mud flap material.

2.22.b. Front mud flaps or guards shall be of adequate size to protect body areas vulnerable to road debris from wheels and mounted to be free of wheel movement at all times.

2.22.c. Rear mud flaps or guards shall be comparable in size to width of the rear wheel housing and shall reach within approximately nine inches of the ground when the bus is empty. They shall be mounted at a distance from the wheels to permit free access to spring hangers for lubrication and maintenance and to prevent being pulled off while the vehicle is in reverse motion and damage by tire chains.

2.23. Overall Length.

2.23.a. The overall length of the bus shall not exceed 45 feet.

2.24. Overall Width.

2.24.a. The overall width of the bus shall not exceed 102 inches, excluding authorized safety equipment.

2.25. Rub Rails.

2.25.a. There shall be at least three black rub rails located as follows:

2.25.a.1. one at seat level,

2.25.a.2. one at floor level, and

2.25.a.3. one at bottom of body skirt. Exception: Type A vehicles.

2.25.b. Rub rails shall extend from the rear of the entrance door completely around the bus to the point of curvature near the outside cowl on the left side. At least one rub rail will extend around the rear of the bus. Exception: Type D vehicles with rear engine.

2.25.c. Rub rails shall be one piece except where broken by the emergency door, wheel housings, battery box, access panels, the corner of bus, etc. All ends shall be capped.

2.25.d. Rub rails shall be securely attached at least twice to each body post and upright structural member within their length.

2.25.e. Rub rails shall be four inches or more in width, of 16-gauge steel or suitable material of equivalent strength, and constructed in corrugated or ribbed fashion.

2.25.f. Rub rails shall be applied outside the body or outside body posts. Pressed-in or snap-on rails do not satisfy this requirement.

2.26. Seat Belt for Operator.

2.26.a. A Type 2 lap belt/shoulder belt shall be provided for the operator.

2.26.b. On buses where the driver's seat and upper anchorage for the shoulder belt are both attached to the body structure, a driver's seat with an integrated Type 2 lap/shoulder belt may be substituted. Lower anchors (tethers) shall be adjustable.

2.26.c. On buses where the driver's seat and upper anchorage for the shoulder belt are separately attached to both body and chassis structures (i.e., one attached to the chassis and the other attached to the body), a driver's seat with an integrated Type 2 lap/shoulder belt should be used.

2.26.d. The assembly shall be equipped with an emergency locking retractor for the continuous belt system.

2.26.e. On all buses except Type A that are equipped with a standard chassis manufacturer's driver's seat, the lap portion of the belt system shall be guided or anchored to prevent the driver from sliding sideways under the belt system.

2.26.f. The lap/shoulder belt shall be designed to allow for easy adjustment to fit properly and to effectively protect drivers varying in size from 5th percentile adult female to 95th percentile adult male.

2.26.g. Lap belt/shoulder belt shall be orange in color.

2.27. Seats.

2.27.a. All seats shall have minimum depth of 15 inches.

2.27.b. Any two seats of the first two rows of seats on all buses shall be simultaneous seat-belt ready seats, equipped with Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) systems for Child Safety Restraint Systems (CSRS).

2.27.c. For securing child infant seats, the seats must meet FMVSS 210, FMVSS 222, and FMVSS 225 requirements.

2.27.d. All such 39 inch and larger passenger seats must be equipped with two sets of anchorage points per bench seat.

2.27.e. All such passenger seats with a seat width of fewer than 36 inches must be equipped with one set of anchorage points per bench seat.

2.27.f. All seats and crash barriers must comply with all applicable FMVSS standards.

2.27.g. No bus shall be equipped with jump seats or portable seats.

2.27.h. The forward-most pupil seat on the right side of bus shall be located not to interfere with the operator's vision and not farther forward than the crash barrier behind the operator or rear of the operator's seat when adjusted to its rear-most position.

2.27.i. A modesty panel will be provided under the right and left front crash barrier.

2.27.j. All restraining barriers and passenger seats shall meet the criteria contained in FMVSS 302.

2.27.k. The operator's seat shall be of the high-back type air ride with a minimum seat back adjustment of 15 degrees and with a head restraint to accommodate a 95th percentile adult male as defined in FMVSS 208. It shall have an adjustment clip on the integrated three-point belt that will adjust to any size driver. The seat shall have a lumbar support. Exception: Type A

2.27.l. Type A vehicle bodies shall be equipped with restraining barriers conforming to FMVSS 222 School Bus Passenger Seating - Crash Protection.

2.27.m. The last seat on the left shall not exceed 30 inches in width so as not to block the rear emergency exit door. Exception: Rear-engine transit school bus.

2.28. Steps.

2.28.a. The first step at the entrance door shall be not fewer than ten inches and not more than 14 inches 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 entrance door shall be 12 inches to 16 inches from the ground.

2.28.a.1. An auxiliary step may be provided to compensate for the increase in ground-to-first-step clearance.

2.28.a.2. The auxiliary step is not required to be enclosed.

2.28.b. Step risers shall not exceed a height of ten inches. Exception: When plywood is used on a steel floor or step, the riser height may be increased by the thickness of the plywood.

2.28.c. Steps shall be enclosed to prevent accumulation of ice and snow.

2.28.d. Steps shall not protrude beyond the side body line.

2.29. Step Treads.

2.29.a. All steps, including the floor line platform area, shall be covered with an elastomer floor covering having a minimum overall thickness of 0.187 inch.

2.29.b. The step covering shall be permanently bonded to a durable backing material that is resistant to corrosion.

2.29.c. Steps, including the floor line platform area, shall have a 11/2 inch nosing that contrasts in color by at least 70 percent measured in accordance with the contrasting color specification in 36 CFR, Part 1192, ADA, Accessibility Guidelines for Transportation Vehicles.

2.29.d. Step treads shall have the following characteristics.

2.29.d.1. Abrasion resistance: Step tread material weight loss shall not exceed 0.40 percent, as tested under ASTM D-4060, Standard Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Organic Coatings by the Taber Abraser, (CS-17 Wheel, 1000 gram, 1000 cycle).

2.29.d.2. Weathering resistance: Step treads shall not break, crack, or check after ozone exposure (7 days at 50 phm at 40 degrees C) and Weatherometer exposure (ASTM D-750, Standard Test Method for Rubber Deterioration in Carbon-Arc Weathering Apparatus, seven days).

2.29.d.3. Flame resistance: Step treads shall have a calculated burn rate of .01 or less using the test methods, procedures, and formulas listed in FMVSS No. 302, Flammability of Interior Materials.

2.29.d.4. A spray-on application type material may be used in lieu of item A that meets the requirements of items B through D. The material shall be applied not only to the interior surfaces of the service door step treads but also to the exterior, if not covered by undercoating.

2.30. Stirrup Steps.

2.30.a. If the windshield and lamps are not easily accessible from the ground, there may be at least one folding stirrup step or recessed foothold installed on each side of the front of the body for ease of access when cleaning.

2.30.b. There shall be a grab handle installed in conjunction with the step.

2.30.c. 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.

2.31. Stop Sign and Crossing Control Arm.

2.31.a. There shall be a stop sign installed on the left outside of the body which shall be equipped with a wind guard.

2.31.a.1. The sign shall be of an octagonal shape with white letters and border, a red background, and be of reflective material.

2.31.a.2. Two alternately flashing, high intensity, red strobe lamps (LED are permissible) visible from both sides of the sign shall be provided.

2.31.a.3. The stop sign shall be air operated. Exception: Type A

2.31.a.4. The stop sign shall be capable of instantly reversing directions at any time during its cycle and immediately returning to the open or closed position in response to the operator's command through the operation of the door.

2.31.b. A solid-piece crossing control arm mounted to the right front bumper of the bus is required.

2.31.b.1. The device shall be air-powered. Exception: Type A

2.31.b.2. The crossing control arm shall be wired in conjunction with the stop sign and the alternately flashing signal lamp.

2.31.b.3. The crossing arm shall be equipped with a device to hold the arm to the bumper when the arm is not activated.

2.32. Storage Compartment.

2.32.a. Two compartments of adequate strength and capacity for storage of tire chains and other equipment shall be provided.

2.32.a.1. Such storage compartments shall be located outside the passenger compartment.

2.32.a.2. The dimensions of these compartments shall be a minimum of 25inches long, 16 inches wide, and 12 inches high. Exception: Type A vehicles may be manufacturer's standard size.

2.32.a.3. Vehicles with air conditioning shall have at least one compartment.

2.32.a.4. Buses with larger luggage compartments are not required to meet this standard.

2.32.b. A door with locks keyed alike as well as a proper latch shall be provided.

2.32.b.1. Such compartments shall be constructed with a provision for the drainage of water resulting from snow and ice on tire chains. Exception: Lift equipped bus compartment may be on the left or right.

2.33. Sun Shield.

2.33.a. An interior adjustable, transparent, and tinted sun shield at a minimum of six inches x 30 inches shall be provided.

2.33.b. The sun shield must be capable of being turned to an angle of 180 degrees when not in use. Exception: Type A vehicles under 35 passengers, manufacturer's standard.

2.34. Under coating/Metal Treatment.

2.34.a. All metal used in construction of the bus body shall be zinc-coated, aluminum-coated, or treated by an equivalent process before the bus is constructed. Excluded are items such as door handles, grab handles, interior decorative parts, and other interior plated parts.

2.34.b. All metal parts that will be painted shall be, in addition to other requirements, chemically cleaned, etched, zinc phosphate-coated, and zinc chromate or epoxy-primed or conditioned by an equivalent process.

2.34.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, unvented or undrained areas, and surfaces subjected to abrasion during vehicle operation.

2.34.d. As evidence that the above requirements have been met, samples of materials and sections used in construction of the bus body, when subjected to 1000-hour salt spray test as provided for in the latest revision of ASTM designation, B-117 Standard Method of Salt Spray (Fog) Testing, shall not lose more than ten percent of material by weight.

2.34.e. The entire underside of the bus body, including floor sections, cross member, chain box, chassis, and below floor line side panels, shall be coated with rust-proofing material for which the material manufacturer has issued notarized certification of compliance to the bus body builder that the material meets or exceeds all performance requirements of SAE J1959, September 2003 edition of the standard.

2.34.f. Undercoating material shall be applied with suitable airless or conventional spray equipment to recommended film thickness and shall show no evidence of voids in cured film.

2.34.g. The undercoating material shall not cover any exhaust or driveline components.

2.35. Ventilation.

2.35.a. The body shall be equipped with a suitable, controlled ventilating system of sufficient capacity to maintain proper quantity of air under operating conditions without the opening of windows except in extremely warm weather.

2.35.b. A static-type, non-closable exhaust ventilation shall be installed in the low-pressure area of the roof.

2.36. Video Equipment.

2.36.a. Video equipment shall be installed.

2.36.b. Installation shall be either by the dealer/manufacturer or the county and both equipment and installation shall be subject to the following guidelines:

2.36.b.1. the equipment must be installed in an area at the front of the bus.

2.36.b.2. the equipment is outside the federal head impact zone, FMVSS 222 School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.

2.36.b.3. the equipment is located in an area not likely to cause student injury.

2.36.b.4. the equipment shall be a minimum of a six-channel system. Camera head locations, if installed by the manufacturer, shall be chosen by the county. The equipment brand shall be chosen by the county. Exception: Type A shall be a minimum four-channel system and Type D shall be a minimum eight-channel system.

2.36.b.5. a video monitoring systems for passing stopped school buses must include the minimum system requirements established by W. Va. Code § 17C-12-8. The forward facing camera shall be mounted inside the bulkhead and,

2.36.b.5.A. must produce live digital and recorded video of vehicles being operated in violation of W. Va. Code.

2.36.b.5.B. must produce a recorded image of the license plate.

2.36.b.5.C. must record the activation status of at least one warning device (the red traffic warning lights and the side stop sign) mounted on the school bus and the time, date, and location of the vehicle when the image is recorded.

2.36.c. Additional guidelines for video equipment must be met.

2.36.c.1. The lettering on the side of the bus must not be obscured.

2.36.c.2. The equipment must not impede or block any emergency exits.

2.36.c.3. All wiring must be mounted inside the side of the bus and cannot be mounted inside the driver/passenger area.

2.36.c.4. All roof and side mounting locations must be sealed to ensure no leaks.

2.36.c.5. The system wiring must be separate from any emergency lights, alarms, etc.

2.36.c.6. The system must operate automatically and not require the driver to activate it.

2.36.c.7. Vendor/manufacturer must provide documentation to the county that the system is properly mounted and camera(s) are capturing clear video identifying a moving vehicle.

2.36.c.8. Installation by vendor/manufacturer must include warranty on the complete system for a minimum of 12 months after delivery of the bus.

2.36.c.9. Exterior cameras must be designed to eliminate movement due to vandalism or rough roads.

2.37. Wheel Housings.

2.37.a. Wheel housings shall be of full open type.

2.37.b. Wheel house openings shall allow for easy tire removal and service.

2.37.c. Wheel housings shall be designed to support seat and passenger loads and shall be attached to floor sheets in such a manner to prevent any dust or water from entering the body.

2.37.d. The inside height of wheel housings above the floor line shall not exceed 12inches.

2.37.e. Wheel housing shall provide clearance for installation and use of tire chains on single or dual power-driving wheels.

2.37.f. Rubber fenders that adequately protect the sides of the body from tire spray shall be provided. Exception: Type A may be a non-metallic material.

2.38. Windshield and Windows.

2.38.a. All glass in the windshield, windows, and doors shall be of approved safety glass (current Safety Code for Safety Glazing Motor Vehicles Operating on Land Highways Z-26.1) so mounted that the permanent mark is visible and of sufficient quality to prevent distortion of view in any direction. All glazing materials shall comply with FMVSS-205 and FMVSS-219.

2.38.b. The windshield shall have a horizontal gradient band starting slightly above operator's line of vision and gradually decreasing in lamp transmission to 20 percent or less at the top of the windshield. Exception: Types A and D vehicles may use tinted windshield if a gradient band is not available.

2.38.c. All buses are required to be equipped with split-sash windows.

2.38.d. Glass in all side and rear windows shall be of AS-3 grade or better, as specified by American Standards Association, Code Z-26.1.

2.38.e. Other than emergency exits designated to comply with FMVSS No. 217, Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention and Release, each side window shall provide an unobstructed opening of at least nine inches high (but not more than 13 inches high) and at least 22 inches wide, obtained by lowering the window. One window on each side of the bus may be less than 22 inches wide.

2.38.f. The latch shall be designed to latch positively and securely, with an ease of release that would enable pupils to open the window in an emergency.

2.38.g. A window drip rail which does not interfere with the size of the window opening shall be furnished.

2.38.h. The operator's window shall be of a sliding type. Double glazing is strongly recommended. Exception: Type A vehicles, manufacturer's standard.

2.38.i. Windshields shall comply with federal, state, and local regulations.

2.38.j. Emergency windows shall be vertically hinged.

2.39. Windshield Washers.

2.39.a. A windshield washer reservoir shall be furnished and shall be at least a three-quart capacity unless space restrictions limit size of the container.

2.39.b. A solvent shall be directed onto the windshield through jets in the wiper arm.

2.40. Windshield Wipers.

2.40.a. The bus shall be equipped with intermittent-speed wipers. Windshield wipers shall be powered by motor(s) on all vehicles and must meet SAE standard J198.

2.41. Wiring.

2.41.a. All wiring and lamps shall conform to current SAE standards and FMVSS 108.

2.41.b. The chassis to body current shall be controlled through a continuous duty or ECS solenoid of at least 105 ampere capacity.

2.41.c. All wiring shall have an ample capacity of exceeding a design load of at least 25 percent.

2.41.d. The body wiring diagram, sized to be easily read, shall be furnished with each bus body or affixed to an area convenient to the electrical accessory control panel.

2.41.e. Each wire passing through metal openings shall be protected by a grommet.

2.41.f. Wires not enclosed within the 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 and corrosion resistant.

2.41.g. Circuits.

2.41.g.1. Wiring shall be arranged into at least the following circuits:

2.41.g.1.A. head, tail, stop (brake), and instrument panel lamp.

2.41.g.1.B. clearance, stepwell, and body control panel. The stepwell lamp shall be activated when the service door handle is in the unlatched position. Control panel lamps may be on a separate rheostat from the instrument panel lamps.

2.41.g.1.C. dome lamps.

2.41.g.1.D. starter motor.

2.41.g.1.E. ignition, emergency door signal, and continuous duty solenoid or an electronic control system (ECS).

2.41.g.1.F. turn signal lamps.

2.41.g.1.G. alternately flashing red signal lamps.

2.41.g.1.H. horns.

2.41.g.1.I. heater #1.

2.41.g.1.J. heater #2.

2.41.g.1.K. heater #3.

2.41.g.1.L. electric wipers.

2.41.g.1.M. strobe lamp.

2.41.g.1.N. crossing arm.

2.41.g.2. Any of the above combination circuits may be subdivided into additional independent circuits.

2.41.g.3. Heaters and defrosters shall require at least one additional independent circuit for each heater.

2.41.g.4. Whenever possible, all other electrical functions, such as electric-type windshield wipers, shall be provided with independent and properly protected circuits.

2.41.g.5. Each body circuit shall be color coded and a diagram of the circuits shall be attached to the body in a readily accessible location.

2.41.g.6. All accessories, excluding lamps, such as heaters, defrosters, etc., shall be wired to a continuous heavy-duty solenoid or ECS (minimum 105 ampere) activated or energized through the ignition switch and can be tested through the accessory side of the ignition switch.

2.41.h. A separate circuit breaker or FET shall be provided for each circuit except starter, motor, and ignition circuits.

2.41.i. There shall be a manual noise suppression switch installed in the control panel. The switch shall be labeled and alternately colored. This switch shall be an on/off type, not a momentary type, that de-activates body and chassis equipment that produces noise, including, at least, the AM/FM radio, heaters, air conditioners, fans, and defrosters. This switch shall not de-activate safety systems, such as windshield wipers or lighting systems.

2.41.j. Buses may be equipped with a 12-volt power port in the driver's area.

NOTE:All available warranty information must be provided to the purchaser and to the State Director as part of the bid package or upon receipt of the bus.

3. Training Requirements.

3.1. The successful bidder will be required to provide training for county school bus mechanics, supervisors, and/or operators when requested by the State Director.

3.2. Such training, if required, will be specified in invitations to bid and will indicate the type, extent, and location of classes to be conducted.

4. Special Transportation Vehicle - Specially Equipped School Bus or Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle (MPV).

Equipping buses to accommodate students with disabilities is dependent upon the needs of the passengers. While one bus may be fitted with a lift, another may have belts installed to secure child seats. Buses so equipped are not to be considered a separate class of school bus, but simply a regular school bus that is equipped for special accommodations.

The specifications in this section are intended to supplement specifications in the Body and Chassis section. In general, specially equipped buses shall meet all the requirements of the preceding sections, plus those listed in this section. It is recognized that the field of special transportation is characterized by varied needs for individual cases and by rapidly emerging technologies for meeting individual student needs. A flexible, "common sense" approach to the adoption and enforcement of specifications for these vehicles, therefore, is prudent.

4.1. Definition.

4.1.a. Specially equipped school bus. Any school bus that is designed, equipped, and/or modified to accommodate students with special transportation needs.

4.2. General Requirements.

4.2.a. Specially equipped school buses shall comply with the National School Transportation Specifications & Procedures, the West Virginia Minimum Requirements for Design and Equipment of School Buses, and with the FMVSS applicable to their GVWR category.

4.2.b. Any school bus to be used for the transportation of children who utilize a wheelchair or other mobile positioning device, or who require life-support equipment that prohibits use of the regular service entrance, shall be equipped with a power lift, unless a ramp is needed for unusual circumstances related to passenger needs.

4.2.c. Bodies may, at the option of the manufacturer, incorporate a section approximately 35 inches or nine inches in addition to the standard 28 inches section if necessary to provide maximum utilization of space for seats and wheelchairs. Proper bracing shall be added as specified in the body standards.

4.2.d. A lift shall be located on the right side of the body, in no way attached to the exterior sides of the bus but confined within the perimeter of the school bus body when not extended. A rear emergency door lift may be installed only with written permission from the State Director.

4.2.e. A vehicle equipped with a power lift must contain adequate space and proper restraining devices for a minimum of three wheel chair bound passengers.

4.2.f. Each securement system location shall have a minimum clear floor area of 30 inches x 52 inches. Additional floor area may be required for some applications. Consultation between the user and the manufacturer is recommended to ensure adequate area is provided in the event more securement locations are needed.

4.3. Aisle.

4.3.a. The aisle leading to the emergency door and lift area from the wheelchair area shall be a minimum of 30 inches.

4.3.b. All wheelchair positions will be afforded the same available access.

4.4. Fastening Devices.

4.4.a. Wheelchair Restraints.

4.4.a.1. All mobile seating must be in a forward-facing direction secured with at least a fourpoint tie-down system with at least two tie-downs at the rear and two tie-downs at the front of the device.

4.4.a.2. The wheelchair securement system including all hardware (attachment bolts, track, etc.) must meet minimum impact forces of a 20 G, 30 MPH deceleration to simulate a frontal impact on the transport vehicle per WC18, Wheelchair Tie-downs and Occupant Restraint Systems for Use in Motor Vehicles (WC18).

4.4.a.3. All attachments or coupling systems which are designed to be connected and disconnected frequently must be operable by an adult person without the use of tools or other mechanical assistance.

4.4.a.4. All hardware and components of the securement system must be free of sharp or jagged areas and be made of corrosion resistant material or treated to resist corrosion.

4.4.a.5. All tie-downs used in the securement system for a mobile seating device must meet manufacturers' specifications and be of the automatic retractable type.

4.4.a.6. All tie-downs used in the securement system for a mobile seating device must be capable of adjustment in useful length of from four inches minimum to 34 inches maximum to provide sufficient flexibility to fit a majority of possible applications.

4.4.a.7. All tie-downs used in mobile seating devices must be manufactured using synthetic fiber woven webbing capable of being cut to release the mobile seating device in case of an emergency condition which would preclude using the normal release function of the tie-downs.

4.4.a.8. All securement straps for mobile seating devices must be marked indicating that they meet the requirements of WC18.

4.4.a.9. A floor anchorage system shall be installed that maintains the seating versatility of the school bus with a minimum of three wheelchair positions.

4.4.b. Occupant Restraints.

4.4.b.1. An occupant restraint must be included as part of each securement system. The occupant securement must consist of a retractable pelvic restraint and upper torso restraint.

4.4.b.2. The occupant restraint system including all hardware (attachment bolts, track, etc.) shall have been successfully tested in combination with a mobile seating device securement system to meet minimum impact forces of 20 G, 30 MPH deceleration to simulate a frontal impact on the transport vehicle per WC18.

4.4.b.3. All attachment or coupling systems designed to be connected and disconnected frequently must be operable by an adult without the use of tools or other mechanical assistance.

4.4.b.4. The mobile seating device restraint should be retractable and independent of the occupant restraint and designed so that the weight of the wheelchair is not absorbed by the occupant.

4.4.b.5. Adjustment devices, quick-release buckles, and webbing used in the construction of the occupant restraint system must meet requirements of FMVSS 209 and 222.

4.4.b.6. The pelvic restraint must be easily adjusted to fit a range of occupant sizes and contain a quick-release buckle. The upper torso restraint must be adjustable to fit a range of occupant sizes and be easily attached and disengaged from the pelvic restraint.

4.4.c. The manufacturer of the restraint systems must supply detailed instructions regarding the installation and use of the system, including mounting of attachment hardware or track, suggested angles for attaching tie-downs, and proper placement and positioning of the occupant restraint.

4.4.d. Padding or elimination of projections of structure or other similar elements must be considered in areas adjacent to the securement area of the mobile seating device.

4.4.e. Restraining Devices.

4.4.e.1. Seat frames shall be equipped with attachments or devices to which belts, restraining harnesses, or other devices may be attached.

4.4.e.2. Attachment framework or anchorage devices, if installed, shall conform to FMVSS 210.

4.5. Fire Blanket and Evacuation Aid.

4.5.a. Fire blanket shall be provided with a storage pouch, mounted to the wall conveniently located and identified as a fire blanket.

4.5.a.1. The fire blanket shall meet CRR 16 part 1610 standard for flammability of clothing.

4.5.a.2. The blanket shall be approximately 62 inches X 80 inches.

4.5.b. An evacuation aid shall be provided with a storage pouch, mounted to the wall conveniently located and identified as anevacuation aid and constructed with fire-resistant material.

4.6. Heaters. (See Heaters in the School Bus Body section.)

4.6.a. Bus bodies shall have a minimum of one heat exchanger in the rear section behind the rear wheel housing of the bus. The heater shall be on the left or right hand rear wall of the bus.

4.7. Identification.

4.7.a. Specially equipped school buses shall display the International Symbol of Accessibility below the window line.

4.7.b. Such emblems shall be white on blue or black background, shall not exceed 12 inches square in size, and shall be of a high-intensity, retro-reflective material meeting the requirements of Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) FP-85, Standard Specifications for Construction of Roads and Bridges on Federal Highway Projects.

4.8. Passenger Capacity Rating. (See Certification in School Bus Chassis section.)

4.9. Power Lift.

4.9.a. The power lift shall be located on the right side behind the rear wheel of the bus body.

4.9.b. All specially equipped school buses shall provide a level-change mechanism or boarding device, complying with section 4.9.c, with sufficient clearances to permit a wheelchair user to reach a securement location.

4.9.c. Vehicle lift and Installation.

4.9.c.1. Vehicle lifts and installations shall comply with the requirements set forth in FMVSS 403, Platform Lift Systems for Motor Vehicles, and FMVSS 404, Platform Lift Installations in Motor Vehicles.

4.9.c.1.A. The lift system must be made to prevent accidental brake application while the bus is in motion.

4.9.c.1.B. The lift activation switch shall be green in color or outlined in green.

4.9.c.2. The design load of the lift shall be at least 1000 pounds.

4.9.c.2.A. Working parts, such as cables, pulleys, and shafts, which can be expected to wear and upon which the lift depends for support of the load, shall have a safety factor of at least six, based on the ultimate strength of the material.

4.9.c.2.B. Non-working parts, such as platform, frame, and attachment hardware that would not be expected to wear, shall have a safety factor of at least three, based on the ultimate strength of the material.

4.9.d. Lift Capacity.

4.9.d.1. The lifting mechanism and platform shall be capable of operating effectively with a wheelchair and occupant mass of at least 1000 pounds.

4.9.d.2. For controls. (See 49 CFR 571.403, S6.7, Control systems.)

4.9.d.3. Emergency operations. (See 49 CFR 571.403, S6.9, Backup operation.)

4.9.d.3.A. If an override switch is utilized as part of the backup system, it must be designed to prevent accidental activation.

4.9.d.4. Power or equipment failures. (See 49 CFR 571.403, S6.2.2, Maximum platform velocity.)

4.9.d.5. Platform barriers. (See 49 CFR 571.403, S6.4.7, Wheelchair retention.)

4.9.d.6. Platform surface. (See 49 CFR 571.403, S6.4.2, S6.4.3, Platform requirements; see also Wheelchair or Mobility Aid Envelope figure at the end of this subsection.)

4.9.d.7. Platform gaps and entrance ramps. (See 49 CFR 571.403, S6.4.4, Gaps, transitions and openings.)

4.9.e. Platform deflection. (See 49 CFR 571.403, S6.4.5, Platform deflection.)

4.9.f. Platform movement. (See 49 CFR 571.403, S6.2.3, Maximum platform acceleration.)

4.9.g. The lift shall permit outboard facing of a wheelchair and mobility aid users only.

4.9.h. Note: This item refers to equipment specifications. (Also see section, Transportation for Students with Disabilities and Special Health Care needs, Subsection D, Special Equipment Use and Operation, for applicable operational procedures stating that "During lift operations[including manual] no one shall be allowed to stand on the lift platform.")

4.9.i. Handrails. (See 49 CFR 571.403, S6.4.9, Handrails.)

4.9.j. Circuit breaker. A resettable circuit breaker shall be installed between the power source and the lift motor. It shall be located as close to the power source as possible, but not within the passenger/driver compartment.

4.9.k. Excessive pressure. (See 49 CFR 571.403, S6.8, Jacking prevention.)

4.9.l. Documentation. The following information shall be provided with each vehicle equipped with a lift:

4.9.l.1. a phone number where information can be obtained about installation, repair, and parts. Detailed written instructions and a parts list shall be available upon request.

4.9.l.2. detailed instructions regarding use of the lift shall be readily visible when the lift door is open, including a diagram showing the proper placement and positioning of wheelchair/mobility aids on the lift.

4.9.m. Training materials. The lift manufacturer shall make training materials available to ensure the proper use and maintenance of the lift. These may include instructional videos, classroom curriculum, system test results, or other related materials.

4.9.n. Identification and certification. Each lift shall be permanently and legibly marked or shall incorporate a non-removable label or tag that states it conforms to all applicable requirements of the current National School Transportation Specifications and Procedures. In addition, the lift manufacturer or an authorized representative shall provide a notarized Certificate of Conformance, either original or photocopied, which states that the lift system meets all the applicable requirements of the current National School Transportation Specifications and Procedures.

4.10. Restraining Devices, Passenger Seats.

4.10.a. Seat frames shall be equipped with attachments or devices to which belts, restraining harnesses, or other devices may be attached.

4.10.b. Attachment framework or anchorage devices, if installed, shall conform with FMVSS 210.

4.11. Seating Arrangements.

4.11.a. Flexibility in seat size and spacing to accommodate special devices shall be permitted due to the constant changing of passenger requirements. All seating shall be forward facing.

4.11.b. A decal shall be installed on the inside of the bus that gives proper seat spacing specifications.

4.12. Special Service Entrance.

4.12.a. The opening, with doors open, shall be of sufficient width to allow the passage of wheelchairs. The minimum clear opening shall be 43 inches in width, and 57 inches in height. Entrance shall be of sufficient width and depth to accommodate various mechanical lifts and related accessories as well as the lifting platform.

4.12.b. A drip molding shall be installed above the opening to effectively divert water from entrance.

4.12.c. Door posts and headers for entrance shall be reinforced sufficiently to provide support and strength equivalent to the areas of the side of the bus not used for service doors.

4.13. Special Service Entrance Doors.

4.13a. All doors shall open outwardly.

4.13.b. Lift doors shall have devices to hold doors in the open position.

4.13.c. All doors shall be weather sealed. On buses with double doors, the doors shall be so constructed that a flange on the forward door overlaps the edge of the rear door when closed.

4.13.d. Door materials, panels, and structural strength shall be equivalent to the conventional service and emergency doors. Color, rub rail extensions, lettering, and other exterior features shall match adjacent sections of the body.

4.13.e. Lift door shall have a window within one inch of the lower line of the adjacent sash.

4.13.f. Door(s) shall be equipped with a device that will actuate a flashing visible signal located in the operator's compartment when a door(s) is not securely latched or open in any position other than locked and ignition is in "ON" position.

4.13.g. A switch shall be installed so that the lifting mechanism will not operate when the lift platform door(s) is closed.

4.13.h. When the frame mounted power lift is used, door panels shall extend to bottom of body skirt.

5. Specifications for Multi-Functional School Activity Bus (MFSAB).

The vehicle must comply with the Definition of a Multifunction School Activity Bus (MFSAB) in the FMVSS as listed in 49 CFR Part 571, which is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Final Rule on this vehicle. The primary purpose of this vehicle is to transport children, and as such, it must comply with all applicable FMVSS, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), and other standards for this type of vehicle including the West Virginia Minimum School Bus Specifications. It must be purchased or leased as a new bus and may only be used for extra-curricular activities. These buses may not be used to transport students to and from schools or between schools for the purpose of attendance. In addition, the vehicle must have been inspected and received a satisfactory evaluation from the WVDE. Vehicles shall be of the latest model year in standard production and have parts that are stocked and warranty service that is available at one or more points in West Virginia or border states.

The MFSAB is designed to provide all of the crash safety standards that can be found on a traditional school bus, but without the "flashers and signs" that traditional school buses need for frequent pick-up and drop-off at school bus stops. The vehicle will not have the specialized warning devices such as stop signs and warning lights, and it will not be school bus yellow.

The following exception to the West Virginia Minimum Specifications for School Buses shall be allowed for these vehicles:

COLOR: The local school with school system approval may determine the color of the activity bus. The color scheme may utilize any combination of up to three colors. This combination may be in addition to an optional white roof. The color National School Bus Yellow (SBMTC-008 Publication) shall not be used as a part of the color scheme. School systems and/or vendors shall submit preliminary color schemes to the WVDE, Office of School Facilities and Transportation for approval prior to the purchase or manufacture of an MFSAB.

5.1. Identification.

5.1.a. The bus body shall bear the words "ACTIVITY BUS" in a contrasting color at least eightinches in heigh in the area where "school bus" is normally positioned. Lettering and numbering shall conform to FMVSS and West Virginia Minimum Specifications and shall meet reflectivity standards. Bus numbering on this bus may be of a contrasting color.

5.1.b. The name of the school system shall be displayed in at least sixinch letters on both sides of the bus in the beltline area. No signs or logos shall be applied to any area of the bus including the bumpers. The name of the school may be displayed in the beltline area. No signs, logos, or other items shall be displayed on the windows of the bus.

5.2. Lighting and Warning Devices.

5.2.a. All activity buses shall meet state and federal standards for normal school bus lighting and warning device requirements with the following exceptions.

5.2.a.1. MFSABs may not be equipped with alternately flashing amber or red signal lamps used for loading and unloading students.

5.2.a.2. MFSABs may not be equipped with stop arm signals or crossing control arms.

5.3. Seat Belts.

5.3.a. Three-point lap-shoulder belts will be supplied for any MFSAB with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds and under.

5.3.b. Shoulder belts supplied must be fully retractable and the anchorage must meet FMVSS-210.

5.4. Seating.

5.4.a. All MFSAB buses shall have seats that comply with FMVSS-222.

5.4.b. If the GVWR is 10,000 pounds and under, then it must also be equipped with three-point lap-shoulder belts certified to meet appropriate FMVSS standards.

5.4.c. School systems and/or vendors shall submit preliminary seating schemes to theWVDE, Office of School Facilities and Transportation for approval prior to the purchase or manufacture of a MFSAB.

5.4.c.1. Successful vendor shall coordinate with the agency issuing the purchase order in the selection of material and color and type of seats.

6. School Bus Type Definitions.

6.1. TYPE A.A conversion or bus constructed utilizing a cutaway front-section vehicle with a left side driver's door. This shall include two classifications: Type A-I, with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) 14,500 pounds or less; and Type A-II, with a GVWR of greater than 14,500 and less than or equal to 21,500 pounds.

6.2. TYPE C. Constructed utilizing a chassis with a hood and front fender assembly. The entrance door is behind the front wheels; it is also known as a conventional school bus. This type also includes a cutaway truck chassis or truck chassis/cab with or without a left side-door and a GVWR greater than 21,500 pounds.

6.3. TYPE D.Constructed utilizing a stripped chassis. The entrance door is ahead of the front wheels; it is also known as transit-style school bus or forward control bus.

6.4. SPECIALLY EQUIPPED.Designed, equipped, or modified to accommodate students with special needs.

7. Specifications for Compressed National Gas (CNG) Buses; CNG - Fuel Conversion.

7.1. Conversion and Maintenance.

7.1.a. Conversion and maintenance is to be performed only under the supervision of an individual who has satisfactorily completed a training program provided by a CNG original equipment manufacturer.

7.1.b. A training program shall involve the mechanics of installation, maintenance, repair, trouble shooting, and safety procedures.

7.2. CNG Vessels on School Bus.

7.2.a. Each CNG fuel supply vessel shall be constructed and inspected in accordance with the latest version of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 52 standards.

7.2.b. Installation of CNG containers shall comply with FMVSS No. 304, Compressed Natural Gas Fuel Container Integrity.

7.2.c. The CNG Fuel System shall comply with FMVSS No. 303, Fuel System Integrity of Compressed Natural Gas Vehicles.

7.3. Mounting Vessels to School Bus.

7.3.a. All safety devices that may discharge shall be vented to the outside of the vehicle.

7.4. Fuel Lines.

7.4.a. Fuel lines shall be permanently secured at intervals of not more than two feet with aviation type clamps, and shall be placed in such a manner as to minimize the possibility of damage due to vibrations, strains, or wear.

7.4.b. Any fuel line passing through, under, or over a structural member shall be protected by rubber grommets or tubing. Loops in the fuel lines shall be provided at appropriate stress points.

7.4.c. An automatic natural gas shut-off valve or solenoid shall be provided as an integral part of the regulator package assembly.

7.4.d. A manual shut-off valve shall be installed between the vessels and the regulator.

7.4.d.1. This shut-off valve shall be readily accessible to the operator, be protected from rocks and other forms of debris, and be on the curb-side of the bus where possible.

7.4.d.2. Such shut-off valve shall be clearly marked with reflective material.

7.4.d.3. If access is gained by cutting a hole in the side of the bus, suitable protective material shall be placed around the edge of the hole.

7.4.d.4. Wherever possible, the manual shut-off valve should be located as close as possible to the CNG vessels.

7.5. Vehicle Refueling Connection.

7.5.a. The fueling systems shall be equipped with a backflow check-valve that will prevent the return flow of gas from vessel(s) to the filling connection.

7.5.b. All school buses shall be fitted with a refueling interlock system to prevent the bus from being moved on its own power during a refueling operation.

7.5.c. The fueling connection shall meet the standards of NFPA 52.

7.5.d. The filler hose vent valve on the refueling probe shall be directed away from the operator.

7.6. Labeling Required.

7.6.a. CNG vessel area labels showing CNG vessel I.D., hydrostatic test data, and CNG vessel master manual shut-off valve location are required.

7.6.b. Engine compartment labels to include CNG warning and instructions to mechanics including the following:

7.6.b.1. CNG fueled vehicle.

7.6.b.2. system service pressure.

7.6.b.3. installer's name or company.

7.6.b.4. vessel retest date(s) or expiration.

7.6.b.5. total vessel water volume in gallons (liters).

7.7. CNG Equipment.

7.7.a. Manufacturers wishing to deal in CNG equipment in West Virginia must meet all applicable federal and state requirements.

7.8. Limit of Flammability.

7.8.a. Natural gas introduced into any system covered by this standard shall have a distinctive odor potent enough for its presence to be detected down to a concentration in air of not over 1/5 of the lower limit of flammability.

8. Specifications for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Buses.

8.1. LPG Vessels on School Buses.

8.1.a. The fuel system shall comply with the latest version of NFPA 58 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code. The fuel system integrity shall meet the specified leakage performance standards when impacted by a moving contoured barrier in accordance with test conditions specified in FMVSS 301 and Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS)301.1 Fuel System Integrity for Liquefied Petroleum Gas.

8.1.b. Propane valves shall be protected by guards or expanded steel grating.

8.1.c. Steel vessels must have protective paint coating.

8.1.d. A manual shut-off valve for maintenance shall be installed.

8.1.d.1. This valve shall be accessible to the operator, be protected from rocks and other forms of debris, and be located on the curb-side of the bus where possible.

8.1.d.2. The valve location shall be clearly marked on the side of the bus.

8.1.d.3. Wherever possible, the valve should be located as close as possible to the LPG vessels.

8.2. Fuel Lines.

8.2.a. Fuel lines shall be permanently secured at intervals of not more than two feet.

8.2.b. Fuel lines shall be placed in such a manner as to minimize the possibility of damage due to vibrations, strains, or wear.

8.2.c. A fuel line passing through, under, or over a structural member shall be protected by grommets or tubing.

8.3. Fuel System Filtration.

8.3.a. Fuel filter shall be a high-capacity, high-flow LPG specific filter which is rated at five microns.

8.4. Venting.

8.4.a. All safety devices that discharge to the atmosphere shall be vented to the outside of the vehicle.

8.4.b. The discharge line from the safety relief valve on all school buses shall be located at the rear of the vehicle on the driver's side with the relief nozzle pointing to the ground.

8.4.c. Discharge lines shall not pass through the passenger compartment.

8.5. Vehicle Refueling Connection.

8.5.a. The vehicle shall be equipped with a receptacle with Aerospace Civil and Mechanical Engineering (ACME) thread and dust cap.

8.5.b. The fueling systems shall be equipped with a backflow check-valve that will prevent the return flow of propane fuel.

8.5.c. The fueling connection shall meet the standards of the latest version of NFPA 58.

8.6. Labeling Required.

8.6.a. Propane vessel shall be labeled per American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) requirements.

8.6.b. Engine compartment labels are to include LPG warning and instructions to mechanics including the following:

8.6.b.1. system service pressure.

8.6.b.2. installer's name or company.

8.7. LPG Equipment.

8.7.a. Manufacturers wishing to deal in LPG equipment in West Virginia must meet all applicable federal and state requirements.

8.8. Engine.

8.8.a. Engine retarder is not required.

8.8.b. An idle limiter is not required.

8.5.c. Warranty for the engine shall be a minimum five years/100,000 miles.

8.9. Transmission.

8.9.a. Allison 2300 series is acceptable.

8.9.b. Ford 6R140 is acceptable.

8.9.c. Retarder is not required.

8.9.d. Synthetic fluid is not required.

8.9.d. Warranty shall be a minimum of five years/100,000 miles.

8.10. Differential.

8.10.a. A limited slip differential is acceptable.

8.11. Air Compressor.

8.11.a. The air compressor shall be rated at a minimum of 13.2 CFM.

8.12. Block Heater.

8.12.a. A block heater is not required.

8.13. Exhaust System.

8.13.a. The exhaust system shall meet the manufacturer's specification but shall be flush with the body and not exceed one inch outside the bus body.

Disclaimer: These regulations may not be the most recent version. West Virginia 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.

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