BC Class 2 Bus key terms

A systematic walk-around and in-cab check performed before each trip that verifies lights, tires, brakes, fluids, emergency equipment, and passenger-safety items are present, secure, and working. Defects are corrected or reported before the bus moves.

The reservoir pressures at which the compressor governor restarts and stops compressor output, roughly 85 psi to 105 psi. Watching both points during the pre-trip build-up test confirms the compressor cycles normally and does not over-pressurize the system.

An audible and visual alert in the cab that must activate before reservoir pressure falls below 60 psi, warning the driver to stop safely before the spring parking brakes apply automatically and the bus loses normal braking.

A brake chamber that is applied by a heavy spring and released by air pressure. It sets automatically when air pressure drops too low and serves as the parking brake when the driver pulls the dash control.

A pre-trip test in which the driver charges the system, shuts off the engine, and observes the gauge over a set period. Pressure loss beyond the allowed limit means a leak must be repaired before the bus is used.

The lever that turns air chamber pushrod motion into brake shoe movement. Pushrod travel longer than the manufacturer's adjustment limit shows the brakes are out of adjustment, and the bus must be taken out of service until fixed.

A unit that removes moisture and oil from compressed air before it reaches the reservoirs, preventing corrosion and winter freeze-up. Its cartridge and purge valve need servicing on the manufacturer's schedule.

Inspection of every tire for cuts, bulges, exposed cord, and embedded objects, plus tread depth checks. National Safety Code minimums are 3.2 mm on steering axle tires and 1.6 mm on other tires.

Part of the walk-around that looks for loose tie rod ends, cracked springs, leaking airbags or shocks, and excessive steering wheel play. Any steering or suspension defect makes the bus unsafe to drive.

The protective distance kept around the bus on all sides so the driver has time to react. Heavy vehicles need longer following gaps, often four seconds or more, plus room to the sides and ahead.

Areas around a bus that mirror adjustments cannot fully cover, including directly in front, behind, and along both sides. Drivers must scan mirrors continuously and avoid travelling inside another vehicle's blind spot.

The way the rear wheels of a long vehicle cut a tighter path than the front wheels in a turn. Drivers must swing wide and watch the rear in the mirrors to avoid hitting curbs, poles, or pedestrians.

A crash where a vehicle slips into the space on a bus's right as the bus turns right, leaving the driver no room. Preventing it means turning from the correct lane and checking the right mirror before and during the turn.

Choosing a low enough gear before a long descent so engine braking holds speed and service brakes are used only briefly. Continuous braking can overheat and fade, leaving the bus without stopping power.

BC rules that forbid holding or using a hand-held phone or other electronic device, and any other activity that takes a driver's attention from the road while the vehicle is in motion.

Total distance from spotting a hazard to a complete stop, combining perception, reaction, and braking distance. A loaded bus on wet or icy pavement may need several times the distance of a passenger car.

Slowing down, opening the window, and looking and listening both ways before crossing tracks. A bus carrying passengers must stop at a crossing unless gates or a signal clearly show it is safe.

A short announcement before departure covering seat belt use, emergency exit locations, fire extinguisher use, and rules for moving around the bus. It helps passengers act correctly in an emergency.

A passenger who rides standing while the bus is moving. Standing is allowed only where the bus is designed and licensed for it, and never in areas that block the aisle, exits, or the driver's view.

Locking a wheelchair or scooter to the bus with a four-point tie-down and fastening a lap and shoulder belt around the occupant. The driver checks that everything is tight before the bus moves.

A powered or manual device that moves a passenger from ground level to the bus floor. The driver must be trained on it, ensure the interlock prevents vehicle movement while it is deployed, and watch the passenger throughout.

Stowing luggage, parcels, and equipment so they cannot shift, block aisles or exits, or injure passengers during braking or a collision. Aisles and emergency exit paths stay clear at all times.

A portable extinguisher rated for Class A, B, and C fires, kept charged, mounted securely, and within reach of the driver. The gauge, pin, and seal are checked during the pre-trip inspection.

The stop arm and alternating flashing red lights a school bus uses to halt traffic while students board or exit. The driver deploys them as regulations require and waits until students are safely clear.

A marked door, window, roof hatch, or other opening on a bus that lets occupants leave without tools. Drivers confirm during the pre-trip inspection that each exit opens freely and is not blocked.

Moving passengers off a bus after a fire, collision, or other hazard: stopping safely, shutting down the engine, setting the parking brake, directing people to usable exits, and gathering them well away from traffic.

Reflective triangles or cones carried on the bus and placed behind a stopped vehicle to warn approaching traffic. Placement distance depends on the road type and speed limit, and they are retrieved before leaving.

The legal duty after a crash to stop, give assistance, exchange names and insurance details, and report to police when there is injury, death, or damage above the set amount. ICBC must also be told.

An internal form completed after a collision, near miss, injury, or passenger incident, recording time, location, weather, witnesses, and actions taken. It supports insurance claims, regulatory reporting, and safety follow-up.

A count of passengers taken at boarding, at unloading, and after an evacuation so no one is left on the bus. It is essential on school and charter trips and at the end of every run.

A notation added to a BC licence after the driver passes a written and practical air brake examination. It allows operation of air-brake equipped vehicles, which carry their own inspection and adjustment requirements.

A unique identifier given to a BC motor carrier that operates regulated commercial vehicles or buses. It links the carrier to its safety records, inspections, and rating, and must be carried or displayed as required.

A provincial score for a motor carrier based on collisions, roadside inspections, violations, and fleet size. A low rating can lead to audits, mandatory action plans, or loss of operating authority.

Limits on daily driving and on-duty time, with required rest periods, recorded in a logbook or electronic logging device. Drivers must carry the record and produce it on request.

A periodic medical examination confirming the driver meets national vision, hearing, cardiovascular, and neurological standards for a Class 2 licence. If the certificate lapses, the driver cannot legally operate a bus.

A written record the driver completes at the end of the day listing any defects found and confirming the bus's condition. The carrier keeps it and a mechanic reviews defects before the next trip.

Records a carrier keeps for each driver, including licence and abstract checks, medical certificates, training, and employment history. An incomplete file can trigger penalties during a provincial or NSC audit.

A government printout of a driver's convictions, suspensions, and prohibitions. Carriers review it before hiring and at least once a year, because too many points can suspend a Class 2 licence.