NYC Transit Bus Operator key terms

A braking system that uses compressed air rather than hydraulic fluid to slow and stop the vehicle. Bus operators must monitor air pressure gauges and know the low-pressure warning signs.

A check of the bus's braking response performed before driving, confirming the pedal or air system stops the vehicle without pulling, delay, or unusual noise.

The required walk-around and in-cab check of a bus before service, covering tires, lights, brakes, mirrors, emergency equipment, and fluid levels to confirm the vehicle is safe to operate.

The end-of-service check for lost items, damage, fluid leaks, and equipment problems, recorded so mechanics and the next operator know the bus's condition.

A written tag or form reporting a mechanical problem found on a bus, which alerts maintenance and documents that the operator identified the issue.

The status of a bus that is unsafe or unfit to carry passengers. An operator must not accept or continue operating such a vehicle until it is repaired and cleared.

Driving a bus without passengers, such as traveling from the depot to the start of a route or returning after the last trip. Deadhead time still counts as work time.

The scheduled departure of a bus from the depot to begin its assigned work, including the time needed to inspect the vehicle and reach the first stop.

The return of a bus to the depot at the end of its assignment, including any final passenger drop-off and the post-trip inspection before handing the vehicle over.

A single operator's assigned piece of work for the day, defined by start time, route or routes, and finish time. Runs are usually picked by seniority.

The periodic process in which operators choose their work assignments, such as runs and days off, usually in order of seniority according to the labor agreement.

An operator's length of service with the agency, which determines priority in choosing runs, schedules, vacations, and sometimes shift assignments under the union contract.

The time gap between buses on a route, for example every eight minutes. Operators use headway to stay evenly spaced and avoid bunching with the bus ahead.

When two or more buses on the same route arrive together because of delays, leaving long gaps behind them. Operators may be directed to adjust spacing to restore even service.

Operating the bus so it arrives at timepoints close to the published schedule, neither early nor late, while still serving passengers safely and predictably.

A location on a route where the schedule specifies an exact arrival or departure time. Operators check their running time against timepoints to stay on schedule.

Scheduled recovery time at the end of a trip before the next departure, allowing the operator to rest, use facilities, and make up minor delays without affecting passengers.

The secure device where passengers deposit fares and passes. Operators observe fare payment, handle fare disputes politely, and never reach into the box or count money while driving.

A ticket or pass allowing a passenger to continue on another bus or route within a set time for little or no extra fare, subject to agency rules.

A system in which passengers pay before boarding and carry a receipt or pass that inspectors may check, so operators do not collect fares at the door.

Lowering the bus body at a stop so the front step is closer to the curb, making boarding easier for passengers with limited mobility, strollers, or shopping carts.

The process of positioning a mobility device in the designated area and fastening the bus's tie-down straps and lap belt so the passenger rides safely.

Seats near the front reserved for seniors and passengers with disabilities. Operators ensure these seats are yielded and that wheelchair spaces stay clear.

The spoken or displayed notice of the next stop and transfer points, required so passengers with visual impairments can travel independently. Operators must keep the system working.

The time a bus spends stopped at a stop while passengers board and alight. Operators balance complete, safe boarding against schedule pressure.

Setting flat and convex mirrors so the operator can see both sides of the bus, the rear door area, and blind spots before moving from a stop or changing lanes.

An area around the bus that mirrors do not show, especially directly in front, alongside the rear wheels, and behind the vehicle. Operators must check physically or with cameras.

The risk that a bus turning right will strike a pedestrian or cyclist passing on its right side. Operators check mirrors and blind spots and turn slowly and widely.

The space kept behind the vehicle ahead, often measured in seconds. A larger gap is needed in rain, snow, darkness, or when the bus is heavy with passengers.

The total distance a bus travels from the moment a hazard appears until it stops, combining reaction distance and braking distance. Heavy buses need far more room than cars.

A driving approach that anticipates other people's mistakes, scans far ahead, and leaves escape routes, so the operator can avoid a crash regardless of who is at fault.

A five-step defensive driving method: aim high in steering, get the big picture, keep eyes moving, leave an out, and make sure others see you.

The required steps at grade crossings, such as stopping, looking and listening, opening a window or door to hear trains, and crossing only when clear.

Any condition that could cause a crash or injury, such as a pedestrian stepping off a curb, a double-parked truck, ice, or a low bridge. Operators identify and respond early.

A written record completed after a crash, injury, or unusual event, capturing time, location, witnesses, and what happened while details are fresh and accurate.

The orderly removal of passengers from a bus during fire, crash, or other danger, using doors, windows, or roof hatches and guiding riders to a safe place.

Portable equipment carried on the bus for small fires. Operators must know its location, inspect it during pre-trip checks, and use it only if safely trained to do so.

The standard way to communicate with dispatch by two-way radio, using clear, brief language, identifying the bus, and waiting for acknowledgment before acting on instructions.

The control center that tracks buses, gives instructions, sends help, and adjusts service during delays or emergencies. Operators follow lawful directions and report problems promptly.

How an operator treats riders: greeting politely, answering questions, announcing stops, and handling conflicts calmly. Good service reduces complaints and keeps passengers loyal.

Techniques for calming an angry or disruptive passenger, such as speaking quietly, listening, keeping distance, and calling for help instead of arguing or physically intervening.