SUBCHAPTER 30. INSPECTION OF SCHOOL BUSES
13:20-30.1 Scope
(a) This subchapter shall apply to all school buses registered in this State, except buses that are also used for the transportation of passengers for hire and that are subject to inspection by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit.
(b) Children shall not be transported in a school bus unless the school bus has been subjected to an in-terminal inspection by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit pursuant to N.J.A.C. 13:20-30.15 and has been determined to be in compliance with all applicable inspection standards set forth for school buses in N.J.A.C. 13:20-49 through 53C.
(c) A school bus inspection certificate of approval that has been issued to a school bus shall be deemed void upon the transfer of ownership of the school bus, and such school bus shall not be used for the transportation of children unless the school bus has been subjected to an in-terminal inspection by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit pursuant to N.J.A.C. 13:20-30.15 and has been determined to be in compliance with all applicable inspection standards set forth for school buses in N.J.A.C. 13:20-49 through 53C. However, the Motor Vehicle Commission may perform an in-terminal cursory inspection provided there is a valid New Jersey inspection sticker on the bus. A replacement sticker will be issued to correspond with the new owner's inspection cycle if there are no obvious defects found. If obvious defects are found, the Motor Vehicle Commission shall perform a full inspection of the school bus.
(d) (No change.)
13:20-30.2 Definitions
The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter and in N.J.A.C. 13:20-31, shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
"Accident" means:
1. A collision involving a school bus or vehicle that results in personal injury or death, or causes disabling damage to one or more motor vehicles requiring the vehicle(s) to be transported away by a tow truck or other vehicle;
2. A collision between a motor vehicle and a student at any time during the loading or unloading process of a school bus or school vehicle; or
3. An injury to a student inside a school bus or vehicle that results from negligent or unsafe acceleration, deceleration or other movement of a school bus.
. . .
"Driver" means the authorized licensed driver of a school bus or vehicle.
"FMVSS" means the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards as found in the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR Part 571). Copies of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards as found in the Code of Federal Regulations may be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents, United States Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, (202) 783-3238 and found on the Internet at http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/rules/import/FMVSS.
. . .
"Operator" means the owner or person responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of a school bus or vehicle.
"Passenger" means any person other than the driver riding in a school bus or vehicle.
. . .
"School bus" or "bus" means every motor vehicle operated by, or under contract with, a public or governmental agency, or religious or other charitable organization or corporation, or privately operated for the transportation of children to or from school for secular or religious education, school-connected activity, day camp, summer day camp, nursery school, child-care center, preschool center or other similar places of education and shall be classified in the following manner:
1.-5. (No change.)
13:20-30.3 Inspection and maintenance
(a)-(c) (No change.)
(d) The inspection and maintenance records shall include the following:
1. An identification of the school bus including the New Jersey registration plate number, make, model, model year, vehicle identification number, and tire size;
2.-6. (No change.)
(e) The inspection and maintenance records shall be maintained by the operator for the life of the school bus; provided, however, that the daily school bus condition reports by the driver shall be maintained by the operator for a period of one year. Records may be kept by electronic means. The inspection and maintenance records shall be available for inspection by the Commission, the New Jersey State Police or the Office of Student Transportation in the Department of Education.
13:20-30.5 Inspection of school buses in operation
(a)-(c) (No change.)
(d) Any school bus that has been declared and marked "out-of-service" shall not transport passengers but may be driven to obtain reinspection, as long as repairs are made to comply with State and Federal rules and regulations. Transportation of passengers shall not occur until the bus has been reinspected and approved by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit. The vehicles marked "out-of-service" may be towed by means of a vehicle using a crane or hoist provided that the vehicle combination consisting of the emergency towing vehicle and the "out-of-service" vehicle meets the performance requirements of N.J.S.A. 39:3-68.
(e) (No change.)
(f) The person or persons completing the repairs required by the "out-of-service" notice, or a designee, shall certify to the Chief Administrator on a form prescribed by the Chief Administrator the date and the time the required repairs were completed. The "School Bus Out of Service Repair Certification" form is located at N.J.A.C. 13:20-30 Appendix A, incorporated herein by reference, and can be found on the Motor Vehicle Commission website at http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/Inspections/SchoolBus.htm.
(g)-(i) (No change.)
13:20-30.7 Daily school bus condition report by driver
(a) Every operator shall require his or her drivers to report, and every driver shall prepare such a report in writing or electronically at the beginning of his or her workday or tour of duty, which report shall list any defects or deficiencies of the school bus discovered by said driver as would be likely to affect the safe operation of the school bus or result in its mechanical breakdown, or shall indicate that no such defects or deficiencies were discovered by him or her. The "Driver Daily Report" form to be used for submitting the driver daily report is located at N.J.A.C. 13:20-30 Appendix B, incorporated herein by reference and can be found on the Motor Vehicle Commission's website at http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/Inspections/SchoolBus.htm.
(b) The daily school bus condition report shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
1. The driver's name, printed and signed by the driver, date, time report was prepared and time the report was submitted to the owner, school bus registration plate number, school bus number assigned by the operator, and mileage;
2.-17. (No change.)
18. Seats, including seat belts, seat mounting, and the condition thereof;
19. Special transportation equipment for special needs passengers; and
20. School bus warning equipment.
(c) (No change.)
13:20-30.8 Required practices
(a) Specific equipment shall be inspected and maintained at least once every three months or as set forth in the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, whichever occurs first; the "Quarterly Maintenance Inspection" form, on which to report the results of the required inspection is located at N.J.A.C. 13:20-30 Appendix C, incorporated herein by reference and can be found on the Motor Vehicle Commission website at http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/Inspections/SchoolBus.htm. The specific equipment to be inspected and maintained is as follows:
1.-17. (No change.)
13:20-30.9 Standards
All equipment subject to inspection shall meet the standards, for the applicable model year, now or hereafter prescribed by Federal law or rule, New Jersey statute, or Motor Vehicle Commission rule. A vendor who sells or leases a school bus for the transportation of children shall issue a "Vendor Certification Statement" to the buyer or lessee, signed by an authorized agent or officer of the company, certifying that the school bus meets all Federal and State standards. The "Vendor Certification Statement" shall identify the school bus by make, model, year and vehicle identification number. The vendor shall also file a copy of the "Vendor Certification Statement" with the Commission's Bus Inspection Unit at the time of inspection. It is the sole responsibility of the buyer or lessee to insure that the school bus meets all Federal and State standards.
13:20-30.13 Compliance with gasoline emission and OBD inspection standards, equipment requirements and test procedures; periodic inspection
(a) (No change.)
(b) Gasoline-powered school buses registered in New Jersey shall be subject to an annual emission or OBD inspection, whichever is applicable, by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit in accordance with N.J.A.C. 13:20-30.5(a) at the premises or places of business of the operator of such vehicles to determine compliance with (a) above.
13:20-30.14 Driver qualification; criminal history record information; driver qualification employment records
(a) (No change.)
(b) A school bus driver shall submit to a criminal history record check at the time of his or her initial application and any renewal application for a Commercial Driver License with School Bus Endorsement authorizing the driver to operate a school bus by providing to the Department of Education his or her name, address, and fingerprints taken on standard fingerprint cards or electronically by a law enforcement agency as designated by the Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police.
(c) (No change.)
(d) Notwithstanding (c) above, a school bus driver who provides services only to a nonpublic school and who is not required to undergo a criminal history record check through the Department of Education pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:6-4.13 shall submit to a criminal history record check in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:3-10.1 at the time of his or her initial application and any renewal application for a Commercial Driver License with School Bus Endorsement authorizing the driver to operate a school bus by providing to the Motor Vehicle Commission his or her name, address, and fingerprints taken on standard fingerprint cards or electronically by a law enforcement agency as designated by the Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police.
(e)-(f) (No change.)
13:20-30.15 In-terminal inspection of school buses
An operator shall present each school bus for a semiannual in-terminal inspection by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit.
13:20-30.17 Schedule of fines
(a) The following fines shall be assessed against an operator, and with the exception of (a)1 below, to the driver, in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:3B-22 per violation for the vehicle inspection violations set forth below:
1. (No change.)
2. Failure to prepare, remit and retain proper records $250.00
3.-5. (No change.)
SUBCHAPTER 31. SCHOOL BUS ENHANCED SAFETY INSPECTION OUT-OF-SERVICE CRITERIA
13:20-31.1 Scope
(a) (No change.)
(b) The rules set forth in this subchapter are consistent with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the National School Transportation Specifications and Procedures, 2010 Revised Edition, which are incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented, have been issued by the 2010 National Conference on School Transportation and may be obtained at http://www.ncstonline.org.
13:20-31.9 Power steering belt
(a) The following is the out-of-service criteria pertaining to a power steering system:
1. Any components of the power steering system are not in operating condition; any part is loose or broken; belts are frayed, cracked or slipping; the system leaks; or there is insufficient fluid in the power steering system reservoir.
13:20-31.35 Transportation of passengers prohibited
The school bus shall not transport passengers until all out-of-service violations are remedied and such remedial action is either certified or approved by representatives of the Motor Vehicle Commission.
SUBCHAPTER 49. STANDARDS FOR SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED JULY 1985 THROUGH MAY 1993
13:20-49.1 Scope and purpose; school bus standards; incorporation by reference
(a) This subchapter shall be applicable to all motor vehicles registered in New Jersey originally designed by the manufacturer to carry 10 or more passengers, excluding the driver, operated by, or under contract with, a public or governmental agency, or religious or other charitable organization or corporation, or privately operated for the transportation of children to or from school for secular or religious education, school-connected activity, day camp, summer day camp, nursery school, child care center, preschool center or other similar places of education. All such motor vehicles shall be registered as school buses in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:3-19.2 and shall comply with the rules set forth in this subchapter and all applicable Federal standards. A motor vehicle shall not be used for the purposes set forth in this subsection unless it has been registered as a school bus in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:3-19.2 and complies with the rules set forth in this subchapter and all applicable Federal standards.
(b) (No change.)
(c) Each school bus shall be inspected twice each year by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit to ensure that such vehicle is in safe and proper operating condition. The time and location of the inspections shall be established by the Chief Administrator or his or her designee.
(d) An autobus subject to inspection by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit that is used for the transportation of children to or from school shall display a certificate of inspection issued by the Commission indicating school use. An autobus is exempt from displaying a certificate for school use issued by the Motor Vehicle Commission when being used on a preset franchised route and schedule or chartered for school-connected activities.
(e)-(f) (No change.)
13:20-49.3 Bus body standards supplement to the 1985 National Minimum Standards
(a)-(h) (No change.)
(i) No advertisement of any kind shall be exhibited on the interior of the school bus, with the exception that the manufacturer's and vendor's trade name(s) shall be permitted to be exhibited on the bus.
(j)-(aa) (No change.)
SUBCHAPTER 49A. STANDARDS FOR BUSES USED FOR PUPIL TRANSPORTATION MANUFACTURED JUNE 1993 THROUGH DECEMBER 2005
13:20-49A.1 Scope and purpose
(a) This subchapter shall be applicable to all motor vehicles registered in New Jersey originally designed by the manufacturer to carry 10 or more passengers, excluding the driver, operated by, or under contract with, a public or governmental agency, or religious or other charitable organization or corporation, or privately operated for the transportation of children to or from school for secular or religious education, school-connected activity, day camp, summer day camp, nursery school, child care center, preschool center or other similar places of education. All such motor vehicles shall be registered as school buses in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:3-19.2 and shall comply with the rules set forth in this subchapter and in N.J.A.C. 13:20-49B, 49C and 49D, and all applicable Federal standards. A motor vehicle shall not be used for the purposes set forth in this subsection unless it has been registered as a school bus in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:3-19.2 and complies with the rules set forth in this subchapter and in N.J.A.C. 13:20-49B, 49C and 49D, and all applicable Federal standards.
(b) Each school bus shall be inspected twice each year by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit to ensure that such vehicle is in safe and proper operating condition. The time and location of the inspections shall be established by the Chief Administrator or his or her designee.
(c) The rules set forth in this subchapter and in N.J.A.C. 13:20-49B, 49C and 49D shall not apply to autobuses approved for school use and subject to inspection by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit unless otherwise provided.
(d) An autobus subject to inspection by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit that is used for the transportation of children to or from school shall display a certificate of inspection issued by the Commission indicating school use. An autobus is exempt from displaying a certificate for school use issued by the Motor Vehicle Commission when being used on a preset franchised route and schedule or chartered for school-connected activities.
(e)-(g) (No change.)
13:20-49A.2 Words and phrases defined
The following words and phrases, when used in N.J.A.C. 13:20-49A through 49D, shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Any reference to direction is relative to the driver in a seated position.
"Accident" means:
1. A collision involving a school bus or vehicle that results in personal injury or death, or causes disabling damage to one or more motor vehicles such that the vehicle(s) are required to be transported away by a tow truck or other vehicle;
2. A collision between a motor vehicle and a student at any time during the loading or unloading process of a school bus or school vehicle; or
3. An injury to a student inside a school bus or vehicle that results from negligent or unsafe acceleration, deceleration or other movement of a school bus.
. . .
"Driver" means the authorized licensed driver of the school bus or vehicle.
. . .
"Operator" means the owner or person responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of a school bus or vehicle.
. . .
"School bus warning lamps" are eight alternately flashing red and amber lamps mounted horizontally both front and rear, intended to identify a vehicle as a school bus and to inform other users of the highway that the vehicle is stopped or about to stop.
. . .
13:20-49A.3 Certification
(a) The chassis and/or body manufacturer and any manufacturer of school bus equipment required by this subchapter shall, upon request, provide evidence and/or certify, in writing, to the Motor Vehicle Commission and the user that their product meets the minimum standards of this subchapter and all applicable FMVSS.
(b) Any person who alters, converts, or modifies a certified "completed vehicle" used to transport students shall certify, in writing, to the Motor Vehicle Commission and the user that all modifications conform to applicable design, construction, testing, and performance standards contained in this chapter.
(c) (No change.)
SUBCHAPTER 49B. CHASSIS STANDARDS FOR BUSES USED FOR PUPIL TRANSPORTATION MANUFACTURED JUNE 1993 THROUGH DECEMBER 2005
13:20-49B.6 Color
The chassis, including front bumper, shall be black. The cowl, fenders and hood shall be National School Bus Yellow. The hood may be painted non-reflective National School Bus Yellow. Wheels and rims shall be black, gray, white, or silver. The grille shall be chrome, silver, gray, black, or National School Bus Yellow.
13:20-49B.8 Electrical system
(a) Buses shall be equipped with a battery or batteries as specified by the manufacturer.
1. The storage battery shall have a minimum cold cranking capacity rating equal to the cranking current required for 30 seconds at 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-17.8 degrees Celsius) and a minimum reserve capacity rating of 120 minutes at 25 amps. Higher capacities are permissible depending upon optional equipment and local environmental conditions.
2. (No change.)
(b) (No change.)
(c) Wiring shall use a standard color and number coding and conform to current SAE standards.
1. (No change.)
2. The chassis manufacturer shall install a readily accessible terminal strip or plug on the body side of the cowl, or at an accessible location in the engine compartment of buses designed without a cowl, that shall contain the following terminals for the body connections:
i.-vi. (No change.)
vii. Instrument panel lights that are controlled by the headlamp switch or a separate dimmer switch.
SUBCHAPTER 49C. BODY STANDARDS FOR BUSES USED FOR PUPIL TRANSPORTATION MANUFACTURED JUNE 1993 THROUGH DECEMBER 2005
13:20-49C.2 Back-up warning alarm
An automatic audible alarm shall be installed behind the rear axle of the bus and shall comply with SAE standard J994 (2009), incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented, for rubber tired vehicles.
13:20-49C.5 Capacity
(a) The number of students assigned to a seat shall not exceed the gross seating length in inches divided by 15. The maximum number of students who may be transported in each vehicle shall be determined by this seat measurement. Application of the foregoing formula shall not result in the use of a school vehicle with a seating capacity in excess of 54.
(b) (No change.)
(c) This section shall not apply to a bus while being used as a common carrier on a preset franchised route and schedule or is chartered for school-related activities.
13:20-49C.13 Emergency equipment
(a) A bus may be equipped with a pry bar at least 24 inches in length. If so equipped, it shall be securely mounted in the bus in a location easily accessible to the driver.
(b)-(c) (No change.)
13:20-49C.15 First aid kit
(a) A removable first aid kit may be provided. It should be moisture and dust proof and be mounted in an accessible place within the driver's compartment. When the first aid kit is stored in a storage compartment, the location of the kit shall be identified by the words "First Aid" in red letters two inches high and 3/16 inch wide.
(b) The kit shall contain sufficient supplies for the capacity of the school bus. Suggested items include, but are not limited to:
1.-9. (No change.)
10. One pair medical examination gloves;
11. One pair rounded end scissors; and
12. One mouth-to-mouth airway.
13:20-49C.18 Identification
(a)-(b) (No change.)
(c) The standards in (a) and (b) above also apply to buses under the jurisdiction of the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit, approved for school use, contracted by a local board of education for transportation to and from school.
(d) (No change.)
(e) Only signs and lettering limited to the name of the owner or operator and any marking necessary for identification shall appear on the sides of the bus.
1. (No change.)
2. Identification letters or numbers, up to a maximum height of six inches, shall be in prominent locations on the front and rear of the bus below the window line. The color of the letters or numbers shall be white, black and/or National School Bus Yellow.
(f) No advertisement of any kind shall be exhibited either on the interior or exterior of the bus, except for the manufacturer's and vendor's trade names which may be exhibited on the bus.
13:20-49C.22 Lamps and signals
(a)-(b) (No change.)
(c) Body instrument panel lights shall be controlled by an independent switch or rheostat switch.
(d) (No change.)
(e) Alternately flashing signal lamps shall be provided as follows:
1.-3. (No change.)
4. All flashers and any operating components for alternately flashing red and amber signal lamps shall be in a readily accessible location.
5. Each school bus shall be equipped with indicator lights that monitor the proper operation and illumination of the front and rear alternately flashing signal warning lamps. The indicator lights shall be mounted in full view of the driver. If the full circuit current passes through the indicator lights, each circuit shall be protected by a fuse or circuit breaker.
6.-7. (No change.)
8. If strobe alternately flashing signal lamps are utilized, the front and rear signal lamps shall be equipped with eight seven-inch sealed-beam electronic strobe lamps, four red and four amber, working in an automatic integrated system. The exterior surface of lens shall be smooth and meet SAE color requirements.
i. (No change.)
(f) The requirements in (e) above also apply to buses under the jurisdiction of the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit, approved for school use, contracted by a local board of education for transportation to and from school.
(g)-(h) (No change.)
13:20-49C.32 Seats and crash barriers
(a)-(b) (No change.)
(c) The seat, seat back cushion, and restraining barrier shall be completely encapsulated and shall meet the performance criteria in the School Bus Seat Upholstery Fire Block Test set forth in Appendix B of the NSTSP, 2010 Revised Edition (May 2010), incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented.
1. (No change.)
(d) (No change.)
(e) Each seat leg shall be secured to the floor by a minimum of two bolts, washers, and nuts; flange-head nuts may be used in lieu of nuts and washers.
(f)-(g) (No change.)
13:20-49C.37 Stop signal arm
A stop signal arm that meets the applicable requirements of FMVSS No. 131 (49 CFR 571.131), incorporated herein by reference, shall be provided on the left side of the body. The stop signal arm shall be an octagonal shape with white letters and border on a red background. The flashing lamps in the stop signal arm shall be connected to the alternately red flashing signal lamp circuits. Vacuum, electric or air operation of the stop signal arm is optional.
13:20-49C.42 Undercoating
(a) The entire underside of the bus body, including floor sections, cross member, and below floor line side panels, may be coated with rustproofing compound for which the compound manufacturer has issued a notarized certification of compliance to the bus body builder that the compound meets or exceeds all performance and qualitative requirements of applicable Federal specifications.
(b) (No change.)
13:20-49C.44 Walking control arm
(a) A walking control arm shall be installed on buses. The construction and design of this equipment shall offer a safe and trouble free operation. The control unit shall be installed on the right side of the front bumper. Equipment shall not obstruct the view of any sign or license plate on the bus. The open crossing gate shall extend forward on the front bumper at least 60 inches up to a maximum of 96 inches.
1.-2. (No change.)
SUBCHAPTER 49D. SPECIALLY EQUIPPED SCHOOL BUS STANDARDS FOR BUSES USED FOR PUPIL TRANSPORTATION MANUFACTURED JUNE 1993 THROUGH DECEMBER 2005
13:20-49D.6 Identification
(a) A bus equipped with a power lift shall display at least one universal handicapped symbol on the back of the bus and below the windowline.
1. The symbol shall not exceed 12 inches by 12 inches in size, be white on a blue background, and be of a high intensity reflectorized material as specified in NSFSB.
SUBCHAPTER 49E. AUTOBUSES APPROVED FOR PUPIL TRANSPORTATION BY THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PRIOR TO MAY 21, 1993
13:20-49E.3 Certificate of inspection
(a) No autobus under the jurisdiction of the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit shall be used for school pupil transportation services, as defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:39-1 and under contract with a local board of education for transportation to and from school unless such autobus is authorized on the certificate of inspection issued by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit.
(b) Owners or operators of buses approved by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit shall submit evidence of such approval to the county superintendent at such times as may be deemed necessary.
13:20-49E.4 Inspection by county superintendent
(a) The county superintendent may inspect any bus approved by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit for any item not covered by the approval of the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit and from which they are not specifically exempted by these rules.
(b) (No change.)
SUBCHAPTER 50. STANDARDS FOR SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED JANUARY 2006 AND THEREAFTER
13:20-50.1 Scope and purpose
(a) This subchapter shall be applicable to all motor vehicles registered in New Jersey originally designed by the manufacturer to carry 10 or more passengers, excluding the driver, operated by, or under contract with, a public or governmental agency, or religious or other charitable organization or corporation, or privately operated for the transportation of children to or from school for secular or religious education, school-connected activity, day camp, summer day camp, nursery school, child care center, preschool center or other similar places of education. All such motor vehicles shall be registered as school buses in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:3-19.2 and shall comply with the rules set forth in this subchapter and in N.J.A.C. 13:20-50A, 50B and 50C, and all applicable Federal standards. A motor vehicle shall not be used for the purposes set forth in this subsection unless it has been registered as a school bus in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:3-19.2 and complies with the rules set forth in this subchapter and in N.J.A.C. 13:20-50A, 50B and 50C, and all applicable Federal standards.
(b) Each school bus shall be inspected twice each year by the Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit to ensure that such vehicle is in safe and proper operating condition. The time and location of the inspections shall be established by the Chief Administrator or his or her designee. When inspections are scheduled at the school bus owner/lessee's terminal, the owner/lessee of the terminal shall provide a clean, safe environment where the buses are to be inspected.
(c) The rules set forth in this subchapter and in N.J.A.C. 13:20-50A, 50B and 50C shall not apply to commercial buses approved for school use.
(d) A commercial bus that is used for the transportation of children to or from school shall display a certificate of inspection issued by the Commission indicating school use. A commercial bus is exempt from displaying a certificate for school use issued by the Commission when being used on a preset franchised route and schedule or chartered for school-connected activities.
(e)-(g) (No change.)
13:20-50.2 Definitions
The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter and in N.J.A.C. 13:20-50A, 50B, and 50C, shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
"Accident" means:
1. A collision involving a school bus or vehicle that results in personal injury or death, or causes disabling damage to one or more motor vehicles requiring the vehicle(s) to be transported away by a tow truck or other vehicle;
2. A collision between a motor vehicle and a student at any time during the loading or unloading process of a school bus or school vehicle; or
3. An injury to a student inside a school bus or vehicle that results from negligent or unsafe acceleration, deceleration or other movement of a school bus.
. . .
"Driver" means the authorized licensed driver of a school bus or vehicle.
. . .
"FMVSS" means the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards as found in the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR Part 571). Copies of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards as found in the Code of Federal Regulations may be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents, United States Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, (202) 783-3238, or at http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/rules/import/FMVSS.
. . .
"NSTSP" means the National School Transportation Specifications and Procedures, 2010 Revised Edition (May 2010), which have been issued by the 2010 National Conference on School Transportation. Copies of this publication may be obtained from the Missouri Safety Center, Central Missouri State University, Humphreys Suite 201, Warrensburg, MO 64093, (660) 543-4830.
"Operator" means the owner or person responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of a school bus or vehicle.
. . .
"Passenger" means any person riding in a school bus or vehicle other than the driver.
. . .
"School bus" or "bus" when used in N.J.A.C. 13:20-50A, 50B, 50C, and this subchapter shall refer to Type A, B, C, and D school buses, which shall be classified in the following manner:
1. (No change.)
2. A "Type B" school bus is constructed utilizing a stripped or cutaway chassis with a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds, originally designed by the manufacturer for carrying 10 to 54 passengers. Part of the engine is beneath and/or behind the windshield and beside the driver's seat. The service door is behind the front wheels;
3. - 4. (No change.)
13:20-50.3 Vehicle manufacturer's certification plate; chassis, body, and/or equipment manufacturer's certification; converter's certification; vendor's certification
(a) The manufacturer of a completed vehicle shall ensure that the vehicle manufacturer's certification plate contains at least the following information:
1.-4. (No change.)
5. Maximum permitted seated passengers and maximum permitted wheelchair capacity as built; to determine capacity, 15 inches of seat space shall be allowed for each seated passenger and 30 inches by 48 inches of wheelchair space, or an amount of space meeting all applicable Federal standards, shall be allowed for each wheelchair position;
6.-8. (No change.)
Recodify existing (c) and (d) as (b) and (c) (No change in text.)
(d) A vendor who sells or leases a school bus for the transportation of children shall issue a "Vendor Certification Statement" to the buyer or lessee, signed by an authorized agent or officer of the company, certifying that the school bus meets all Federal and State standards. The "Vendor Certification Statement" shall identify the school bus by make, model, year, and vehicle identification number. The vendor shall also file a copy of the "Vendor Certification Statement" with the Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit.
13:20-50.4 Capacity
(a) The number of students assigned to a seat shall not exceed the gross seating length in inches divided by 15. The maximum number of students who may be transported in each vehicle shall be determined by this seat measurement. Application of this formula shall not result in the use of a school vehicle with a seating capacity in excess of 54.
(b) There shall be no standees in a school bus or vehicle.
(c) This section shall not apply to a bus that is being used as a common carrier on a preset franchised route and schedule or is chartered for school-related activities.
SUBCHAPTER 50A. CHASSIS STANDARDS FOR SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED JANUARY 2006 AND THEREAFTER
13:20-50A.3 Brakes
(a) (No change.)
(b) School buses using air in the operation of the brake system shall be equipped with a warning signal, readily audible or visible to the driver, that will emit a continuous warning when the air pressure available in the brake system is 55 pounds per square inch and below. The warning signal shall be capable of alerting the driver while the school bus is being operated. An illuminated gauge that will indicate to the driver the air pressure in the brake system in pounds per square inch shall be provided.
1. (No change.)
(c) Except as otherwise provided for Type B school buses constructed on a cutaway chassis, Type B, C, and D school buses using a hydraulic-assist brake system shall be equipped with a back-up pump system and warning signal, readily audible or visible to the driver, that will emit a continuous warning in the event of a loss of fluid flow from the primary source or a failure of the back-up pump system. Type A school buses and Type B school buses constructed on a cutaway chassis using a hydraulic-assist brake system may be equipped in accordance with FMVSS No. 105 (49 CFR 571.105), incorporated herein by reference.
(d)-(i) (No change.)
13:20-50A.4 Bumper, front
(a) A school bus shall be equipped with a front bumper.
(b) The front bumper shall contain no sharp edges and shall be designed so as to prevent snagging. The front bumper may contain an electric outlet for the engine block heater.
(c)-(e) (No change.)
13:20-50A.6 Color
(a)-(c) (No change.)
(d) The front grille shall be gray, chrome, silver, black, stainless steel, or National School Bus Yellow. All other grilles shall be black or National School Bus Yellow.
13:20-50A.12 Fuel tank
(a)-(d) (No change.)
(e) A Type B, C, and D school bus shall be equipped with a steel guard around the fuel tank, except as otherwise provided for a Type B school bus constructed on a cutaway chassis. A Type B, C, and D school bus shall be deemed to be in compliance with this subsection if the fuel tank on such a school bus is mounted between the chassis frame rails. A Type A school bus shall be equipped with a fuel tank in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
(f) The fuel system shall comply with FMVSS No. 301 (49 CFR 571.301), incorporated herein by reference.
13:20-50A.25 Tires and rims
(a)-(e) (No change.)
(f) The tire tread depth shall at no time be less than 4/32 of an inch on the front tires and 2/32 of an inch on the rear tires as measured on two adjacent treads by a Dill gauge or its equivalent.
(g)-(j) (No change.)
13:20-50A.28 Undercoating
The underside of steel or metallic-constructed front fenders may be coated with a rustproofing compound meeting or exceeding Federal Standard Rustproofing of Commercial (Nontactical) Vehicles (FED-STD-297E August 1990), incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented. Copies of the above Federal Standard, which is approved by the Commissioner, Federal Supply Service, United States General Services Administration, may be obtained from the General Services Administration, Federal Supply Service Bureau, Specification Section, Suite 8100, 470 East L'Enfant Plaza, S.W., Washington, DC 20407. The undercoating material shall be nonflammable, shall not peel, crack, chip, or melt, and shall be stable under both high and low temperatures.
SUBCHAPTER 50B. BODY STANDARDS FOR SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED JANUARY 2006 AND THEREAFTER
13:20-50B.1 Air conditioning
(a)-(c) (No change.)
(d) An air conditioning unit shall not be installed over a passenger seat or wheelchair position unless it conforms with FMVSS 222. An air conditioning ducting system that is mounted over a seat or wheelchair position shall not extend into the passenger compartment more than eight inches from the bulkhead nor more than 11 inches from the ceiling of the school bus. An air conditioning ducting system shall be designed and installed so as to be free of projections and sharp edges. Ducts shall be installed so that exposed edges face the front of the school bus and do not present sharp edges. The bottom and corners of ducts shall be padded with one-inch thick fire block material.
(e)-(g) (No change.)
(h) An air conditioning unit shall meet the performance specifications for air conditioning set forth in the NSTSP, 2010 Revised Edition (May 2010), incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented.
(i)-(j) (No change.)
13:20-50B.2 Aisle
(a) (No change.)
(b) Aisles shall not be obstructed at any time by any barrier, seat, wheelchair mounting, or other object; however, a track seating system is permitted in an aisle provided the track and filler cap are flush with the floor or no more than 1/8 inch above the floor line.
13:20-50B.3 Back-up warning alarm
(a) An automatic audible back-up warning alarm shall be installed in the area behind the rear axle of the school bus. The back-up warning alarm shall comply with SAE Standard J994 (August 1993), incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented. The back-up warning alarm shall not be activated when the side or rear emergency doors are opened unless the school bus is in reverse.
(b) A backup monitor is permitted, as long as the device will not operate while the vehicle is in "drive" or forward motion.
13:20-50B.4 Battery
(a)-(c) (No change.)
(d) Wires/cables passing through metal openings shall be protected by a grommet.
13:20-50B.5 Bumpers
(a)-(h) (No change.)
(i) A school bus shall not be equipped with a rear bumper designed in a manner so that it can be used as a step. Rear bumpers may be equipped with tow hook access panels only if the access panels shall remain securely closed when tow hooks are not in use.
13:20-50B.6 Color
(a) The school bus body, including the fenders and all doors, shall be National School Bus Yellow; school bus entrance doors may be National School Bus Yellow or black.
(b) The body exterior paint trim, bumpers, lamp hoods, and emergency door arrow shall be black; and rub rails, exterior mirror assembly and support brackets shall be National School Bus Yellow and/or black; and exterior mirror assembly and support brackets shall be black or stainless steel in color.
(c) The words "EMERGENCY DOOR" shall be applied on both the inside and outside of the emergency door in red or black letters at least two inches high with a brushstroke at least 3/16 inch wide.
(d) (c) National School Bus Yellow retro-reflective material may be applied to the school bus. The material used shall be of an automotive engineering grade or better, shall meet initial reflectance values in accordance with performance specifications for retro-reflective material set forth in the NSTSP, 2010 Revised Edition (May 2010), incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented, and at Appendix B (Retro-reflective Sheeting Daytime Color Specification) thereof, incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented, and shall retain at least 50 percent of the initial reflectance values for a minimum of six years. Retro-reflective materials and markings, if used, may include any or all of the following:
1. If retro-reflective materials and markings are applied to the bumpers, the bumpers shall be marked with stripes of retro-reflective National School Bus Yellow or non-contrasting retro-reflective material. The stripes shall be two inches wide and shall be evenly spaced across the entire width of the bumper. The stripes shall run diagonally at 45 degree angles from the top of the bumper to the bottom of the bumper toward the centerline of the bumper.
2. If retro-reflective materials and markings are applied on the rear, the rear of the school bus body shall be marked with a strip of retro-reflective National School Bus Yellow material no greater than two inches in width to be applied to the back of the school bus, extending from the lower left corner of the "SCHOOL BUS" lettering, across to the left side of the school bus, then vertically down to the top of the bumper, across the school bus on a line immediately above the bumper to the right side, then vertically up to a point even with the strip placement on the left side, and concluding with a horizontal strip terminating at the lower right corner of the "SCHOOL BUS" lettering.
3. If retro-reflective materials and markings are applied to the sides, the sides of the school bus body shall be marked with retro-reflective National School Bus Yellow material at least two inches but not more than 12 inches in width, extending the length of the school bus body and located vertically as close as practicable to the belt line.
(e) The background of the front and/or rear "SCHOOL BUS" signs shall be marked with retro-reflective or illuminated National School Bus Yellow material.
(f) (d) (No change in text.)
13:20-50B.7 Communications
(a)-(b) (No change.)
(c) GPS monitors, transponders and similar devices may be used in a school bus; however, they shall not be mounted more than six inches below the upper edge of the windshield. These devices shall be located outside the area swept by the windshield wipers, and outside the driver's sight lines to the road and highway signs and signals. These devices shall not obstruct any other equipment required by State or Federal regulation or statute.
13:20-50B.11 Doors, emergency
(a)-(f) (No change.)
(g) The words "EMERGENCY DOOR" shall be applied on both the inside and outside of the emergency door in red or black letters at least two inches high with a brushstroke at least 3/16 inch wide. The letters shall be placed directly above the emergency door; or on the top of the emergency door in the metal panel above the safety glazing; or on the uppermost portion of the safety glazing provided that the letters on the safety glazing are on a background of a contrasting color and further provided that the emergency door has an exposed clear glass area of not less than 400 square inches as provided in (d) above.
(h)-(i) (No change.)
(j) The emergency door may be equipped with a locking system that incorporates an interlocking electrical circuit that prevents the engine of the school bus from being started while the emergency door is locked. A buzzer shall be provided in the driver's compartment that will indicate to the driver that the door lock has been tampered with while the school bus is in motion. No other locking system designed for school bus security shall be used. The engine start circuit system of a school bus shall not operate if an emergency door is locked from either inside or outside the school bus.
(k)-(p) (No change.)
13:20-50B.12 Doors, service
(a)-(b) (No change.)
(c) The service door on all school buses shall have a minimum horizontal opening of 24 inches and a minimum vertical opening of 68 inches. The service door on a Type A school bus shall have a minimum opening area of 1,200 square inches.
(d) (No change.)
(e) The glass portion of the door panels shall be approved safety glass. The bottom of each lower glass panel shall not be more than 10 inches from the top surface of the bottom step. The top of the upper glass panel shall not be more than three inches from the top of the door.
(f) The vertical closing edges on a split-type door shall be equipped with a flexible material to protect against injury.
(g)-(k) (No change.)
13:20-50B.13 Emergency equipment
(a) A school bus may be equipped with a pry bar 24 at least 23 inches in length. If so equipped, it shall be securely mounted in the school bus in a location easily accessible to the driver.
(b) Each school bus shall contain at least three reflectorized triangular road-warning devices in compliance with FMVSS No. 125 (49 CFR 571.125), incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented, which shall be securely mounted in an accessible place in the driver's compartment and/or under the left rear seat.
(c) A school bus may be equipped with a properly identified body fluid clean-up kit that is removable, moistureproof and mounted in an accessible place in the driver's compartment.
13:20-50B.14 Emergency exits
(a) School buses shall be equipped with emergency push-out side exit windows that are vertically hinged on the forward side of the window as follows:
1. A minimum of one emergency push-out exit window per side.
i. Emergency push-out side exit windows shall not be placed directly opposite each other. This requirement does not apply to buses with more than one emergency window exit on one side.
ii. (No change.)
iii. Each emergency exit window shall be outlined around its outside perimeter with a retro-reflective tape with a minimum width of 2.5 centimeters (.975 inch) and shall be either red, white, or yellow in color.
iv.-v. (No change.)
vi. Emergency push-out side exit windows shall not be obstructed at any time by any barrier, seat, door, or other object and may be labeled "DO NOT BLOCK" in letters at least one inch high and of a color that contrasts with the background.
2. (No change.)
(b) (No change.)
13:20-50B.15 Fire extinguisher/suppression systems
(a) School buses may be equipped with an automatic fire suppression system for the engine compartment. If so equipped, the fire suppression system shall be installed in accordance with the fire suppression system manufacturer's installation specifications. A school bus shall not be equipped with a fire suppression system that uses the chemical Halon as the fire suppression agent.
(b) School buses may be equipped with fire suppression systems in other locations in accordance with the fire suppression system manufacturer's installation specifications.
(c) If a school bus is equipped with an automatic fire suppression system for the engine compartment in accordance with (a) above, an indicator light shall be provided in the driver's compartment that will indicate to the driver the existence of a fire in the engine compartment of the school bus. The indicator light shall remain lit until the system is serviced and the light reset. An indicator light shall be provided in the driver's compartment that will indicate a system discharge.
(d) Every school bus shall be equipped with at least one UL-approved pressurized, dry chemical-type fire extinguisher, complete with hose, mounted in a bracket located in the driver's compartment and readily accessible to the driver and passengers. A pressure gauge shall be mounted on the fire extinguisher that can be easily read without removing the fire extinguisher from its mounted position. The fire extinguisher shall be fully-charged.
(e) (No change.)
13:20-50B.16 First aid kit
(a) A removable first aid kit may be provided. The first aid kit shall be moistureproof and dustproof and shall be mounted in an accessible place in the immediate vicinity of the driver's compartment. When the first aid kit is stored in a storage compartment, the location of the kit shall be identified by the words "FIRST AID" in red letters two inches high and 3/16 inch wide. If the first aid kit is stored in a storage compartment, the storage compartment shall be identified by the words "FIRST AID" in red letters at least two inches high with a brushstroke at least 3/16 inch wide. The storage compartment may also be marked with the Red Cross symbol.
(b) The first aid kit shall contain sufficient supplies for the capacity of the school bus. Suggested items include, but are not limited to:
1.-9. (No change.)
10. One pair medical examination gloves;
11. One pair rounded-end scissors; and
12. One mouth-to-mouth airway.
13:20-50B.18 Heaters
(a)-(d) (No change.)
(e) Every heater installed by a body manufacturer shall bear a nameplate that indicates that the heater rating is in accordance with specifications for heating systems set forth in the NSTSP, 2010 Revised Edition (May 2010), incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented. The nameplate shall be affixed by the heater manufacturer and shall constitute the manufacturer's certification that the heater performance is as shown on the nameplate.
(f) (No change.)
(g) Each hot water heater system installed by the body manufacturer shall include one shut-off valve in the pressure line and one shut-off valve in the return line with both valves at or near the engine or at another location accessible to the driver that will isolate the heating system from the engine in the event of a leak. Each hot water heater system shall also include a water flow regulating valve installed in the pressure line for convenient operation by the driver while seated. The hot water heater system in a Type A and B school bus constructed on a cutaway chassis may conform to the chassis manufacturer's standard.
(h)-(l) (No change.)
13:20-50B.19 Identification
(a) The words "SCHOOL BUS" shall be applied to the body of a school bus, or on signs attached thereto, in black letters not less than eight inches high on both the front and rear of the school bus between the signal warning lamps, on a background marked with retro-reflective or illuminated National School Bus Yellow material. The lettering shall be placed as high as possible without impairment of its visibility. The lettering shall conform to Series B of Standard Alphabets for Highway Signs, Federal Highway Administration, 1966 Edition, reprinted May 1972, incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented, copies of which may be obtained from the Federal Highway Administration, 400 Seventh Street, S.W., Room 3408, Washington, DC 20590. An illuminated front and rear destination sign with the words "SCHOOL BUS" in black letters not less than eight inches high on a background of National School Bus Yellow may be used.
(b)-(c) (No change.)
(d) Only signs and lettering limited to the name and municipality of the school bus owner or operator and any numbers and/or letters necessary for school bus identification shall appear on the sides of the school bus:
1. (No change.)
2. Numbers and/or letters necessary for school bus identification shall be in prominent locations on the school bus below the window line. The numbers and/or letters shall be white, black, or National School Bus Yellow and shall be not more than six inches in height. Numbers and/or letters necessary for school bus identification may also be located on the bumpers and/or roof in an appropriate size for aerial viewing.
3. (No change.)
(e) (No change.)
(f) A route destination sign may be affixed to the right side of a school bus inside the lower portion of the side window located directly behind the first seatback. The route destination sign shall be a maximum of eight and one half inches by 11 inches. A route destination sign shall not be displayed on any other window.
(g) If a route destination sign is affixed to the exterior of a school bus, it shall be affixed to the right side of the school bus to the left of the service door directly below the first window between the rub rails. The route destination sign shall be a maximum of eight and one half inches by 11 inches.
13:20-50B.20 Inside height
The inside body height of a school bus shall be not less than 72 inches measured from the ceiling to the nonskid floor surface metal to metal, at any point on the longitudinal centerline from the front bulkhead to the rear bulkhead vertical bow to the rear vertical bow. The inside body height of a Type A school bus shall be not less than 62 inches measured from the ceiling to the nonskid floor surface at any point on the centerline from the front bulkhead to the rear bulkhead.
13:20-50B.23 Lamps and signals
(a)-(b) (No change.)
(c) (Reserved)
(d)-(e) (No change.)
(f) Alternately flashing signal warning lamps shall be provided as follows:
1. Every school bus shall be equipped with strobe, LED or incandescent signal warning lamps.
2.-3. (No change.)
4. The system of red and amber signal warning lamps shall be wired so that the amber signal warning lamps are energized manually, and the red signal warning lamps are automatically energized (with the amber signal warning lamps automatically deenergized) when the stop signal arm is extended and when the school bus service door is opened. An amber signal warning lamp cancel switch, easily accessible to the driver, shall be installed to allow the driver to cancel the amber signal warning lamps without using the master switch or opening the service door.
i. In addition to the above requirement, school buses equipped with an automatic service door shall be equipped with an emergency manual override switch to permit the driver to activate the red signal warning lamps prior to opening the door.
5. (No change.)
6. Each school bus shall be equipped with indicator lights that monitor the proper operation and illumination of the front and rear alternately flashing signal warning lamps. The indicator lights shall be mounted in full view of the driver. If the full circuit current passes through the indicator lights, each circuit shall be protected by a fuse or circuit breaker.
7.-9. (No change.)
(g) The school bus body shall be equipped with two rear turn signal lamps that conform to FMVSS No. 108 (49 CFR 571.108), incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented. Each rear turn signal lamp shall have a diameter of at least seven inches, or shall have an illuminated lens area of at least 38 square inches if the turn signal lamp is of a shape other than round. Turn signal lamps shall be connected to the chassis hazard warning switch to cause simultaneous flashing of the turn signal lamps when needed as a vehicular traffic hazard warning. Turn signal lamps shall be placed as wide apart as practical and their centerline shall be approximately eight inches below the rear window.
(h) Every school bus shall be equipped with four combination red stoplamps/taillamps as follows:
1.-2. (No change.)
(i) A white flashing strobe light may be installed on the roof of a school bus at a location not to exceed one-third the body length forward from the rear of the roof edge, or on the roof of a school bus in the area directly over the restraining barrier on the driver's side. The light shall have a single clear lens emitting light 360 degrees around its vertical axis. The light shall not extend above the roof so as to place the school bus in violation of the maximum height standard set forth in N.J.S.A. 39:3-84. A manual switch and a pilot light shall be included to indicate to the driver when the light is in operation. The light shall be wired to activate with the amber alternately flashing signal warning lamps, continuing through the full loading or unloading cycle, and shall be equipped with an override switch to allow activation of the light at any time for use in inclement weather.
(j) (No change.)
13:20-50B.25 Mirrors
(a)-(c) (No change.)
(d) Mounting brackets shall be affixed to the school bus so as to be securely fastened to the structural frame members of the school bus body, or shall be affixed to the existing exterior rear view mirror mounting brackets. Exterior mirror housing and support brackets shall be black and/or stainless steel in color. The mirror attachments such as clips, nuts, screws, rims, and rings may be black or chrome stainless steel in color.
13:20-50B.27 Overall length
The maximum overall length of a school bus body shall not exceed 42 feet, excluding the bumpers. The maximum overhang of the body to the rear of the center of the rear axle shall not be in excess of one-third of the total length of the vehicle.
13:20-50B.30 Rub rails
(a)-(g) (No change.)
(h) Rub rails shall be black and/or National School Bus Yellow.
(i) Rub rails shall be continuous across the luggage compartment areas attached on the full length of luggage compartment doors, in alignment with adjacent rub rails on the body of the vehicle.
13:20-50B.33 Seats and restraining barriers
(a)-(c) (No change.)
(d) The seat, seatback cushion, and restraining barrier shall be completely encapsulated and shall meet the performance criteria in the School Bus Seat Upholstery Fire Block Test set forth in Appendix B of the NSTSP, 2010 Revised Edition (May 2010), incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented.
(e)-(h) (No change.)
(i) The driver's seat shall be of the highback-type with a minimum seatback adjustment of 15 degrees and with a head restraint to accommodate a 5th percentile female and a 95th percentile adult male. The driver's seat shall meet the performance criteria in the School Bus Seat Upholstery Fire Block Test set forth in Appendix B of the NSTSP, 2010 Revised Edition (May 2010), incorporated herein by reference, as amended and supplemented, and shall be secured with nuts, bolts, and washers or flange-headed nuts. The space between the back of the driver's seat, in the rearmost position, and the front surface of the restraining barrier located directly behind the driver shall be in accordance with FMVSS No. 222 (49 CFR 571.222), incorporated herein by reference, for barrier deflection.
(j) (No change.)
13:20-50B.35 Steps
(a)-(e) (No change.)
(f) Type A and B school buses on a cutaway chassis may have a step for the driver's door, which step shall be black or stainless steel in color.
13:20-50B.37 Stirrup steps
If the windshield and/or lamps are not easily accessible from the ground, there shall be at least one folding stirrup step or recessed foothold and suitably located handles on each side of the front of the school bus body. Steps are permitted in or on the front bumper in lieu of stirrup steps if the windshield and lamps are easily accessible for cleaning from that position. Steps shall be black, stainless steel in color, and/or National School Bus Yellow.
13:20-50B.40 Sun shield
Except as otherwise provided for a Type B school bus constructed on a cutaway chassis, every Type B, C, and D school bus shall be equipped with an interior adjustable, transparent sun shield not less than six inches by 30 inches with a finished edge. A Type A school bus and a Type B school bus constructed on a cutaway chassis shall be equipped with a sun shield that is not less than six inches by 16 inches; provided, however, that a Type A school bus and a Type B school bus constructed on a cutaway chassis may be equipped with a sun shield in accordance with the manufacturer ' s specifications. The sun shield shall be tinted and shall be installed in a position convenient for use by the driver.
13:20-50B.43 Undercoating
(a) The entire underside of the school bus body, including floor sections, cross members, and side panels below the floor line, may be coated with a rustproofing compound for which the compound manufacturer has issued a notarized certification of compliance to the bus body builder that the compound meets or exceeds all performance and qualitative requirements of applicable Federal specifications.
(b) (No change.)
13:20-50B.49 Wiring
(a)-(h) (No change.)
(i) A heavy-duty solenoid switch or electronic control system shall be installed in the main electrical power supply line to the body circuits on each Type A, B, C, and D school bus. The solenoid switch shall be energized by the school bus ignition switch. Hazard and turn signal lamp circuits shall operate independently of the ignition switch.
SUBCHAPTER 50C. STANDARDS FOR SPECIALLY EQUIPPED SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED JANUARY 2006 AND THEREAFTER
13:20-50C.2 Aisle
(a) The aisle leading to the emergency door and the power lift door from each wheelchair position shall be a minimum width of 30 inches.
(b) A school bus designed for transporting students with special transportation needs may have a track system with a track in the aisle; provided however, the track and filler cap shall be flush with the floor or no more than 1/8 inch above the floor line.
13:20-50C.6 Fire suppression systems
(a) Every school bus shall be equipped with an automatic fire suppression system for the engine compartment. The fire suppression system shall be installed in accordance with the fire suppression system manufacturer's specifications.
(b) School buses may be equipped with fire suppression systems in other locations in accordance with the fire suppression system manufacturer's installation specifications.
(c) (No change.)
13:20-50C.7 Identification
A school bus equipped with a power lift shall display at least one International Symbol of Accessibility on the back of the school bus below the window line. The International Symbol of Accessibility shall not exceed 12 inches by 12 inches in size, shall be white on a blue background, and shall be of a high-intensity reflectorized material.
13:20-50C.9 Power lift
(a) A school bus used for the transportation of students who use wheelchairs or other mobile seating devices or who require life support equipment shall be equipped with a power lift in accordance with FMVSS Nos. 403 and 404 (49 CFR 571.403 and 571.404), which are incorporated herein by reference.
(b)-(o) (No change.)
SUBCHAPTER 51. STANDARDS FOR TYPE S SCHOOL VEHICLES
13:20-51.1 Scope
(a) This subchapter shall apply to any Type S school vehicle including, but not limited to, vans and passenger automobiles, which is used for the transportation of children to or from school or school-connected activities.
(b) This subchapter shall also apply to all Type S school vehicles, including limousines, omnibuses, taxicabs, motor vehicles for which a handicapped placard or registration plates have been issued in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:4-206, and motor vehicles for which no fee registration plates have been issued in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:3-27 that are used for two or more modes of transportation, one of which is for the transportation of children to or from school or school-connected activities.
(c) A Type S school vehicle shall be inspected twice each year by the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Services Bus Unit to ensure that such vehicle is in safe and proper operating condition. The time and location of the inspection shall be established by the Chief Administrator or his or her designee.
(d) A motor vehicle with a GVWR of less than 3,000 pounds or more than 9,600 pounds GVWR shall not be used for the transportation of children to or from school or school-connected activities. A motor vehicle with a center aisle shall not be used as a Type S school vehicle.
(e) (No change.)
(f) Any modification to a Type S school vehicle for the purpose of transporting children with special needs shall comply with all applicable FMVSS and SAE standards governing the modifications.
13:20-51.2 Definitions
The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
"Accident" means:
1. A collision involving a school bus or vehicle that results in personal injury or death, or causes disabling damage to one or more motor vehicles requiring the vehicle(s) to be transported away by a tow truck or other vehicle;
2. A collision between a motor vehicle and a student at any time during the loading or unloading process of a school bus or school vehicle; or
3. An injury to a student inside a school bus or vehicle that results from negligent or unsafe acceleration, deceleration or other movement of a school bus.
. . .
"Driver" means the authorized licensed driver of a Type S school vehicle.
"FMVSS" means the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards as found in the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR Part 571). Copies of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards as found in the Code of Federal Regulations may be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents, United States Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, (202) 783-3238, or at http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/rules/import/FMVSS.
. . .
"Operator" means the owner or person responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of a Type S school vehicle.
"Passenger" means any person riding in a Type S school vehicle other than the driver.
. . .
"Type S school vehicle" means a motor vehicle with a GVWR of 3,000 pounds or more, originally designed by the manufacturer with a maximum seating capacity of nine passengers or less excluding the driver, operated by, or under contract with, a public or governmental agency, or religious or other charitable organization or corporation, or privately operated for the transportation of children to or from school for secular or religious education, school-connected activity, day camp, summer day camp, nursery school, child care center, preschool center, or other similar places of education.
. . .
13:20-51.3 Capacity
(a) No more than nine passengers excluding the driver, may be transported in each Type S school vehicle. Fifteen inches of seat length shall be provided for each passenger.
(b) (No change.)
13:20-51.4 Chains or snow tires
The drive wheels of Type S school vehicles shall be equipped with tire chains, all-weather tires, or snow tires for safe operation in areas of snow and/or ice.
13:20-51.6 Fire extinguisher
(a) A fully-charged dry chemical fire extinguisher with a pressure gauge approved by the UL with the minimum UL rating of B2, C2, 1/2BC, or 10BC shall be provided. The fire extinguisher shall be mounted in a bracket in a convenient location in the driver's compartment.
(b) A Type S school vehicle shall not be equipped with a fire suppression system that uses the chemical Halon as the fire suppression agent.
13:20-51.7 First aid kit
(a) A removable first aid kit may be provided. The first aid kit shall be a moistureproof and dustproof container without a lock. When the first aid kit is stored in a storage compartment, the location of the kit shall be identified by the words "First Aid" in red letters two inches high and 3/16 inch wide. The kit shall contain sufficient supplies for the capacity of the school bus or vehicle. Suggested items include, but are not limited to:
1.-6. (No change.)
13:20-51.9 Heater capacity
The heater shall be capable of bringing the interior temperature of the Type S school vehicle up to and maintaining a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
13:20-51.10 Lettering
(a) A Type S school vehicle shall display lettering that indicates the name of the operator and the name of the municipality in which the operator has his or her principal place of business, wording on the rear of a school vehicle to indicate that the vehicle stops at railroad crossings, wording on the rear of the school vehicle to indicate that the vehicle is carrying children, and on the rear of the school vehicle the International Symbol of Accessibility to indicate that the vehicle is capable of transporting a wheelchair. Magnetic lettering may be accepted. A Type S school vehicle shall not display any advertising or telephone numbers. Lettering shall not be permitted on the windows of a school vehicle.
(b) (No change.)
13:20-51.11 Rear view mirrors
Approved rear view mirrors shall be mounted inside and outside of a Type S school vehicle. Outside mirrors shall be mounted on both sides of the Type S school vehicle.
13:20-51.13 Seats and backrests
(a)-(c) (No change.)
(d) A vehicle shall not be used as a Type S school vehicle if the seat in front of the seat to be exited from must be folded in order for a passenger to exit the vehicle.
(e)-(f) (No change.)
SUBCHAPTER 52. INSURANCE
13:20-52.1 General provisions
(a)-(f) (No change.)
(g) An Accord 25 Insurance form (certificate of liability) and a list of school vehicles covered by the policy shall be mailed to Motor Vehicle Commission, Bus Unit, PO Box 177, 225 E. State Street, Trenton, NJ 08666.
(h) New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission and New Jersey Department of Education shall be named as certificate holders.
(i) The district board of education and the executive county superintendent of schools and the Motor Vehicle Commission shall be notified by the insured whenever any policy is cancelled. Notification shall be made within 48 hours of receipt of the notification of the cancellation by the insured, and in all cases before the cancellation takes effect.
SUBCHAPTER 53. STANDARDS FOR ALTERNATIVELY FUELED SCHOOL BUSES
13:20-53.2 Definitions
The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter and in N.J.A.C. 13:20-53A, 53B, and 53C, shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
. . .
"FMVSS" means the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards as found in the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR Part 571). Copies of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards as found in the Code of Federal Regulations may be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents, United States Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, (202) 783-3238, or http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/rules/import/FMVSS.
. . .
"School bus" or "bus" when used in N.J.A.C. 13:20-53A, 53B, 53C, or this subchapter means every motor vehicle operated by, or under contract with, a public or governmental agency, or religious or other charitable organization or corporation, or privately operated for the transportation of children to or from school for secular or religious education, school-connected activity, day camp, summer day camp, nursery school, child-care center, preschool center, or other similar places of education.
. . .
13:20-53.6 Venting
(a) All safety devices that may discharge to the atmosphere shall be vented to the outside of the school bus, and all discharge lines and outlets shall be installed as follows:
1.-3. (No change.)
4. The discharge line from the safety relief valve on all school buses shall be located as per manufacturer's specifications. Means shall be provided to verify that the discharge line is clear.
5.-7. (No change.)
SUBCHAPTER 53A. STANDARDS FOR SCHOOL BUSES HAVING FUEL SYSTEMS USING LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS
13:20-53A.14 Vents
Every compartment in which an LPG fuel supply container is installed shall be vented to the atmosphere unless all piping and connectors are outside of the compartment. The vent or vents shall be installed as per manufacturer's specifications.
SUBCHAPTER 53B. STANDARDS FOR SCHOOL BUSES HAVING FUEL SYSTEMS USING COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS
13:20-53B.8 Vents
Every compartment in which a CNG fuel supply container is installed shall be vented to the atmosphere, unless all piping and connectors outside of the compartment are vapor-sealed and vented to the atmosphere. The vent or vents shall be installed as per manufacturer's specifications.
SUBCHAPTER 53C. STANDARDS FOR SCHOOL BUSES HAVING FUEL SYSTEMS USING LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS
13:20-53C.10 Vents
Every compartment in which an LNG fuel supply container is installed shall be vented to the atmosphere unless all piping and connectors are outside of the compartment. The vent or vents shall be installed as per manufacturer's specifications.
