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Detailed Daily Inspection Checklist for Public Transit Buses - Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR)
Introduction
Daily inspections are critical for public transit bus safety, compliance, and reliability. This comprehensive checklist serves as a Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) that fulfills federal requirements while helping operators identify potential issues before they lead to equipment failure, accidents, or service disruptions. A thorough daily inspection ensures that transit buses operate efficiently and safely while carrying passengers throughout the service day.
Following this detailed public transit bus inspection checklist helps create a safer transportation environment, prevents unexpected breakdowns during service, provides vital documentation for regulatory compliance (including FTA and DOT requirements), and extends the service life of transit fleet vehicles. The checklist aligns with FMCSA regulations, manufacturer specifications, and industry best practices for public transportation safety and maintenance.
Vehicle Information
Pro Tips for Transit Bus Inspections
- Passenger Perspective: Consider passenger experience during inspection. Look for issues passengers might encounter, such as loose grab rails, damaged seats, or trip hazards.
- Accessibility Focus: Pay special attention to ADA equipment such as wheelchair lifts/ramps, securement systems, and priority seating areas, as these are critical for equal access to public transportation.
- Documentation Is Protection: Detailed records of daily inspections can provide valuable liability protection in case of incidents or allegations, and satisfy FTA/DOT audit requirements.
- Communication Is Key: Properly documenting and communicating defects ensures maintenance staff understand the exact nature and location of issues, speeding up repairs and reducing downtime.
Pre-Trip Exterior Inspection
Lighting System
Tires & Wheels
Engine Compartment
Brake System
Steering & Suspension
Passenger Access & Safety
ADA Accessibility Equipment
Interior Condition
Driver Area
Emergency Equipment
Technology Systems
Critical Inspection Procedures
Follow these detailed procedures for critical safety systems to ensure your transit bus meets all regulatory requirements and is safe for passenger service.
Complete Air Brake Check
- Start with air brake system fully charged (approximately 120-125 psi)
- Turn off engine, release parking brake, put transmission in neutral
- Apply foot brake firmly and hold for 1 minute; observe no more than 3 psi loss for single vehicles
- Start engine and allow air pressure to build to governed cut-out (120-125 psi); time should be less than 3 minutes
- With engine running, pump brake pedal to reduce air pressure; low air warning should activate at approximately 60 psi
- Continue pumping brakes; parking brakes should automatically engage at approximately 20-45 psi
- Build pressure back to operational range and test parking brake function
Wheelchair Lift/Ramp Inspection
- Check lift/ramp for any fluid leaks or damaged components
- Deploy lift/ramp and inspect for smooth, controlled operation
- Verify lift interlocks prevent movement when deployed
- Check barrier plate on lift platform functions properly
- Test manual backup system for emergency operation
- Ensure all safety features and warning systems function
- Stow lift/ramp and confirm it locks securely in place
Emergency Exit Verification
- Check all emergency exit window markings are clearly visible
- Verify emergency window release mechanisms move freely
- Inspect roof hatch emergency exits for proper function
- Test emergency door release mechanisms
- Confirm all emergency exit instruction placards are present and legible
- Verify audible alarms sound when emergency exits are activated
- Ensure all exits are unobstructed and accessible
Engine Start & Warning Indicator Check
- Before starting engine, turn key to "on" position
- Verify all warning lights illuminate during bulb check
- Start engine and ensure all warning lights extinguish
- Monitor oil pressure gauge shows immediate pressure
- Check air pressure builds at proper rate
- Observe all gauge readings are within normal ranges
- Listen for unusual engine noises or vibrations
Inspection Progress
0% complete
Driver's Certification
Driver's Signature
Defects & Maintenance Notes
Mechanic's Review (if defects reported)
Mechanic's Signature
Regulatory Requirements
Understanding the regulatory framework governing public transit bus inspections ensures compliance with federal, state, and local requirements.
FMCSA Requirements (49 CFR §396)
- Daily post-trip DVIR required for passenger-carrying CMVs
- Report must identify vehicle and list any defects
- Reports must be submitted to motor carrier
- Carriers must certify repairs were made or deemed unnecessary
- Driver must review previous DVIR before operating vehicle
- Records must be maintained for at least 3 months
FTA Transit Bus Safety Requirements
- Public Transit Agency Safety Plans (PTASP) compliance
- State Safety Oversight (SSO) requirements
- Preventive maintenance program documentation
- Adherence to manufacturer maintenance schedules
- Safety Management System (SMS) implementation
- ADA equipment must be maintained in operative condition
ADA Compliance Requirements
- Wheelchair lifts/ramps must be cycled and inspected daily
- Public transit entities must repair accessibility features promptly
- Alternative accessible transportation must be provided when accessibility features are inoperative
- Regular preventive maintenance required on all accessibility features
- Personnel must be trained in proper operation of accessibility equipment
- Adequate maintenance records must be maintained
Record Keeping Requirements
- Vehicle file must include identification information
- Documentation of all maintenance, repairs, and inspections
- Records must track routine/preventive maintenance
- Documentation for accessibility equipment maintenance
- Records of driver DVIR submissions and corrections
- Systematic record-keeping for compliance audits
Conclusion
Implementing this Detailed Daily Inspection Checklist for Public Transit Buses (DVIR) is essential for maintaining passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. By systematically inspecting all critical components before each service day, drivers can identify potential issues before they lead to equipment failure, accidents, or service disruptions. This proactive approach not only protects passengers and other road users but also extends the service life of valuable transit assets.
For optimal DVIR management, consider implementing the FleetRabbit Software to streamline your public transit inspection process. The FleetRabbit platform allows digital documentation of inspections, provides real-time alerts for maintenance requirements, and creates comprehensive historical records for each vehicle. With the FleetRabbit APP, transit agencies can easily track compliance, monitor maintenance patterns, and ensure all equipment is properly inspected.
Make transit bus inspections an integral part of your public transportation safety program with the FleetRabbit Software's comprehensive DVIR management solution. Whether for FTA compliance, ADA requirements, or operational safety, this digital approach significantly improves inspection thoroughness and documentation while reducing administrative burden on drivers and maintenance personnel.
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