FILE:  EDCB

Cf:  EDC

 

SCHOOL BUS IDLING

 

 

Diesel exhaust from idling school buses can accumulate in and around the bus and pose a health risk to children, operators and the community at large.  Exposure to diesel exhaust can cause lung damage and respiratory problems.  Diesel exhaust also exacerbates asthma and existing allergies, and long-term exposure is thought to increase the risk of lung cancer.  Idling buses also waste fuel and financial resources.

 

In an effort to eliminate unnecessary idling by Avoyelles Parish school buses and minimize idling time in all aspects of school bus operation, the following guidelines shall be in effect for the operation of all Avoyelles Parish School Board-owned buses:

 

  1. When school bus operators arrive at schools' loading or unloading areas to drop off or pick up passengers, they should turn off their buses if wait time is greater than three (3) minutes to eliminate idling time and reduce harmful emissions.  In loading areas, the school bus should not be restarted until it is ready to depart and there is a clear path to exit the pick-up area.  Exceptions include conditions that would compromise passenger safety, such as extreme weather or idling in traffic.

  2. Idling time during early morning warm-up shall be limited to what is recommended by the manufacturer - five (5) minutes - in all but the coldest weather.

  3. Buses shall not idle while waiting for students during field trips, extracurricular activities or other events where students are transported off school grounds.

  4. In colder weather, schools shall provide a space inside the school where bus operators can wait.

  5. In colder weather, if the warmth of the bus is an issue, the "warmed" bus shall enter the school zone as close to pick-up time as possible to maintain warmth and then shut down.

  6. The Avoyelles Parish School Board Transportation Department shall review all routes, and when necessary, revise bus schedules for maximum efficiency and safety.

  7. All operators shall receive a copy of this policy at the beginning of every school year.

 

New policy:  November 7, 2017

 

 

Ref:    Board minutes, 11-7-17

 

Avoyelles Parish School Board