School buses - warning systems
All buses used solely or principally to convey children to and from school must be fitted with a warning system to alert other motorists to the presence of children on the buses.
The Road Transport (Safety and Traffic management) (Road Rules) Regulation 1999 Clause 93 and Clause 94 relate to buses, and require all buses conveying children to and from school be fitted with 40km/h static signage at the rear of the bus, and ‘wig-wag’ lights as a warning system at the front and rear of the bus. As well, the bus headlamps must flash alternatively when the ‘wig-wag’ lights are activated and the bus doors are open to allow the boarding or disembarking of children.
This regulation does not apply if the bus is being used on charter for a school excursion or for community service activities.
Whilst the regulation is administered by the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA), the NSW Ministry of Transport and accredited bus operators are involved in the management of issues relating to school bus safety, such as the appropriate use of ‘wig-wag’ lights and 40 km/h static signage.
Some schools may own or manage a bus that is used to convey children to or from the school. In such cases, the principal should ensure the bus is used in accordance with the legislation. All vehicles that are licensed to carry 10 or more persons, including the driver, are covered by the legislation.
© State of New South Wales through the Department of Education and Training, 2008. All rights reserved.
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