As summer break begins, it just as quickly draws near the end. July can feel like the shortest month of the year for school districts and teachers as preparations begin for the new school year. What better time for a series on school bus safety that will continue through the next few weeks.
Many parents wonder about school bus safety as they watch their children stream onto the bus at the start of the school year. This is a good time to discuss the vehicle itself and what is required before it is put on a route.
School Bus Inspections-
The Colorado Department of Education has set specific guidelines to be followed to insure that all school buses in a district’s fleet are in top working condition. These guidelines are followed through a mandatory “CDE inspection”, or more often referred to as an “Annual Inspection”.
A CDE Inspection is typically scheduled for an entire day with an inspector. This consists of a “wheels off” inspection. This is a rigorous inspection, and for comparison sake much more involved than a scheduled one hour DOT inspection.
(A DOT inspection is an inspection conducted by the Department of Transportation to ensure that all the CMV parts and accessories are safe to use, in good condition and working properly.)
The CDE Inspection follows a specific checklist and the “Rules for the Annual Inspection and Preventive Maintenance” set forth by the Colorado Department of Education. This annual inspection and any expenses incurred are the responsibility of the vehicle owner.
What does all of this mean for your child’s safety on the school bus? Simply put, if any vehicle does NOT pass this mandatory CDE Inspection, or the proper paperwork hasn’t been filed, it is NOT allowed in service until the proper repairs have been done and the inspection passed.
Colorado/West Equipment, Inc has partnered with local licensed CDE Inspectors for our customers inspection and maintenance needs. Child safety on our Blue Bird school buses, as well as safety on our commercial buses is our top priority. Please contact us with any questions or needs. We look forward to serving you.
**Resources can be referenced in the links above