AUTHORITY: Implementing Article VIII of Chapter 12 of the Illinois Vehicle Code [625 ILCS 5/Ch. 12, Art. VIII] and Section 14-3(m) of the Criminal Code of 1961 [720 ILCS 5/14-3(m)] and authorized by Section 12-812 of the Illinois Vehicle Code [625 ILCS 5/12-812].

SOURCE: Adopted at 2 Ill. Reg. 45, p. 115, effective November 10, 1978; codified at 8 Ill. Reg. 15002; amended at 8 Ill. Reg. 15505, effective August 10, 1984; amended at 12 Ill. Reg. 4220, effective February 9, 1988; amended at 16 Ill. Reg. 1685, effective January 14, 1992; amended at 17 Ill. Reg. 3540, effective March 2, 1993; amended at 18 Ill. Reg. 14789, effective September 20, 1994; amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002; amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007; amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 18305, effective November 14, 2008.

SUBPART A: GENERAL

 

Section 442.110  Scope

 

This Part is intended to provide minimum standards for constructing and equipping new Type II school buses manufactured for use in Illinois. This Part assumes compliance with applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) (49 CFR 571), and the Society of Automotive Engineer Standards (SAE), and implements applicable Sections of the Illinois Vehicle Code (the Code) [625 ILCS 5/Ch. 12, Art. VIII]. In addition, this Part sets forth certain other minimum standards established by the Department, and authorized by Section 12-812 of the Code, to govern aspects not governed by the FMVSS, SAE Standards, or the Code.  At the request of school bus owners and operators, a few of the requirements in this Part relate to durability and maintenance of school buses rather than safety.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.120  Definitions

 

"ANSI" means the American National Standards Institute (11 West 42^nd Street, New York NY 10036).

 

"Body" means the portion of a bus that encloses the occupant and cargo spaces and separates those spaces from the chassis frame, engine compartment, driveline, and other "chassis" components, except certain chassis controls used by the driver.

 

"Body-on-Chassis" means a completed vehicle consisting of a passenger seating body mounted on a truck type chassis (or other separate chassis) so that the body and chassis are separate entities, although one may reinforce or brace the other.

 

"Child Check System" means an optional mechanical or electronic monitoring system used for ensuring that no passengers remain on the school bus at the end of a route, a work shift, or the work day.  The system shall require the school bus driver to walk to the rear of the bus to deactivate the system before the driver leaves the bus.  The vehicle's interior lights must illuminate when the ignition is turned off to assist the driver in seeing in and under the seats during a visual sweep of the bus.  (See P.A. 95-0260, effective August 17, 2007.)

 

"Code" means the Illinois Vehicle Code [625 ILCS 5].

 

"Driver" means every person who drives or is in actual physical control of a vehicle. (Section 1-116 of the Code)

 

"Empty Weight" means the unloaded vehicle weight; i.e., the weight of a vehicle with maximum capacity of all fluids necessary for operation of the vehicle but without cargo or occupant (49 CFR 571.3), plus 350 pounds allowance for driver and equipment.

 

"FMVSS" means the rules and standards set forth in 49 CFR 571 and known as the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

 

"Forward Control" means a configuration in which more than half of the engine length is rearward of the foremost point of the windshield base and the steering wheel hub is in the forward quarter of the vehicle length (49 CFR 571.3) – includes mid-engine and rear-engine "pusher" buses.

 

"Gross Vehicle Weight Rating" or "GVWR" means the value specified by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of the school bus.  (See Section 1-124.5 of the Code.)

 

"Incomplete Vehicle" means an assemblage consisting, at a minimum, of frame and chassis structure, power train, steering system, suspension system, and braking system, to the extent that those systems are to be part of the completed vehicle, that requires further manufacturing operations (other than the addition of readily attachable components such as mirrors or tire and rim assemblies or minor finishing operations, such as painting) to become a completed school bus for use in Illinois. (Based on 49 CFR 568.3)

 

"Integral Type" bus means a completed vehicle either without separate body and chassis or with body and chassis joined into one unit.

 

"m", following a numeral, means either "meter" or "meters".

 

"mm", following a numeral, means either "millimeter" or "millimeters".

 

"Manufacturer" (unless otherwise indicated at the point of use) means the person or organization whose name follows "MANUFACTURED BY" or "MFD BY" on the label required in Section 442.130(b).

 

"Multiple Glazed Unit" means two or more sheets of safety glazing material separated by air spaces and assembled in a common mounting (ANSI Z26.1-1996, no later amendments or editions included).

 

"Passenger" means every bus occupant who is not the driver.

 

"SAE" means the Society of Automotive Engineers (400 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale PA 15096).

 

"School Bus" means:

 

Every motor vehicle, except as provided in this definition, owned or operated by or for any of the following entities for the transportation of persons regularly enrolled as students in grade 12 or below in connection with any activity of such entity:

 

Any public or private primary or secondary school;

 

Any primary or secondary school operated by a religious institution; or

 

Any public, private or religious nursery school.

 

This definition shall not include the following:

 

A bus operated by a public utility, municipal corporation or common carrier authorized to conduct local or interurban transportation of passengers when such bus is not traveling a specific school bus route but is:

 

On a regularly scheduled route for the transportation of other fare paying passengers;

 

Furnishing charter service for the transportation of groups on field trips or other special trips or in connection with other special events; or

 

Being used for shuttle service between attendance centers or other educational facilities.

 

A motor vehicle of the first division.

 

A motor vehicle designed for the transportation of not less than 7 nor more than 16 persons that is operated by or for a public or private primary or secondary school, including any primary or secondary school operated by a religious institution, for the purpose of transporting not more than 15 students to and from interscholastic athletic or other interscholastic or school sponsored activities. (Section 1-182 of the Code)

 

"SI" means Systeme International d'Unites (International System of Units); officially abbreviated SI in all languages; the modernized metric system defined in ANSI IEEE-ASTM-SI-10-1997.

 

The symbol " following a numeral means either "inch" or "inches".

 

"Type I School Bus" means a school bus with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds. (Section 1-213.4 of the Code)

 

"Type I-A School Bus" means a term commonly used by school bus manufacturers to classify a certain type of school bus that is a conversion or body constructed upon a van-type or cutaway front-section vehicle with a left side driver's door, designed for carrying more than 10 persons.  The Type I-A school bus has a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds.

 

"Type II School Bus" means a school bus with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less. (Section 1-213.5 of the Code)

 

(Source:  Amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 18305, effective November 14, 2008)

 

Section 442.130  Incorporation by Reference and Certification

 

a)         Each bus body and chassis must conform to the applicable provisions of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) (49 CFR 571.1 through 571.404).  Those applicable provisions of the FMVSS are incorporated by reference as that part of the FMVSS was in effect on October 1, 2007.  No later amendments to or editions of 49 CFR 571 are incorporated.

 

b)         Each bus body and chassis must conform to the applicable provisions of 49 CFR 567, Certification, and 49 CFR 568, Vehicles Manufactured in Two or More Stages, that were in effect on the first day of the month in which the chassis manufacturer completed his last manufacturing operation on the incomplete bus.  Those applicable provisions are incorporated by reference as they were in effect on October 1, 2007.  No later amendments to or editions of 49 CFR 567 and 49 CFR 568 are incorporated.

 

c)         Each school bus must conform to the applicable Standards and Recommended Practices of the Society of Automotive Engineers Handbook.  Those applicable provisions of the SAE Standards and Recommended Practices are incorporated by reference as of the 2005 edition date.  No later amendments to or editions of the SAE Standards and Recommended Practices are incorporated.

 

d)         Copies of the above materials incorporated by reference are available for inspection at the Division of Traffic Safety, 3215 Executive Park Drive, 3^rd Floor, Springfield, Illinois 62703 or by calling (217)785-1181.  The federal standards are available on the National Archives and Records Administration's website at http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov.  The Division of Traffic Safety's rules are available on the Department's website at http://www.dot.il.gov/safety.html.

 

(Source:  Amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 18305, effective November 14, 2008)

SUBPART B: CONSTRUCTION OF BODY

 

Section 442.205  Aisle

 

a)         Minimum clearance of all aisles, including the aisle (or passageway) leading to an emergency door in the rear, shall be 12 inches.

 

b)         A dedicated aisle which conforms to 49 CFR 571.217 may be adjacent to any side emergency door.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.208  Barriers, Guard

 

a)         A restraining guard barrier shall be installed in front of the right and left front passenger seats.  Barriers shall be constructed to guard passengers from being thrown into the stairwell, dash, windshield, or driver's compartment.  Barriers shall be padded to give knee and head impact protection.  Barriers shall conform to S5.2 through S5.2.3 of FMVSS 222.  (See 92 Ill. Adm. Code 444 for exceptions for special education school buses.)

 

b)         The vertical distance from the floor covering to the top of a barrier positioned in front of a student's seat shall measure not less than the vertical distance from the floor covering to the top of the seat back on the seat back installed behind that barrier.

 

(Source:  Amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 18305, effective November 14, 2008)

 

Section 442.210  Body Structure and Mounting

 

a)         See applicable provisions of the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.100 through 571.304).

 

b)         Insulating material shall be placed at all mounting points between the body and chassis frame.  This material shall be at least 5 mm (.2") thick, may have the quality of the sidewall of an automobile tire, and shall be so secured that it will not move, vibrate, or "crawl" out of place during normal operations.

 

c)         The body front shall be attached and sealed to the chassis cowl so as to prevent the entry of water, dust, or fumes through the joint between the chassis cowl and the body.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.213  Bumper, Rear

 

a)         The entire rear bumper must be of metal construction unless an energy absorbing bumper is used.

 

b)         The rear bumper must meet chassis or body manufacturer's standards.

 

c)         The rear bumper shall be shielded between the body and the bumper to prevent hitching or "riding on."

 

            AGENCY NOTE:  See Section 442.420 for front bumper requirements.

 

(Source:  Added at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.214  Capacity, Passenger

 

a)         The vehicle maximum passenger capacity recommended by the manufacturer of the bus shall be based upon a provision for 13 inches of seating space for each passenger, exclusive of the driver. (Section 12-802 of the Code) Examples:  A seat 990 mm (39") in width provides 3 passenger spaces; a seat 985 mm (38.8") in width provides 2 passenger spaces; a device resembling a seat but less than 330 mm (13") in width would not provide a passenger space.

 

b)         Neither a space not conforming to the FMVSS 222 nor the driver's space shall be counted as a passenger space.  However, any space used for transporting an orthopedically challenged passenger shall be counted as a passenger space when computing passenger capacity to be displayed on the exterior of the bus as required in Section 442.250(g).  (See 92 Ill. Adm. Code 444, Minimum Safety Standards for Construction of School Buses used in Special Education Transportation.)

 

(Source:  Added at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.215  Ceiling and Side Walls

 

a)         The ceiling and side walls shall be thermally insulated with a fire-resistant material approved by the Underwriter's Laboratories, Inc., which shall also adequately reduce the noise level and vibrations.

 

b)         The interior of the bus shall be free of all unnecessary projections likely to cause injury.  Additional projections (e.g., external speakers, air conditioners) located within 59 inches from the floor shall be padded to prevent injury.  This includes inner lining of ceiling and walls.  Installation of book racks is not permissible.  Interior paneling is required on the ceiling and walls. Paneling shall be of steel or other suitable material of equivalent strength and durability, applied in such a manner as to present a clean, smooth and safe interior.  Exposed edges of lapped joints shall be beaded, flanged or otherwise treated and connected to reduce the likelihood of injury from exposed edges.

 

c)         Interior height shall be a minimum of 60 inches, measured from the floor to ceiling at any point on the longitudinal center line from the front vertical bow to the rear vertical bow.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.216  Child Check System (Optional)

 

If a mechanical or electronic child check system is installed, the system must illuminate the interior lights on the bus when the ignition is turned off. (See P.A. 95-0260, effective August 17, 2007.)

 

(Source:  Added at 32 Ill. Reg. 18305, effective November 14, 2008)

 

Section 442.218  Crossing Control Arm

 

a)         Must meet or exceed the wiring requirements of SAE Recommended Practice J1133.

 

b)         Must be capable of full operation between, and including, the temperatures -40 degrees F and 160 degrees F.

 

c)         The arm, when activated, must extend a minimum of five feet from the front face of the bumper.

 

d)         The arm must be mounted on the far right side (entry side) of the front bumper.

 

e)         Appropriate brackets shall be used to attach the arm to the front bumper for proper operation and storage.

 

f)         All component parts must meet or exceed any applicable FMVSS in effect at the time of manufacture.

 

g)         The arm must extend at the same time the stop arm panel extends.  An independent "on/off" switch is prohibited.

 

h)         If the driver can stop the arm from extending with the use of an optional override switch, the arm sequence must automatically reset once the service door is closed.

 

i)          Red lights and/or red reflectors are prohibited.

 

(Source:  Amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 18305, effective November 14, 2008)

 

Section 442.220  Defrosters

 

Defrosting equipment shall be installed so as to help keep the window to the left of the driver and the glass in the service door clear of fog or frost. This defrosting equipment shall conform to those FMVSS 103 (49 CFR 571.103) performance requirements that are applicable to school bus windshields.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.225  Doors (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.230  Emergency Exits and Door Alarms

 

a)         Each emergency exit shall be equipped with an interior opening device which may be quickly released but which is designed to offer protection against accidental release. Each exterior release handle must be nonhitchable.

 

AGENCY NOTE:  "Nonhitchable" is defined as the rear of the bus being designed and maintained to prevent or discourage riding or grasping the rear of the bus so as to "hitch" rides.

 

b)         All emergency exits shall conform to the applicable requirements of the FMVSS 217 (49 CFR 571.217).

 

1)         Each opening for a required emergency exit window or door must be outlined around its exterior perimeter with, at a minimum, 1 inch (2.54 cm) wide yellow retroreflective tape.  All retroreflective tape must be on the exterior surface of the bus and conform to all requirements of 49 CFR 571.217. Emergency roof exits may be outlined in either yellow or white retroreflective tape.  Yellow retroreflective tape can be located on the rear bumper or rub rail provided the space under the emergency exit door or emergency exit window is not adequate to accommodate the tape or provided rivets are present that prohibit the tape from being applied properly.

 

2)         Both audible and visible alarms shall alert the driver when the engine is running and any emergency exit door either:

 

A)        Is not fully latched, or

 

B)        Is locked and not readily operated manually.

 

3)         An audible alarm shall alert the driver when the engine is running and any emergency exit window either:

 

A)        Is not fully latched, or

 

B)        Is locked and not readily operated manually.

 

4)         The engine starting system shall not operate while any emergency exit door or window (optional or required) is locked from either inside or outside the bus. "Locked" means that the release mechanism cannot be activated and the exit cannot be opened by a person at the exit without a special device such as a key or special information such as a combination.

 

5)         An alarm cut-off or "squelch" control is prohibited.

 

6)         Exception:  No alarm is required for roof hatches.

 

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)

 

Section 442.235  Floor Covering

 

a)         Plywood or equivalent material may be applied over the existing steel floor and securely fastened – shall be applied if specified by the purchaser. If applied, plywood shall be at least ½" exterior BB grade.

 

b)         All portions of the floor that come in contact with passengers' or driver's footwear shall be covered with a waterproof material.  This floor covering shall not crack when subjected to sudden temperature change and shall be bonded securely to the floor with a waterproof substance.  All seams and openings shall be filled with a waterproof sealer.

 

c)         The floor covering in the aisles and entrance area shall be of non-skid, wear-resistance type material commonly used in commercial passenger transportation vehicles.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.240  Glazing Materials

 

a)         All glazing in the rear of a school bus, including the door, shall be the fixed type.

 

b)         Laminated safety glass is optional.  All applicable provisions of the FMVSS 205 (49 CFR 205) apply to the optional laminated safety glass and also to any plastic materials used in multiple-glazed unit, including meeting the pertinent tests indicated below, that are specified in ANSI Standard Z26.1-1996 or Z26.1a-1996 and are grouped in Table No. 1 of that Standard. Glazing shall be identified as shown below.

 

Glazing installed in:	Shall meet tests grouped in Z26.1 Table No. 1 under:	Shall bear one of the following identification markings:
Windshield	Item 1, either laminated glass or multiple glazed unit	AS 1 Glass
Window or door forward of rearmost location of driver's seat back		AS 1 Glass or AS 2 Glass
All Other locations		AS 1 Glass, AS 2 Glass or AS 3 Glass

 

c)         In addition, any exposed plastic layer of a multiple glazed unit shall be identified in conformance with the FMVSS 205 (49 CFR 571.205).

 

d)         All glazing shall be installed so the identification markings are legible.

 

            AGENCY NOTE:  See Section 442.310, Window Openings, for window operation requirements.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.245  Heaters

 

a)         An inside temperature of not less than 50 degrees Fahrenheit at average minimum January temperature as established by the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Weather Service Office, for the area in which the vehicle is to be operated shall be maintained throughout the bus.

 

b)         The primary heater shall be a high output, fresh air type.

 

c)         The secondary heater may be recirculating type, and located so as not to interfere with aisle space. Each secondary heater shall display a nameplate that identifies the manufacturer and the heater capacity rating.

 

d)         The heater hoses shall be adequately supported to guard against excessive wear due to vibration and shall not interfere with or restrict the operation of any engine function.  Any hose in the passenger compartment shall be adequately protected to prevent injury from burns in the event of rupture.

 

e)         Auxiliary fuel-fired heating systems are permitted provided they comply with the following:

 

1)         The auxiliary heating system fuel shall utilize the same type of fuel as specified for the vehicle engine;

 

2)         The heater or heaters may be direct hot air or connected to the engine's coolant system;

 

3)         An auxiliary heating system, when connected to the engine's coolant system, may be used to preheat the engine coolant or preheat and add supplementary heat to the bus' heating system;

 

4)         Auxiliary heating systems must be installed pursuant to the manufacturer's recommendations and shall not direct exhaust in a manner that will endanger bus passengers (e.g., under windows);

 

5)         Auxiliary heating systems that operate on diesel fuel shall be capable of operating on:

 

A)        a hot water and/or combustion type heater; or

 

B)        if only one heater is used, a fresh-air or combination fresh-air and recirculation type heater; or

 

C)        blended diesel fuel without the need for system adjustment.

 

6)         The auxiliary heating system shall be low voltage.

 

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)

 

Section 442.250  Identification/Lettering

 

a)         Except where otherwise required or allowed, lettering on the exterior of the body shall be black against a national school bus glossy yellow background. All required letters and numerals shall conform to Series "B", or heavier series, of the Standard Alphabets for Highway Signs issued by the Federal Highway Administration, Washington, D.C. 20591.  Decals may be used instead of paint.  Signs, numbers, or lettering, other than those either required by Section 12-802 of the Code or this Part shall not be affixed permanently on either the exterior or interior of the bus.  Interior lettering shall contrast with its background.

 

b)         The words "SCHOOL BUS" shall be displayed against a national school bus glossy yellow background as high as practical and approximately centered on the front and rear of the bus body, in letters at least 200 mm (8") high (see Section 12-802 of the Code).  These words may be painted on or applied to the bus body or displayed on a sign firmly attached to or built into the body.  The background of an illuminated sign shall approximate the national school bus glossy yellow color as closely as feasible.

 

c)         A school bus identification number, supplied by the purchaser, shall be displayed as high as practical on the front and rear of the bus in numerals not less than 100 mm (4") high.  Such number may be displayed on the sides of the bus as specified by the purchaser.  As an option, identification numbers may be located on the rooftop.

 

d)         Either the owner's name or the school district number or both must be displayed on both sides of the bus at least four inches high, approximately centered and as high as practicable below the window line. (See Section 12-802 of the Code.) The lettering must be located on one line.

 

e)         The body and/or chassis manufacturer's name, emblem, or other identification may be displayed, colorless or in any color, on any unglazed surface of the bus so as not to be mistaken for the name required in subsection (d) of this Section, and so as not to interfere with any required letters or numerals.

 

f)         The words "EMPTY WEIGHT", or the abbreviation "EMPTY WT.", or the letters "E.W.", followed by the empty weight of the bus (see Section 442.120), stated in pounds, shall be displayed on the exterior of the body near the rear edge of the service entrance in numerals and letters at least 50 mm (2") high (see Section 12-802 of the Code).

 

Examples:

EMPTY WEIGHT

16,800 lb

E.W. 16,800 lb

 

g)         The word "CAPACITY", or the abbreviation "CAP.", and the rated passenger capacity, as described in Section 442.214, followed by the word "PASSENGERS", or the abbreviation "PASS.", shall be displayed on the exterior of the body near the rear edge of the service entranceway, and on the interior above the right portion of the windshield, in numerals and letters at least 50 mm (2") high (see Section 12-802 of the Code).

 

h)         The words "NO STANDEES" shall be displayed only on the interior above the windshield, approximately opposite the aisle but to the right of the mirror and sun visor, in letters at least 50 mm (2") high.

 

i)          The words "EMERGENCY DOOR" or "EMERGENCY EXIT" in letters at least 5 cm (2") high must be displayed on the interior and exterior of the bus. "EMERGENCY DOOR" must be displayed at the top of, or directly above, any emergency exit door.  "EMERGENCY EXIT" must be displayed at the top of, or directly above, or at the bottom of, any emergency exit window.  They may be displayed on a separate colorless background (such as white, aluminum, or silver) that extends no more than 15 mm (.6") above or below the words and no more than 25 mm (1") to the right or left of the words.

 

j)          A black arrow, curved or straight, at least 150 mm (5.9") in length and 15 mm (.6") in width, showing the direction each exterior emergency exit release mechanism is to be moved to open the emergency exit, shall be painted or permanently affixed on the exterior yellow portion of the bus within 150 mm (5.9") of each release mechanism.

 

k)         An arrow showing the direction each interior emergency exit release mechanism is to be moved to open the emergency exit shall be painted or permanently affixed on the interior of the bus within 150 mm (5.9") of each emergency exit release mechanism.  Each interior arrow shall contrast with its background and, where suitable space is limited, may be smaller than the exterior arrow(s) but must be conspicuous.

 

l)          Alternate Fuel

 

1)         If the bus uses alternate fuel (e.g., propane, CNG), the vehicle must be marked with an identifying decal.  Such decal shall be diamond shaped with white or silver scotchlite letters one inch in height and a stroke of the brush at least ¼ inch wide on a black background with a white or silver scotchlite border bearing either the words or letters:

 

            "PROPANE" = If propelled by liquefied petroleum gas other than liquefied natural gas; or

 

            "CNG" = If propelled by compressed natural gas.  The sign or decal shall be maintained in good legible condition.

 

2)         The alternate fuel decal shall be displayed near the rear bumper and visible from the rear of the vehicle. (Section 12-704.3 of the Code)

 

m)        The vehicle's length (rounded up to nearest whole foot) must be displayed on or adjacent to the interior bulkhead clearly within the driver's view. (For example:  vehicle length of 39.1 feet will be displayed as 40 feet.) Each letter or numeral must be at least two inches high and black in color. The measurement must be taken from the front bumper to the rear bumper.

 

n)         A "Stop Line" in contrasting color is required between 5.9 and 6.1 inches below the top of each side window opening.  The line shall be located between each window that slides downward.

 

o)         The decal described in this subsection (o) is required to be displayed on every school bus registered in Illinois.  The school bus manufacturer may elect to apply the decal at the time the school bus is manufactured or the decal may be applied by the school bus owner after the school bus is purchased.  A white decal with black lettering and numerals that measure one inch high must be displayed on the rear of the bus.  The decal must display the words TO REPORT ERRATIC DRIVING followed by the area code and phone number of the bus owner.  The decal shall be located on the rear window glazing below the rear seat back, on the bus body below the window line, or on the rear bumper.  The decal must be visible to the motoring public from the rear of the bus and cannot obstruct any required lettering or numerals.  The decal cannot be located on any emergency door glazing or any emergency window glazing.  Magnetic signs are not allowed.  (See P.A. 95-0176, effective January 1, 2008.)

 

p)         The decals described in this subsection (p) are required to be displayed on every school bus registered in Illinois if an audio and/or visual recording will be made of the interior of the school bus.  The school bus manufacturer may elect to apply the decals at the time the school bus is manufactured or the decals may be applied by the school bus owner after the school bus is purchased.  Two white decals with black lettering measuring one inch high shall be displayed, one on the exterior of the service (e.g., entrance) door or on the bus body adjacent to the service door if the door is not adequate to accommodate the decal and a second on the front interior bulkhead.  The decals shall serve as a notice of audio and/or visual recordings.  The exterior decal must not be located on any service door glazing and the interior decal must not obstruct any other required lettering on the bulkhead.  Magnetic signs are not allowed.  (See P.A. 95-0352, effective August 23, 2007.)

 

(Source:  Amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 18305, effective November 14, 2008)

 

Section 442.253  Metal Treatment

 

a)         Unless excluded by this subsection, all steel or iron used in construction of the bus body and attached equipment shall be either resistant to atmospheric corrosion, or zinc coated, or treated by equivalent process.  Particular attention shall be given to each fastener or attaching device, lapped surface, welded connection or fastening, cut edge, punched or drilled hole, surface subjected to abrasion, closed or box section, and any unvented or undrained area or space.  The number of unvented or undrained areas or spaces is to be minimized. Excluded are door handles, grab handles, and interior decorative parts.

 

b)         As evidence that above requirements have been met, a sample of fastener, material, or section of body, coated or finished as installed in the bus, when subjected to a 1,000-hour salt spray test in accordance with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard B-117-1997 "Method of Salt Spray (Fog) Testing" shall not exhibit more than 10 percent reduction in weight after all adherent corrosion products are removed.

 

(Source:  Added at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.255  Mirrors

 

a)         Interior Mirror – A mirror shall be located inside the bus.  It shall be firmly supported, constructed of clear view safety glass and securely backed and framed.  It shall have rounded corners.  Edges shall be padded to reduce danger of injury upon impact.  The mirror shall afford the operator a good view of the bus interior and portions of the roadway to the rear.

 

b)         All exterior mirror systems shall conform to the applicable requirements of the FMVSS 111 (49 CFR 571.111).

 

c)         More convex mirrors than required above may be installed, if specified by the purchaser.

 

d)         The reflecting surface on the backside of each mirror glass shall be protected from abrasion, scratching, and atmospheric corrosion.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.258  Paint/Color Requirements

 

a)         The exterior of each school bus shall be national school bus glossy yellow except as indicated in subsections (b) through (i) of this Section.

 

b)         The rooftop may be white.  Optional white roof shall terminate at any point from top of drip rail to 6" above drip rail.  The front and rear roof caps shall remain national school bus glossy yellow.

 

c)         Body trim, rub rails, and lettering other than on a stop signal arm shall be glossy black. Bumpers may be glossy black or a bright, light or colorless finish.

 

d)         Lettering on a stop signal arm shall be white on a red background.

 

e)         The hood and upper cowl may be lusterless black or lusterless school bus yellow.

 

f)         Grilles on the front, lamp trim and hubcaps may be a bright finish. Wheels and rims may be black, gray, or manufacturer's colors.

 

g)         The name or emblem of a manufacturer may be colorless or any color.

 

h)         The exterior paint of any school bus shall match the central value, hue and chroma set forth in this Part. (Section 12-801 of the Code)

 

i)          Each opening for a required emergency exit window or door must be outlined around its outside perimeter with a minimum 1 inch (2.54 cm) wide yellow retroreflective tape.  All retroreflective tape must be on the exterior surface of the bus and conform to all requirements of 49 CFR 571.217.  Yellow retroreflective tape can be located on the rear bumper or rub rail provided the space under the emergency exit door or emergency exit window is not adequate to accommodate the tape or provided rivets are present that prohibit the tape from being applied properly.  Emergency roof exits may be outlined in either yellow or white retroreflective tape.

 

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)

 

Section 442.259  Rack, Book/Luggage

 

Book/luggage racks are not allowed.

 

(Source:  Added at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.260  Rub Rails

 

a)         There shall be one rub rail located approximately at seat level which shall extend from the rear of the entrance door on both sides to a point of curvature at the rear of the body.

 

b)         Rub rails shall be constructed of 16-gauge longitudinally corrugated or ribbed steel, ventilated, four inches minimum width, and securely fastened to the body by bolts, rivets, or welding.

 

(Source:  Amended at 12 Ill. Reg. 4220, effective February 9, 1988)

 

Section 442.265  Seat Belts, Driver's and Passengers'

 

a)         See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.209 and 210).

 

b)         The driver's seat belt assembly shall be arranged so that all portions of the assembly remain above the floor when not in use.

 

c)         If a retractor or retractors are installed, they shall be the emergency locking type.

 

d)         The driver's seat must be equipped with a lap belt/shoulder harness design.

 

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)

 

Section 442.270  Seating

 

a)         No bus shall be equipped with "jump" or portable seats (this does not include child restraint systems).

 

b)         The driver's seat shall be rigidly positioned and have a fore-and-aft adjustment without the use of tools or other nonattached devices.

 

c)         A flip-up seat for passengers may be located only immediately adjacent to any side emergency door.  The flip-up seat must conform to the following:

 

1)         The seat must be designed so that, when in the folded position, the seat cushion is flat against the seat back to prevent a child's limb from becoming lodged between the seat cushion and seat back.

 

2)         The seat must be designed to discourage a child from standing on the seat cushion when in the folded position.

 

3)         The working mechanism under the seat must be covered to eliminate any tripping hazard.

 

4)         All sharp metal edges on the seat must be padded to prevent any snagging hazard.

 

5)         No portion of the door latch mechanism can be obstructed by a seat.

 

6)         There must be at least 11.7 inches (30 cm) measured from the door opening to the seat back in front.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.275  Service Entrance and Door

 

a)         The service entrance shall be located on the right side near the front, in unobstructed and convenient view of the driver.  The service entrance shall have a minimum vertical opening of 1.7 m (67") and a minimum horizontal opening of 610 mm (24").

 

b)         The service entrance steps shall be designed so that the first step shall not be more than 13½" off the ground.  If necessary, a step of adequate width and length shall be installed to meet this requirement. Provision shall be made to prevent road splash from the wheel from accumulating on the step if installed outside the body.

 

c)         The service door shall be either manually or power operated by the seated driver.  When in the closed and secured position, the door operating mechanism shall prevent accidental opening but shall afford prompt release and opening by the driver.  No exposed parts of a door operating mechanism shall come together so as to shear or crush finger(s).  The vertical closing edge(s) of a service door shall be padded to lessen chance of injury.

 

d)         A power operated door shall be equipped for emergency manual operation in case of power failure.  Instructions for emergency operation of a power operated door shall be affixed permanently on the interior of the door in letters at least 12 mm (.5") high.

 

e)         A single-section service door shall be hinged at the front of the service entrance.

 

f)         Glazed panels shall be installed in the service door to afford the driver a view of small children outside the door, traffic signs, and intersecting roadways.  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 each upper glass panel shall not be more than 3 inches from the top of the door.

 

g)         Service Door Lock (Optional).  If ordered by the purchaser, a lock may be installed on or at the service door.  Any type service door locking system installed in the bus shall conform to at least one of the following requirements.

 

1)         Requirement 1:  A locking system shall not be capable of preventing the driver from easily and quickly opening the service door; or

 

2)         Requirement 2:  A locking system that is capable of preventing the driver from easily and quickly opening the service door shall include an audible and visible alarm to alert the driver when the engine is running and the service door is locked.  No alarm disconnect, "squelch control", or other alarm defeating or attenuating device shall be installed; or

 

3)         Requirement 3:  A locking system shall not be capable of preventing the driver from easily and quickly opening the service door except when, and only when, a person outside the bus uses a key that is not capable of locking more than one of at least 1000 of the door manufacturer's key locking systems.

 

h)         A grab handle of steel, as long as practicable, shall be solidly attached to the left of any person entering the school bus.  Forward handrails are prohibited, except when required by 92 Ill. Adm. Code 444 (Minimum Safety Standards for Construction of School Buses used in Special Education Transportation).  An optional grab handle can also be located on the right side of the entranceway.

 

(Source:  Amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 18305, effective November 14, 2008)

 

Section 442.280  Stanchion Guard Panel or Barrier Guard (Repealed)

 

                                                                                                                                     

            (Source:  Repealed at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)

 

Section 442.285  Stop Signal Arm Panel

 

a)         A stop signal arm panel must be installed on the left side of the bus that conforms to 49 CFR 571.131.    Decals may be used in lieu of painting.  Strobe lamps are acceptable on stop signal arm panels.  See Appendix E for example.

 

           

b)         Additional stop signal arm panels may be added at the purchaser's request.  Additional panels must be located on the left side of the bus. Additional panels must operate in conjunction with the required panel and meet all stop arm panel requirements except as follows.  The additional panel must not contain any marking or reflective material on the front side of the panel.  The additional panel must be located in the rear half of the bus adjacent to the rearmost window.

 

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)

 

Section 442.290  Tool Compartment (Purchaser's Option)

 

a)         A fire-resistant container of adequate strength and capacity for storage of tools, chains, curriculum equipment, activity equipment, etc., may be installed.  If installed, the container shall provide reasonable security for its contents and shall be securely fastened to prevent the container or its contents from becoming accidentally dislodged.

 

b)         If the storage container is not installed and tools, equipment, etc., are carried, each such item must be secured to prevent its becoming dislodged and causing injury to passengers.

 

Section 442.295  Sun Visor

 

a)         The driver's side shall be equipped with an interior adjustable sun visor with a minimum size of 5" X 16".

 

b)         No sun visor shall interfere with the operator's full view of the rearview mirror(s).

 

c)         A sun visor on the right passenger side is optional.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.300  Undercoating

 

The underside of the body, including floor members and the side panels below the floor, shall be coated with a fire-resistant undercoating material applied by the spray method so as to seal, insulate, reduce corrosion, and reduce interior noise.  Non-metallic components need not be coated.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.305  Ventilation

 

The body shall be equipped with a suitable controlled ventilation system of sufficient capacity to maintain a satisfactory ratio of outside to inside air under operating conditions without opening of windows except in warm weather.

 

Section 442.310  Window Openings

 

This Section does not apply to a window or glazed panel installed forward of a front passenger seat, and is optional for a window installed either beside a rear passenger seat or a special service door or in a side emergency exit.

 

a)         All side windows shall open from the top only and shall operate freely.

 

b)         There shall be one vertical opening side window for each seat.

 

c)         Each side window shall provide an unobstructed emergency egress opening at least 9 inches high and 22 inches wide. The opening may extend to 18 inches above the unoccupied passenger seat cushion but no closer (to the seat cushion).

 

d)         A stop line for the window opening shall be applied six inches from the top of the window opening.

 

e)         The side windows may be split sash.

 

f)         The window latches shall be recessed.

 

AGENCY NOTE:  See Section 442.240 for glazing material requirements.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.315  Windshield

 

See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.104).

The windshield may be tinted and may have a "shade band".

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.320  Windshield Wipers

 

See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.104).

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.325  Windshield Washer

 

See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.104).

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

SUBPART C: CHASSIS REQUIREMENTS

 

Section 442.405  Air Cleaner

 

The bus shall be equipped with an adequate oil bath, dry element, or equivalent type air cleaner.

 

Section 442.410  Axles

 

a)         Must meet federal chassis requirements as indicated on the federal certification label as required by 49 CFR 567 (Certification) and 49 CFR 568 (Vehicles Manufactured in Two or More Stages).

 

b)         Wheel base shall not be less than 123 inches.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.415  Brakes

 

See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.105).

Power brakes are required.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.420  Bumper, Front

 

a)         The front bumper shall meet the chassis manufacturer's standards.

b)         The entire front bumper must be of metal construction unless an energy absorbing bumper is used.

 

            AGENCY NOTE:  See Section 442.213 for rear bumper requirements.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.425  Drive Shaft Guard

 

Each segment of the drive shaft shall be equipped with a suitable guard to prevent accident or injury in the event of its fracture or disconnection.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.430  Engine

 

Type and displacement may be specified by the purchaser.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.435  Exhaust System and Muffler

 

a)         The exhaust pipe, muffler and tail pipe shall be outside the bus body and attached to the chassis.

 

AGENCY NOTE:  As mandated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), diesel-powered engines manufactured after December 31, 2006 are required to meet stricter standards that will reduce emissions of particulate matter and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere.  School bus manufacturers may be required to modify exhaust systems to meet the USEPA requirements, e.g., mufflers may be replaced with after-treatment devices that significantly reduce toxins released into the atmosphere.  Modifications to exhaust systems made in compliance with the USEPA requirements are acceptable provided they do not impact the safe operation of the school bus.

 

b)         The exhaust system shall be insulated from any insulated wire, flammable material, brake hose or line, or fuel system component by a securely attached metal shield at any point where the exhaust system is 11.8 inches (300 mm) or less (four inches (101.6 mm) or less if diesel powered engine) from the components listed in this subsection.

 

c)         The tail pipe may meet the chassis manufacturer's standard configuration.  However, the tail pipe shall not exit beneath any fuel filler location or beneath any emergency exit door.

 

d)         The tail pipe shall extend out to, but not more than, 1 inch (25.4 mm) beyond the perimeter of the body or the bumper.

 

e)         The shielding of engine compartment components shall be governed by the chassis manufacturer's standards.

 

f)         Each gas conducting component that is not of stainless steel shall be of commercial heat and corrosion resistant exhaust system material and shall be nonflexible.

 

(Source:  Amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 18305, effective November 14, 2008)

 

Section 442.440  Frame

 

After the date of manufacture of the incomplete vehicle, the chassis frame shall not be altered so as to extend the wheelbase.  Other extension(s) of the chassis frame may be accomplished only by the incomplete vehicle, intermediate, or final-stage manufacturer or by an agent of the manufacturer properly instructed and authorized by the manufacturer to make the extension(s).

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.445  Fuel Tank

 

a)         See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.301).

 

b)         The fuel tank shall have a minimum capacity of 24 gallons.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.450  Heater Connections

 

Each heater installation shall include two shut off valves as close to the engine inlet and outlet connections as practicable.

 

Section 442.455  Horn

 

The bus shall be equipped with at least one horn capable of emitting sound audible under normal conditions from a distance of not less than 200 feet.  (Section 12-601 of the Code)  The horn shall be conveniently controlled from the operator’s position and tested in accordance with SAE Standard J377.

 

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)

 

Section 442.460  Ignition Lock

 

A key type lock or other device shall be provided to prevent the vehicle from being set in motion or its engine started by unauthorized persons.

 

Section 442.465  Instruments

 

The bus shall be equipped with the following nonglare illuminated instruments and gauges mounted for easy maintenance and repair and in such a manner that each is clearly visible to the seated operator.  An indicator light in lieu of a pressure or temperature gauge is permissible.

 

a)         Speedometer

 

b)         Odometer

 

c)         Fuel Gauge

 

d)         Oil Pressure Gauge

 

e)         Water Temperature Gauge

 

f)         Ampere Meter or Volt Meter with graduated charge and discharge indications

 

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)

 

Section 442.470  Oil Filter

 

An oil filter of replaceable element type or cartridge type or disposable type shall be provided.  The oil filter shall have an oil capacity of at least one quart.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.475  Shock Absorbers

 

Two front and two rear heavy-duty double-acting shock absorbers or equivalent damping devices shall be provided.

 

Section 442.480  Springs and Suspension

 

Each spring and other component in any of the suspension systems shall be capable of supporting its share of the rated gross axle weight during normal operations.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.485  Steering Mechanism

 

a)         The steering gear shall provide safe and accurate performance at maximum load and speed and shall be easily adjusted.  Only changes approved by the chassis manufacturer shall be permitted.

 

b)         Power steering is the purchaser's option.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.490  Tires and Wheels

 

a)         See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.120).

 

b)         Wheels and rims may be black, gray or manufacturer's colors.

 

c)         A spare tire is the purchaser's option.  If the spare tire is carried inside it shall be securely mounted so that it in no way interferes with the passenger seating accommodations, the emergency door operations or aisle space.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.495  Transmissions

 

a)         A manual shift transmission shall be fully synchronized in all forward gears.  It shall provide for at least three forward and one reverse speeds.

 

b)         An automatic transmission is the purchaser's option.

SUBPART D: ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS REQUIREMENTS

 

Section 442.605  Battery and Battery Compartment

 

a)         The storage battery shall be a nominal 12-volt type.  It shall be of sufficient capacity to supply all electrical requirements but shall be rated, as specified in SAE Standard J537, not less than either 70-ampere hours at the 20-hour discharge rate or 105-minutes at the 25-ampere discharge rate.

 

b)         When the battery is mounted outside the engine compartment, it shall be attached securely in a closed, weather-tight, and vented compartment that is located and arranged so as to provide for convenient routine servicing.  The battery compartment door, or cover, shall be secured by an adequate manually-operated latch or fastener.  Each electrical cable connecting the battery in this compartment to the body or chassis shall be one piece between the battery terminal connector and the first body or chassis terminal connector.

 

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)

 

Section 442.610  Generator or Alternator

 

The generator or alternator with rectifier shall have a maximum output of at least 55-amperes (in accordance with SAE rating) and shall be ventilated and voltage controlled and, if necessary, current controlled and shall be capable of supplying all electrical requirements.  The purchaser should specify a larger generator or alternator if needed under his/her operating conditions.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.615  Lamps, Reflectors, and Signals

 

a)         See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.108).  Light Emitting Diode (LED) lamps that meet applicable FMVSS or SAE Standards or SAE Recommended Practices are acceptable.

 

b)         Alternately Flashing Signal Lamps.  Each bus shall be equipped with an eight lamp alternately flashing signal system that conforms to S5.1.4(b) of the FMVSS 108 (49 CFR 571.108) and Section 12-805 of the Code.  A separate circuit breaker and a master switch shall be provided for this signal system.  When in its "off" position, this master switch shall prevent operation of the eight lamp system; shall prevent operation of any lamps mounted on the stop signal arm panel required under subsection (hh); and shall prevent operation of any electrically controlled mechanism that would cause the stop signal arm panel to extend.  The controls for the eight lamp flashing signals, the stop signal arm panel, and the service entrance door shall be arranged so as to provide for the following sequence of operations while the engine is running:

 

1)         Place the alternately flashing signal system master switch in its "off" position.  Close and secure the service entrance door.  Actuate the alternately flashing signal system hand or foot control. The alternately flashing signal lamps of either yellow (amber) or red color shall not go on.

 

2)         With the master switch "off" and the hand or foot control actuated, open the service door.  The alternately flashing signals of either color shall not go on and the stop signal arm panel shall not extend.

 

3)         Deactivate the hand or foot control.  Place the alternately flashing signal system master switch in its "on" position.  Close and secure the service door.  Then open the service door.  The alternately flashing signal lamps of either color shall not go on and the stop signal arm panel shall not extend.

 

4)         Close and secure the service door.  Actuate the alternately flashing signal system by hand or foot control.  A yellow pilot lamp in the view of the driver and the yellow alternately flashing signals shall go on.

 

5)         Desecure but do not open the service door.  The yellow pilot and the yellow alternately flashing signals shall go off.  A red pilot lamp in the view of the driver and the red alternately flashing signals shall go on.  The stop signal arm panel shall extend.

 

6)         Fully open the service door.  The red pilot and red signals shall remain on and the stop arm shall remain extended.

 

7)         Close but do not secure the service door.  The red pilot and red signals shall remain on and the stop arm shall remain extended.

 

8)         Open the service door.  The red pilot and red signals shall remain on and the stop arm shall remain extended.

 

9)         Close and secure the service door.  The red pilot and red signals shall go off and the stop arm shall retract.

 

10)         Open the service door.  Alternately flashing signals of either color shall not go on and the stop arm shall not extend.

 

c)         Interior Lighting.  A minimum of two interior dome lamps shall be installed to adequately illuminate the entire aisle, the emergency passageway, and the stepwell.  At least the nosings of the service entrance steps and the floor around the stepwell shall be illuminated automatically by opening of the service door.  No lamp shall be installed at or near the eye level of a pupil moving through the service entranceway to the aisle unless such lamp does not shine directly into the eyes of any such pupil.  For buses designed to transport 33 or more passengers, at least two interior illumination lamps shall be installed.

 

d)         Rear Turn Signals.  Yellow turn signal lamps shall be mounted on the rear as far apart as practical and as high as practical but below the rear window.  The effective projected illuminated area of these turn signal lamps shall be no less than required for the yellow alternately flashing signal lamps required under subsection (b) of this Section; i.e., .0122 m² (19 in²).

 

e)         Side Turn Signals.  Two yellow side turn signal lamps conforming to SAE J914 shall be installed on each bus designed to transport 33 or more passengers.  The lamps shall be "armored" and mounted on the body between the rub rails required in Section 442.260.  The right lamp shall be within 1 m (39.4") of the rear of the service entrance. The left lamp shall be approximately the same distance from the front bumper as the right lamp.

 

f)         Stop Signals.  Red stop lamps shall be mounted on the rear as far apart as practical but closer to the vertical centerline of the bus than the rear turn signal lamps required in subsection (d) of this Section, and at the same height as those turn signal lamps.  The effective projected illuminated area of these stop lamps shall be no less than required for the red alternately flashing signal lamps required under subsection (b) of this Section, i.e., .0122 m² (19 in²).

 

g)         Strobe:

 

1)         One per bus;

 

2)         Shall emit white or bluish-white light;

 

3)         Shall be visible from any direction;

 

4)         Shall flash 60 to 120 times per minute;

 

5)         Shall be visible in normal sunlight;

 

6)         Mounted at or behind center of rooftop and equal distance from each side.  Distance from rear will be calculated by measuring height of filament and multiplying same by 30 inches (i.e., filament height measured from the base of the strobe x 30 = distance from rear of bus where lamp is to be located). (Section 12-815 of the Code)

 

7)         If a roof exit, air conditioner, or the size of the bus interferes with the placement of a strobe as required by subsection (g)(6), the strobe can be placed to the rear of the roof exit or air conditioner as near as practicable above the rear axle and horizontally centered between the rear tires.

 

h)         Reflectors.

 

1)         Front:

 

A)        Two yellow rigid or sheet type (tape) front reflex reflectors shall be attached securely and as far forward as practicable. (Section 12-202 of the Code)

 

B)        The front reflectors shall be located between 15 and 60 inches above the roadway at either fender, cowl, or body and installed so as to mark the outer edge of the maximum width of the bus.

 

C)        No part of the required reflecting material may be obscured by a lamp, mirror, bracket, or any other portion of the bus.  No part of the required reflecting material may be more than 11.8 inches (300 mm) inboard of the outer edge of the nearest rub rail (12 inches on a bus with chassis manufactured in March 1977 or earlier).

 

D)        The reflector may be any shape (e.g., square, rectangle, circle, oval, etc.).  A rigid type reflex reflector may be any size if permanently marked either DOT, SAE A, or SAE J 594; otherwise, it shall display at least seven square inches of reflecting material (about 3 inch diameter if a solid circle).

 

E)        A sheet type (tape) reflex reflector may conform to the surface on which it is installed but its forward projected reflecting area shall be at least eight square inches.

 

F)         Exception:  Buses that measure less than 80 inches wide are exempt. (49 CFR 571.108)

 

2)         Left Side:

            One amber no more than 12 inches from the front and one red no more than 12 inches from the rear.  Mounted at a height not less than 15 inches and not more than 60 inches above the surface of the road.  (Section 12-202 of the Code)  On buses 20 feet or more in length, one amber as near center as practicable must also be provided.  Reflectors must measure a minimum three inches in diameter.

 

3)         Right Side:

            One amber no more than 12 inches from the front and one red no more than 12 inches from the rear.  Mounted at a height not less than 15 inches and not more than 60 inches above the surface of the road.  (Section 12-202 of the Code)  On buses 20 feet or more in length, one amber as near center as practicable must also be provided.  Reflectors must measure a minimum three inches in diameter.

 

4)         Rear:

 

A)        Two red reflectors on rear body within 12 inches of lower right and lower left corners.  (Section 12-202 of the Code)  Minimum three inches in diameter.

 

B)        Exception: Buses that measure less than 80 inches wide are exempt.  (49 CFR 571.108)

 

AGENCY NOTE:  See Section 442.258 for retroreflective tape requirements.

 

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)

 

Section 442.620  Wiring

 

a)         See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571).

 

b)         All wiring for lamps and other electrical devices shall be as recommended for automobiles, motor coaches, and heavy duty starting motor circuits in SAE Recommended Practices J1292 and J541a and in other practices or standards referenced in the SAE Recommended Practices, unless specifically preempted by the FMVSS or this Part.

 

c)         Manufacturer's circuit arrangements are acceptable; however, a separate circuit for the alternately flashing signal lamps and stop signal arm lamps shall be installed.

 

d)         Extra fuses for each size of fuse used on the bus may be conveniently mounted on the bus body if specified by the purchaser.

 

e)         A noise suppression switch that is capable of turning off noise producing accessories, including, but not limited to, heater blowers, defroster fans, auxiliary fans and radios, must be present.  (See Section 12-815.2 of the Code.)

 

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)

SUBPART E: EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

 

Section 442.705  Fire Extinguisher (Purchaser's Option)

 

a)         The bus shall be equipped with a dry-chemical gauge-type fire extinguisher, mounted in a bracket of automotive type and located in the driver's compartment in full view of and readily accessible to the driver.

 

b)         The fire extinguisher shall be of a type approved by the Underwriter's Laboratories, Inc., with a rating of not less than 10-BC.  The operating mechanism shall be sealed with a type of seal that will not interfere with the use of the fire extinguisher.  Halon fire extinguishers rated at 10-BC are approved.

 

            Agency Note:  At least one fire extinguisher MUST be carried in each school bus transporting pupils but the purchaser may elect to install his own extinguisher which conforms to this Section after the bus is purchased.

 

(Source:  Amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)

 

Section 442.710  First-Aid Kit  (Purchaser's Option)

 

a)         The bus shall either carry or provide for a first-aid kit, removable and readily identifiable and mounted in full view in an accessible place in the driver's compartment.

 

b)         Contents of Kit:  The kit shall not contain a tourniquet or any type of medicine.  The kit shall contain at least the items specified below, in at least the specified quantities:

 

1)         Unit Type – Minimum Contents

 

A)	4" bandage compress..............................................	* 2 packages
B)	2" bandage compress..............................................	* 2 packages
C)	1" adhesive compress.............................................	1 package
D)	40" triangular bandage with two safety pins..........	1 package
	Wire or wood splint................................................	1 package
	* May be longer or wider

 

AGENCY NOTE:  A first-aid kit must be carried in each school bus transporting pupils but the purchaser may elect to install his own first-aid kit which conforms to this Section.

 

(Source:  Amended at 18 Ill. Reg. 14789, effective September 20, 1994)

 

Section 442.715  Warning Devices (Optional)

 

AGENCY NOTE:  School buses weighing more than 8,000 pounds and operated upon any highway outside an urban district must carry warning devices, but the bus purchaser may elect to install the warning devices after the bus is purchased.

 

a)         The warning devices must be securely stored.  The warning devices required for use when lighted lamps are required (see Section 12-201(b) of the Code) shall consist of:

 

1)         At least three liquid-burning flares and three red-burning 15-minute fusees; or

 

2)         Three red electric lanterns; or

 

3)         Three portable red emergency reflectors that meet FMVSS 125.

 

b)         In addition, the following warning devices are also required for use when lighted lamps are not required (see Section 12-201(b) of the Code):

 

1)         Two red cloth flags (not less than 12 inches square with standards to support flags); or

 

2)         Two portable emergency reflectors that meet FMVSS 125.  (The reflectors in subsection (a)(3) of this Section qualify for this option.)  (See Section 12-702(a) and (c) of the Code.)

 

                       

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 8238, effective May 25, 2007)




Section 442.APPENDIX A   Hexagon Shaped Stop Signal Arm (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)




Section 442.APPENDIX B   Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and Related Rules (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)




Section 442.APPENDIX C   Specification Sheet for Reflective Material -- Encapsulated Lens (Based on FHWA Notice N 5040.17, June 15, 1976) (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 8 Ill. Reg. 15505, effective August 10, 1984)




Section 442.APPENDIX D   Sheeting and Tape, Reflective:  Nonexposed Lens (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002)




Section 442.APPENDIX E  Octagon Shaped Stop Signal Arm

 



 

(Source:  Added at 16 Ill. Reg. 1685, effective January 14, 1992)