School bus pre-trip inspection
Bus number
Date
Odometer
Driver
Walk-around (outside the bus)
| Item | OK | Fail |
|---|---|---|
| No fresh leaks under the bus (oil, coolant, fuel, brake fluid) | ||
| Tires: tread depth, inflation, no cuts, bulges or exposed cord | ||
| Wheels and rims: no cracks; lug nuts all present and tight | ||
| Suspension: springs, shocks and mounts not broken or leaking | ||
| Headlights, turn signals, brake lights, clearance and marker lights work | ||
| Eight-light warning system (amber and red flashers) works | ||
| Stop arm extends, lights up and retracts | ||
| Crossing arm extends and retracts | ||
| Mirrors (flat, convex and crossview) clean, secure and adjusted | ||
| Windshield and windows clean and not cracked; wipers work | ||
| Body: no loose panels, sharp edges or new damage | ||
| Emergency exits: rear door, side doors, windows and roof hatches open freely and their alarms sound | ||
| Exhaust system secure, no leaks |
Engine compartment
| Item | OK | Fail |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil level | ||
| Coolant level | ||
| Power steering fluid | ||
| Windshield washer fluid | ||
| Belts: tension, no cracks or fraying | ||
| Hoses: no leaks, cracks or bulges | ||
| Battery secure, terminals clean |
Driver's seat and brakes
| Item | OK | Fail |
|---|---|---|
| Gauges read normal (oil pressure, voltage, temperature, fuel) | ||
| Air brakes: pressure builds in the normal time; leak-down within limits; low-air warning comes on; spring brakes apply | ||
| Hydraulic brakes: pedal firm, no fade | ||
| Parking brake holds the bus | ||
| Service brakes stop the bus straight | ||
| Steering: no excessive play | ||
| Horn works | ||
| Heater and defroster work | ||
| Driver's seat belt works | ||
| Entrance door opens and closes properly | ||
| Interior and step-well lights work |
Passenger area and emergency equipment
| Item | OK | Fail |
|---|---|---|
| Seats secure; no torn cushions or sharp edges | ||
| Aisle and floor clear; no loose items | ||
| Fire extinguisher charged, secured and tagged | ||
| First-aid kit present and stocked | ||
| Body fluid clean-up kit present | ||
| Reflective warning triangles present | ||
| Wheelchair lift and securements (if equipped) work | ||
| Two-way radio or phone works |
Defects found
Driver's signature
Time
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