Bus Ramps Inspection Bulletin

The CVSA Passenger Carrier Committee (PCC) has been alerted of situations where enforcement inspectors have been injured while inspecting a motorcoach while using bus ramps. The Passenger Carrier Committee reviewed and revised Safety Bulletin 02-04 to include recommendations that all organizations conduct safety risk assessments and update safe procedures for inspections and correct use of ramps, chocks, jack stands, and hazards associated with inspection of vehicles pneumatic ride height adjustment.

The PCC has been alerted of situations where enforcement inspectors have been injured while inspecting a motor coach with an air ride suspension. During the inspection the trail axle of the bus was in the raised position, and unexpectedly dropped. The suspension accessory junction block and the trailing axle air spring dump valve will hold the axle up until the normal air bleed-off occurs, at which point the axle will lower.

To prevent any future incidents, the PCC recommends the re-issuance of CVSA Safety Bulletin 97-4, Bus Inspection Ramp Use Check List, and Safety Bulletin 02-04. The new Inspection Bulletin will supercede Safety Bulletins 97-4 and 02-04.