Month: February 2018

How to Tackle School Bus Transportation During Snowfall

Posted on by TSB Super Admin

Unfavourable weather conditions may adversely affect school transportation. Many cities in the U.S. witness the coldest weather in some of its seasons.

One of the greatest challenges school authorities and parents come across is transporting children safely in this weather condition without making them prone to frostbite or hypothermia.

Children if exposed to cold weathers can easily be victims to the dangerous effects of winter time.

It doesn’t take much time for children to be affected by hypothermia. It takes as little as half an hour to get a frostbite or hypothermia.

For instance children playing outside may be subject to a low temperature which in turn makes their body temperature low, which they might not notice.

Even though spring is within reach, the weather of winter can sometimes be dangerously low in temperature and puts children at the risk of over exposure.

There are certain precautions one needs to take when children are outside for playing or while going to the supermarket with you.

Proper Clothing

Children must be equipped with proper clothing during winter to avoid all kinds of mishaps that happen due to bad weather. They must be made to wear layers of clothing to keep them warm from adverse weather conditions.

You must ensure that they are dry and warm by dressing them up using boots, mittens and hat. It is advisable that you use two pairs of socks and boots that can resist the cold weather.

Children must be made to wear an extra layer of clothing more than an adult wears in the same condition. By allowing skin to skin contact mittens give more warmth than gloves does.

So always choose mittens to gloves. Cotton loses its insulation properties as it holds moisture which makes the child feel even colder. Cottons tends to hold moist air, sweat and snow.  

It is better to use wool instead of cotton. Before making you cold and wet, wool suspends the moisture and can absorb one by third of its weight.

While they stay out longer than that is planned, it is always better to put hand or feet warmers in their bags. You must ensure to let them know that they can use in the event they have to spend time out in the cold.

Also make sure that they drink plenty of water and have substantial meals regularly so that they maintain optimal health and can help them survive the cold weather. Proper dressing and good food can help children to survive the cold weather.

This is essential to ensure the safety of your child during adverse weather conditions. Ensure that this is strictly followed to avoid frost bites or hypothermia.

Extra Caution

School buses tend to have more mechanical problems frequently during the winter season. Buses might cool off quickly and might have to make halts in between the journey.

The more the children are exposed to cold weather the more chances they are to get affected by the cold weather. Other than this winter riding can be dangerous for drivers, students and people on the road too.

As there is less traction on the roads, vehicles are prone to more accidents. One of the important things is to prepare drivers to ride on snow, fog, ice and hail. This includes classroom education and behind the wheels exercises.

As a matter of fact experienced drivers should be made to teach less experienced drivers about the skills that are required for driving in winter weather.

Driver can be given a demonstration of how Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) works and how safe it is to ride with one rather than riding without one.

The function of ABS in severe weather, air brake systems and braking techniques are to be given special attention. In some cases transport managers provide alternative routes as weather can be much unpredictable.

Winters may have pocket roads that may not be maintained well and also snow-covered roads, snow drifts, and many more obstacles like going uphill.

If the drivers think it is unsafe to continue, they must pull over and wait for a plow or sand truck. Driver’s need to make sure the bus is warm before they pick up students. Chemicals can be used to treat windows to avoid them from icing up or fogging. Additional fans can be used defrost the windshield apart from regular fans.

School Bus Designs : Why They Remain Unchanged

Posted on by TSB Super Admin

First of all school buses are designed well and serves its purpose. School buses are the primary mode of student transportation in the United States.

Over half the student population in the country rely upon school buses for transportation to school and back to home. It is estimated that over 26 million students travel in school buses.

Transportation wasn’t the same in old times. Some of the first school buses were carriages that were drawn by horses which were called kid hacks or school hacks.

These were made by Wayne works around the year 1886. There were even sledges and farm wagons that were used by students to get to school or sometimes even walk to school through the snow covered lands.

With the popularity of automobiles rising in 1914 the same Wayne works moved on to automobile chassis to help students reach schools faster. With the introduction of these buses students sat on the perimeter of the bus facing towards each other rather that towards the front as they do today.

It was later on that the Blue Bird Company took an effort to create a design for the bus that resembles the buses of today even though they had a long way to go.

Some of you might wonder why the colour of a school bus is yellow. It has been yellow since its inception. This makes it easy to distinguish it from other vehicles on the road. The yellow colour is recorded as Federal Standard No. 595a,

Colour 13432 with both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Buses usually operate in the morning and evening so the colour is better visible during these times.

It is supposed that the colour helps drivers to notice and slow down their vehicles keeping in mind there are children on board.

Why School Bus Design Have Remained Unchanged

School bus designs are made to safeguard the children on board. Parents worry about their child’s safety and the modes of transportation they take to reach school or come back from school.

So there is a genuine need for standardizing the way children travel. The present mode of transportation is satisfactory and safer. School buses are typically safer as they are not driven very fast.

According to the studies by National Academy of Sciences and National Transportation Safety Board school buses have closely spaced seats which are shock absorbent and are able to protect children in case there is an accident.

Little Bit About TrackSchoolBus

Various apps can be used to monitor the daily activities of students, drivers and attendants. These help to know what is happening to your child when he leaves for school and comes back from school.

Parent App – TrackSchoolBus has come up with the parent app so that parents can make use of this app to build a rapport with the drivers. The app lets you get to know when a bus reaches a pick up point or the drop point.

Parents can also monitor the speed of the bus. If the bus is being driven recklessly they are immediately notified regarding this. You can mark a leave for your pupil using this app.

You neither have to call the driver or the school management. With track school bus’s app parents are notified regarding the real-time location of the child and also the route that is followed by the school bus.

Driver Console App – Using the driver app from TrackSchoolBus drivers get to communicate the route taken by them and the number of stops during the trip with parents as well as school management.

This helps them to take the shortest route possible which is beneficial to both the drivers and the school management as this saves a lot of fuel and time. They get to pass information with the transport manager.

Using the driver’s app by Track School Bus, transport managers can give drivers instruction regarding best route that can be taken by looking at the traffic on each road.

School Bus Attendant App – Bus attendants will have an app that has all the student details like pick up and drop points. This helps them to work more efficiently. Another added feature for the TrackSchoolBus app is that the birthdays of the students will be notified to the bus attendants.

With this the attendants can wish the pupil on his birthday which creates a better rapport with the students. They get to know which students have boarded the bus and those who haven’t. Using the Track School Bus App they can contact the parents to check if the students are on leave or if they have failed to board the bus.

School Transport Manager App – In some cases the schools have a transport manager or the school bus contract is given to a third party in which case the fleet is managed by a transport manager.

By using the TrackSchoolBus app, the transport manager can track the school buses from anywhere using the app. The transport manager will be notified regarding route traffic, unfavourable weather conditions, bus break down, or anything that is related to the vehicle status.

Is My School Bus Tracking App Safe to Use

Posted on by TSB Super Admin

Parents are always worried about whether their child has boarded the bus from their pick up point and got down at the drop point. They are concerned if the driver or attendant in the school bus is well behaved and is taking good care of your child.

These concerns are real and parents look forward to a system which can help track the movements of their children. If there was an effective system which can undertake this task it would be easier for parents, drivers, attendants and school management.

One of the questions that is raised by everyone is that if the school bus tracking app is safe to use. The sensitive data of the students need to be protected from all piracy.

School bus tracking enables parents to monitor the child or school bus location while they are on the go. Let us look at how safe school bus tracking applications are.

Parent’s concern

Why is the bus late, have my child boarded the bus, where is the school bus right now, will the bus drop my child before I finish my work. These are some of the worries that parents have when they send their child to school or while they come back after school.

After realizing the concerns of parents an app was developed to solve the basic problems that parents and school management faces. It gives a peace of mind to parents who worry about their child’s safety. Parents worry about when the bus will reach to pick up their child and when it will drop off their child.

Another concern is that they don’t have any contact with the bus driver or the attendant. In case there is a delay in pick or drop the parents want to be notified regarding this. If there is a change in the point from where the child is picked up or dropped that needs to be reallocated that is to be communicated with the driver or the attendant.

Driver app

Using the driver app, drivers can have all the details regarding the students that he needs to know. They can mark the attendance of the children so that they know which student is attending school and who is not.

This helps them to plan the best routes so that it saves money and time.

They can collaborate with transportation managers and take the route that is best suited. They can also monitor students from the inside and ensure the student’s safety.

Drivers can view live cam feed so as to monitor activities without leaving the driver console. This also makes sure that your child is not bullied while they are in the bus.

Drivers have an instant access for student details which helps them to take the best routes to reach the pick up or drop points.

Drivers receive notifications regarding change in pick up points and even birthdays of students which helps them to build a rapport with the students.

Parent App

Parents can check on their pupil as the application marks the attendance four times a day when a student gets on or off the bus in the morning and in the evening. Thus parents get to know the attendance of the child without contacting the school management.

Parents get real time notifications of the activities of their child which gives them a peace of mind. Thus they get to know the location of the bus.

This can help them know when the bus if arriving to pick up or drop their child. The parent app can be used to assign a new pick up point without having to call up the driver or school management.

The app can be used to manage more than one child who comes from the same house.

Bus Attendant App

Bus attendant can make use of this app to perform their duties clutter free. They can figure out the next location which the school bus needs to make a stop.

The trip history can be mapped which helps to record the journey taken. When a student boards or gets off the school bus a notification is sent to the attendant. It even notifies the attendant if a child misses a school bus.

Attendants can schedule and direct driver throughout the trip as when a trip is confirmed, it automatically moves to the trip history.

Just like in the driver app attendants also get notification about the student birthdays. Students will be happy to be wished on their birthdays.

Transport Manager App

Sometimes the whole trip is conducted and managed by a transport manager. A school might have a fleet of vehicles that needs to be managed from a control centre.

They can also help with planning the best routes and efficiently manage the fleet. If in case a vehicle is not being tracked the transport manager will get an immediate notification regarding this.

They can send group messages which help to communicate a message to all drivers and attendants. Each bus can be tracked by the transport manager and this real time location can help to choose the best available routes.

Conclusion

School bus tracking apps not only is safe to use but it also ensure the safety of our kids. There are various facets of school bus tracking application that ensures co-ordination with parents, bus drivers, bus attendants and transportation managers.

It is definitely a value addition for schools and parents looking for the safe transit of their children to and from school.

Hiring School Bus Driver – Important Guidelines to Follow

Posted on by TSB Super Admin

Parents and school authorities unanimously agree to the fact that a background check of the school bus drivers is essential before they are allowed to drive a school bus. Per year an average of 22,000 school bus accidents happen in a year.

This amounts to almost 60 school bus accidents that happen each day in the United States. The requirements to take charge as a school bus driver changes from state to state.

Although, it is necessary to have a school diploma and a commercial driving license to apply for the post of a school bus driver. Schools rely upon school buses to transport students for after school programs.

These are not necessarily the fleet of schools but also private transportation companies who run after school activity programs.

Present Scenario

Outside companies are given contracts for bus services by a majority of district schools across the country. It is still unclear as to who is responsible for conducting a thorough background check of the drivers who are assigned to drive a school bus.

There is no hard and fast rule to determine the authenticity of a driver and his previous records.

There is the Safety of Our School Children Act that makes it mandatory for school and educational institutions to obtain a background check by FBI on drivers before employing them or offering them a job as a school bus driver.

The bill prohibits district schools and other educational authorities to hire bus drivers or other employees if they have convicted of a felony like a crime of violence or drunken driving.

But FBI fingerprint check is not sufficient and chances are rare that the bill in enacted. There are chances that applicants put wrong information on their resumes and exaggerate their qualifications while appearing for an interview.

The Concern

Parents worry about their children when they leave for school and from school. It is quite natural for them to be concerned about their kids.

When you wave goodbye to your children while they leave for school your concerns are whether your kid has reached school safely, has your child had eaten lunch, are they being bullied at school, have they boarded the bus back home, etc.

One of the biggest issues parents come across is if the bus driver is driving the vehicle safely. It must be ensured that the driver mustn’t have any criminal records and is not driving the vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

There is a difference between commercial truck drivers and school bus drivers. Commercial truck drivers who operate across states are required to follow many federal safety rules as they take routes across state lines which a very few school buses travel interstate.

School bus drivers are to take up a commercial driver's license. Because of this drivers who don't qualify for a job working for large commercial transportation companies are still eligible to drive a school bus.

Truck drivers are often regulated and monitored not just for driving related of criminal offenses but also for medical conditions that may inhibit their ability to drive a commercial vehicle.

So it is important to check the background of a driver to make sure that he is driving the school bus safely.

How to Ensure an Effective Screening Program

So as we know that a real good screening program is essential to find a driver with whom we can entrust our children the question arises how we can do that. Let us find out how we can make sure that the screening program is effective.

The driver's security must be checked in the first phase where he must possess the motor vehicles reports. If he is a truck driver his work history database must be checked.

Along with this the Commercial Driver's License Information System (CDLIS) is a system which records all the reports of the driver.

There is the Social Security number Trace which can help to trace the reports names and addresses associated with a particular Social Security Number.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is an agency in the United States Department of Transportation that regulates the trucking industry. Truck driver's history can be obtained from the agency's database.

Once the first phase of screening is complete organizations may want to conduct further research on the candidates. The criminal record search may be conducted in compliance with the state or country which can reveal any criminal records of the driver.

Drug or alcohol history verifications from the past employers can be done to verify any discrepancies.

The final phase will include the physical examination of the candidate so as to ensure the health condition. To add up to this pre-employment drug test can also be engaged to find out if the driver has been intoxicated in the recent past.

What are the Essentials of Getting a School Bus Driver’s License

Posted on by TSB Super Admin

School bus drivers are the professionals behind the wheel who steer kids back and forth from home and school safely. To be qualified as a school bus driver, you should possess a CDL, wondering what is a CDL?

It is the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and along with it, you should have an authorization to drive a passenger vehicle (P), and a permit to drive a school bus (S). These are typically called as P and S endorsements.

Nevertheless, every state has established its own set of requirements and licenses, it is wise for you to be knowledgeable regarding the prevailing norms specified by your school district. For all those drivers who are planning to ferry school kids, here are the essentials to secure a school bus driver’s license.

The first step is to qualify for a CDL.

How can you qualify for a CDL?

Below are the prerequisites that should be committed before you possess a CDL.

  1. Pass a Physical Examination

According to Federal Law, it is mandatory for all the school bus drivers to carry a medical card endorsed by the Department of Transportation (DOT). This card is an authentication, which serves as evidence for passing the DOT physical exam.

This exam comes with a fee, which should be remitted by you and you can proceed and apply for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). CLP is the certificate that permits you to practice your driving skills under the guidance of an experienced commercial driver.

What will the physical exam evaluate?

  • Primarily looking into your medical and physical condition, a Physical exam sanctions that you can transport your students safely. A list of approved physicians performs this exam and check your physical and medical conditions thoroughly.

 

  • The next step is to fill up the Medical Examination Report that probes into your medical history and personal information. After that, the physician will provide the results of the examination and endorses whether you match the federal requirements for commercial drivers.

 

  • Any sort of physical disability such as impaired arms or legs will disqualify you as a commercial driver since these impairments come in the way of your driving abilities.

 

  • Medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes and hypertension can also come in the way of your securing a CDL.

 

  • Speaking of vision, it is important for commercial drivers to have either nature or corrected vision of 20/40 in both the eyes. You will also be checked for your ability to distinguish between the three traffic light colors; red, amber and green.

 

  • Drug abuse and alcoholism are the two other parameters that will be checked by the concerned authorities and you need to come out clean with all such examinations. If you are a consumer of habit-forming drugs either under prescription or otherwise, you will be labeled ineligible to secure a CDL.

 

  1. Visit your state’s driver’s license website to understand the eligibility requirements.

Despite the fact that federal DOT has certain minimum eligibility requirements in place, it is important to realize certain additional rules that should be met, if at all you are driving in other states.

  • Legal identification documents such as a birth certificate or your passport should be furnished along with a proof of residency. You can check out the requirements that are enlisted under your state’s mandate and submit them accordingly

 

  • Your past driving history for 10 years is another important data that will be evaluated by your state’s driver license office

 

  • All your state-wise driver licenses will also be scrutinized

 

  • If your license has a ranking less than 4 points, it can be an ideal situation for you

 

  • Talking of permissible age, you need to be at least 18 years for obtaining a CDL. However, an age limit of 21 years is enough to drive a school bus in certain states.

 

  1. Qualify the Knowledge Tests in Writing

To secure a CLP, you need to pass written tests, which test your driving knowledge in addition to meeting the general eligibility sanctions. In order to drive a school bus, it is mandatory for you to not only qualify the general commercial driving test but also additional tests.

Moreover, these additional tests will intend to provide eligibility for you to secure passenger and school bus endorsements. For you to sit for the written examination, you need to pay a fee; irrespective of the outcome.

  • Every knowledge test evaluates your grip over 20 general areas specified by federal CDL regulations. You should answer 30 questions with a minimum of 80% of correct answers linked to both general and endorsement tests for you to qualify. 

 

  • You will be tested in areas concerning the inspection and maintenance of your vehicle, including the parameters linked to safe vehicle operations. Your knowledge regarding lights and horns coupled with vehicle control attributes such as skid control, backing and shifting will be tested. Last but not the least, your basic control over the vehicle will be tested in conjunction with safe driving skills.

 

  • If your school bus has air brakes, it calls for another knowledge test on air brakes and their operation. You should also pass this test. 

 

  • Your knowledge on how you perform various school bus activities including the loading and unloading operations of school children, the timely utilization of signal devices attached to school buses, and the emergency exit mechanisms that are in place will be assessed before granting you an S endorsement. 

 

  1. How to Secure a CDL?

Of course, after meeting all the above-mentioned pre-requisites for a CDL, you are one step closer to getting a CDL. For instance, you now need to follow these guidelines so that you can eventually walk away with a CDL.

  1. Apply for a CLP

CLP is a 2-week certificate that allows you to undergo skill tests before you finally secure a CDL.

  • The CLP comes with an additional fee that needs to be paid by you. Certain states charge a consolidated fee for all the written tests and CLP. You can check out your state’s CDL manual to acquire the listing of itemized fees for securing a CDL. 

 

  • With the CLP in hand, you are now in a position to practice all the driving drills that will help you qualify the skill tests. 

 

  • While certain states operate exclusive training courses for school bus driver applicants, there are others which demand additional training once you have passed the skill tests of your state. This will assist you secure a CDL with P and S endorsements. 

 

  • A caveat here is to appear for the skill tests before the CLP period expires. 
  1. Enroll Yourself for the General CDL Skills Test

The General CDL Skills Test has 3 sections; namely: vehicle inspection, basic driving controls and the actual driving test. Furthermore, it is mandatory that you pass all the three parts of this general test for you to secure your CDL.

  • The payment terms are the same with the general CDL skill test that you need to pay for them irrespective of the outcome. You should follow your state’s mandate that either charges an additional fee for the CDL or a consolidated fee for the entire school bus driver’s license. 

 

  • You will be subjected to a pre-trip inspection that is part of your skills test. You will be tested for your ability to exactly identify and evaluate warning and monitoring devices. Testing your ability to precisely assess the condition of the brake system, this test focuses on your skill to evaluate low pressure warnings. You should not be caught unawares when you will be asked to perform an operational check concerning all the alarms and emergency gadgets. 

 

  • The basic skills required to control the school bus will be put to the ultimate test. This test assesses your ability to start the vehicle, stop it and maneuver it around in a safe manner.

 

  • The third section of the test pays attention to evaluating your safe driving skills. Along with visual search methods, you will also be tested on the timely usage of driving signals. Bringing weather and traffic conditions into the picture, this test provides a holistic assessment of how you can control the speed of your vehicle during testing times. You will also be assessed on the appropriate positioning of your vehicle while initiating a turn or when you need to change lanes. 

 

  1. Test the Feel of Being At The Wheel of a School Bus
  • You as an applicant for a school bus driver’s license will be required to attend a test in a school bus. Now is the time to test your CDL to bestow you with both P and S endorsements; in a single step. 

 

  • Upon qualifying the skills test, you need to collect all your documentation and head to the driver’s license office and remit the prescribed fee. While certain state authorities give you the CDL right away, others can mail it across to you. 

The process of securing a CDL is not over as yet if you are associated with a school district, where the school bus drivers are required to submit additional certificates. These credentials are termed under the head of state-specific requirements that should be met by school bus drivers to ply school buses with a valid driving license.

  1. Conformance to State-Specific Requirements

 

  1. First Aid Certification

Certain states constituted it as a compulsory procedure for school bus drivers to be certified in basic first aid.

  • You can knock on the doors of your local high school or district office to obtain pertinent information, whether you need to undergo the first aid training and test. 

 

  1. Sign Up for a Criminal Background Check

Every state should compulsorily conduct a criminal background check for all the potential school bus drivers, and you need to follow the same. The FBI or a state investigative bureau will come as regulatory authorities certifying you of your flawless background

  1. Pass the Alcohol and Drug Tests

All the states governed by federal laws form it a pre-employment requirement to conduct random drug and alcohol tests on school bus drivers. These tests can be conducted either during employment or as an aftereffect of an accident that a school bus driver was involved in.

  1. A Holistic Agility Training

School bus drivers are tested for their presence of mind while being at the wheel. In an attempt to test their agility, certain states demand the need to train and qualify drivers for unforeseen exigencies. As a school bus driver’s license applicant, you will be assessed on your abilities to support school children wriggle out safely in emergency situations.

  1. Steer Under the Guidance of an Experienced School Bus Driver

Several school districts need you to put in a certain number of training hours when you will be at the wheel of a school bus, driving with the guidance coming from an experienced school bus driver. During this training period, the experienced driver will oversee the way in which you maneuver the school bus and provides you with invaluable inputs that will improve your performance as a licensed school bus driver.

Closing Thoughts

Driven by a mission to provide safe and comfortable rides to school children day in and day out, state authorities have enlisted a number of essentials that need to be fulfilled before a school bus driver is granted a driver’s license.

Along with essential requirements, you should pass a series of physical and driving tests that will vouch for your welfare along with a strong assessment of your driving skills.

Only when all the above- mentioned requirements are fulfilled will you as a school bus driver’s license applicant will be permitted to be at the wheel of a school bus ferrying groups of chirpy and intelligent kids. After all, the safety of school children is in your hands!

8 Technologies that Simplify Transportation Related Tasks

Posted on by TSB Super Admin

2018 is a crucial year for the transportation industry. For additional convenience and safety, fleet managers are opting software that will simplify their transportation related tasks.

For this reason, as a fleet manager, it is wise to install the software that supports your data collection process, have fuel efficiency equipments, Wi-Fi, wearable technologies, and a tracking device to monitor student’s movements.

Check out the 8 technologies that simplify transportation related tasks:

1. Advanced Fleet Management Software

A fleet management software enables you to facilitate the fleet related task, driver’s task, and vehicle maintenance effortlessly. Consequently, this comprises the task involving financial perspective, policy formulation, and management of technicians, drivers, and shops.

In the modern fleet management software, the system will be having a new interface that provides a refurbished login experience, and enhanced core stylesheets, which can be utilized throughout the system.

However, along with the existing functionality, the modern software consists of features such as an advanced login system, which is compatible with smart phones, desktop, tablet, and laptop.

Furthermore, the software will have a capability to white  label screens with trademarks and background images, generate augmented content layout, and incorporate updates for the cross-browser functionality.

2. Devices for Detecting Left Out Children in Vehicles

Have you heard of a device that recognize the children left out in vehicles? The Ambient Sensing Node (ASN) is such an intelligent device that enables to detect the children, who are left behind vehicles, for instance, school buses.

Moreover, the device records heartbeat, breathing, etc. for recognizing the movements of the vehicle occupants. As a result, the drivers and vehicle operators will receive instant alerts via the telematics system.

3. School Bus Wi-Fi Solution

No doubt, integrating wi-fi to the school bus is one of the brilliant solutions. Why? Since, it assists you to transform travel hours into a productive one, and thus able to extend the classroom by providing internet facility to students.

As a matter of fact, when students are rendered with internet facility, they will be able to excel in school work.

With the wi-fi facility, students will be able to relish data sharing and pooling among school buses, and have a dual-carrier option to attain two networks at the same time (4G network is also available).

4. Fuel Island Terminal

Fuel Island Terminal will be rendered with multiple options that enables you to realize the neglected fuel requirements. The device such as Petro Vend 200 renders 24 hours fuel control and it aids you to recognize abandoned fleet fueling operations.

Apart from that, the terminal also provides an alpha keyboard, a receipt printer, and the dual card reader.

5. Single Data Platform

With the innovative single data platform system, consisting of real-time GPS, integrated student tracking system, driver support, vehicle inspection and maintenance, and route analysis, you will be able to handle the vehicle fleets efficiently.

Other advanced features include updates on the school bus location, cameras with an ability to sync to the cloud, a cloud-based dashboard having vehicle idling, fuel usage alerts, and  automatic engine diagnostics, driver safety reporting, and swift-search user interface.

This particular platform can be integrated to the school bus tracking apps.

6. HD Video Surveillance System

TH6 is an HD video surveillance system, which enables you to accomplish HD upgrades swiftly. For instance, you can install up to 1080p 6 HD cameras, in addition to the records obtained from the analog cameras.

The system such as TH6, also attributes the facility to record video even though there is an unexpected power loss due to accidents.            

7. Battery Technology

The ACC Climate Control and Vanner Inc.’s Revolution technology offers zero-emission operation. Presumably, this technology will enable you to oust vehicle idling, reduce vehicle maintenance costs, and lower fuel consumption.

In addition to this, the driver will have the full air conditioning functionality, radios, wheelchair lifts, etc. with the engine off, which will eliminate the unnecessary emissions.

8. Wearable Technology

With the advent of wearable technologies, you will be able to manage severa l vehicles efficiently. For instance, by utilizing these technologies, you will be able to record attendance effectively and procure trip details. Hence, the overall transportation becomes successful and profitable.

All the above 8 innovative technologies can simplify the transportation related tasks and enables you to achieve the established goals.

School Bus Routing Software – How It Supports School Bus Drivers

Posted on by TSB Super Admin

The ultimate goal of every school transportation is to constitute a safe journey for students. However, the success of school transportation insist the active involvement of the school bus drivers.

Meanwhile, the task of a school bus driver is challenging and involves risk as they are transporting the precious cargo in the universe.

With the advent of school bus routing software, the drivers are able to govern and assign routes efficiently. Moreover, the route optimization feature enables you to recognize the efficient school bus route and thereby enhance the student safety.

Let’s check out how a school bus route software advocates school bus drivers:

  • Substitute Drivers Can Relish the Benefits Offered by School Bus Routing Software

The number of substitute driver depends on the number of regular drivers. Ordinarily, there will not be a sufficient number of substitute drivers. In fact, drivers are also human, they also deserve a vacation, sick leave, or encounter personal issues.

Route optimization feature in the app enables the substitute drivers to determine the apt route for the trip.

While the regular drivers split the route with the substitute drivers, every child will obtain the opportunity to relish school transportation services to and from school. 

The only matter you should consider is that whether the school bus driver has a valid license, adequate knowledge of the routes, and procure experience in driving those routes.

  • Routing Software Integrates and Track School Calendars

Different schools have different sessions and have different holidays. Routing software renders an immense assistance to drivers and schools in tracking school calendars and determining the apt route for the specific days. 

However, the public and private schools have different timings. As a result, you should arrange transportation services for public schools when private schools are closed and vice versa.

Let’s check how the routing software supports the drivers in tracking school calendars:

  1. Routing software allows you to track alternative routes for “public school only” days and vice versa
  2. Driver will be aware of the routes they are driving
  3. Instant alerts to students and families whenever there is no school transportation services on a particular day
  • Real-time Alerts for Inclement Weather

In foreign countries, the snowfall is a major concern and will result in road closures as there is a chance of flooding. Even though there is a delay, school bus drivers should commit all the procedures, adhere to the schedule, and clear the snow. Furthermore, the buses should be tested, cleansed, and examined carefully after clearing the snow.

At times, during the inclement weather, it is risky to travel on certain roads due to the increased chance for accidents or roadblocks.

The routing software intends to avoid such congested roads and suggest alternative routes, which is previously loaded into the system. In addition, it will reduce the requirement for taking last minute decisions that endanger the student safety.

  • Ensures Proper Licensing

Licenses are evidently crucial for school bus drivers. With the software, you will obtain assistance as you receive licensing alerts whenever the requirements are due.

For instance, drivers will acquire alerts regarding their commercial driver license, regular license, criminal background check, physical examination, child abuse checks, and bus inspections that require to be updated immediately.

Meanwhile, with the support of a routing software, schools are able to add and customize alerts. As a consequence, you will be able to confer safety and enhance driver satisfaction. 

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the school transportation routing software constitute a range of  benefits for school bus drivers such as effortless documentation, real-time notifications, and on the road guidance, which offers solutions to overcome the road related challenges.

In the meantime, the school bus routing software establishes a healthy working relationship between drivers and school transportation officials.

Electric Buses – Where Do We Stand Now

Posted on by TSB Super Admin

The popularity of electric bus is increasing day by day. Why are they popular? Nevertheless, the highlight of an electric bus is the way they reduce environmental pollution, enhancing the safety and security of citizens. Indeed, it is yet another praiseworthy innovation of technology, which augments the road safety.

Let’s check out the efforts of various countries towards introducing electric buses. First and foremost, have a glimpse of the efforts of Poprad city:

Poprad City Becomes the First Slovakian City to Test Electric Buses

Poprad becomes the first Slovakian city to completely test an electric bus. The highlights of the bus include the following:

  • Low-floor model and fully propelled by electric power
  • The Leonis Electric
  • 12 meters long
  • Had its premiere on October 2017
  • Result of 2 years effort
  • Require 4 hrs charging and should operate for 200 km before recharging
  • Trial operation will remain for 6-12 months

NTU Singapore and Volvo Signs Agreement for Autonomous Electric Buses

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) of Singapore signed the agreement to co-operate on the research and development for the autonomous electric buses. This initiative is a part of the Land Transport Authority of Singapore’s effort to constitute solutions for viable public transport in the future period.

The highlights of the bus include the following:

  • 12m long
  • Integrated with autonomous driving technologies
  • GPS and LIDAR technology-based system
  • Will be launched in the beginning of 2019
  • OppCharge interface
  • Render 300kW of charging power in 3-6 minutes

Proterra Electric Bus Launches in Alaska Region

Of course, severe cold weather condition and electric buses are a dreadful combination altogether. Surprisingly, frigid places such as Alaska, Anchorage, etc. are becoming the target for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).

Check out the highlights of the bus:

  • 40-foot electric bus
  • 100% electric
  • Operates on the routes such as 10, 25, and 35
  • Launches within the next 4 months
  • Emits zero tailpipe emissions
  • Reduce carbon dioxide emissions by replacing it with diesel vehicles
  • Lack combustion engine, which ultimately reduce the rate of noise pollution

India’s Efforts Towards Introducing Electric Buses

The Transport Department of India took the first step towards creating a fleet of low-floor electric buses to enhance the Capital’s public transportation. There will be 2 depots for providing accommodation and charging facilities for 200 electric buses.

Consequently, the 2 locations, which was recognized to provide the charging facilities include East Vinod Nagar and Bawana, since it is facilitated with 11KV sub-stations. However, the first trial version of electric bus ran in the city in March 2016. Furthermore, the bus is having an operating cost of Rs 12 per km, when compared to Rs 18 per km for CNG DTC low-floor bus. As a matter of fact, the Indian transportation officials assured that all the CNG buses will be replaced by electric buses at the earliest.

In conclusion, the electric buses will certainly revolutionize the transportation sector in the future. Several countries as mentioned above have given a genuine effort for introducing the electric buses. This will not only reduce environmental pollution, but also enhance the safety of citizens.

Wish to be an Awesome Parent? Follow these 15 Tips

Posted on by TSB Super Admin

How simple would it be if babies come with guideline manual?

The question every couple has in mind when on the verge of becoming parents.

Let us plot certain scenes and introspect! How will you react in the following instances?

Imagine a scenario where in your child’s longing for something quickly escalates into an outright tantrum. Or a situation you sense the child is hiding something from you. Or maybe you invariably sense fear in his or her eyes, however you can’t figure out why?

Still, no clue, is it?

Apparently there is no tough or rapid protocol to raise an ideal child. However certain parenting tips can assist you in avoiding the mistakes you often commit unknowingly, when it comes to children.

Your Time Matters

1. Every child loves listening to their parent’s voice. Studies have shown that the child starts to perceive the vibes and notions of the parents right from the mother’s womb.

Ensure that you maintain a positive environment for your child. Read out insightful stories, even when they are babies. This will aid you to bond with the child.

2. Spend time with your kids. The relevant and the only way to realize your kids closely is to devote time with them. This would render them a chance to understand you too. Even though you are busy, spend at least an hour or two listening to what they did for the day.

Don’t leave the chance to induce a feeling that you respect their interests. It doesn’t matter if you should build mud pies with them. Besides, when you set aside time for them, they will learn to value everything and balance their own lives. 

3. Display curiosity in recognizing their routine, even though you are engaged. Questions such as “what did you perform in school today?” “what unique matters did you learn today?” “How to spend this weekend?” assure that you are there for them and they can always come to you with the problems they have. This will induce a sense of confidence and security in them.

4. Time with Dad – often spending time with their father has shown an exceptional development. Kids, who spend time with their dad are found to be keener and will act positively in whatever difficulties they confront.

Build Emotional Strength

5. When they commit something, pleasant or irritating, acknowledge it. Don’t just say they were excellent or poor. Be specific regarding what made you feel they were exceptional. If they miss something, point it out. This will assist them to work further on their strengths and weaknesses. Be their best critic, yet the strongest supporter.

6. Never ever compare!

Arguably, you will have a tendency for citing examples. At certain times, you don’t realize where the line is. As examples turn to comparisons, it only diminishes the child’s confidence and leads to insecurities.

Consider a situation, where your child is upset with her performance in the exams. Instead of telling them “Look how marvelous he performed, you need to learn from him”, tell them “let’s work on your methods, I believe you have superb potential”

At the same time, don’t attempt to push the limits beyond their withstanding capability.

Character replicates

7. Be the person you desire your child to be!

Your child is an absolute result of the idol you have carved. Just as in the examples you have set in front of him. This says a plethora of matters with respect to values, behavior, perseverance and responsibility. They will walk over the footprints you leave behind.

For instance, instead of asking them to apologize when they mess up ensure that you act the same when you blow up.

Practice what you preach. Actions create a lasting impression.

8. Don’t underestimate them when they grow capable enough. Give them a chance to handle issues by themselves. And never rush in to support them with issues they can manage, yet acknowledge their frustrations with care.

9. Discipline can’t be force fed! Teach them morals and values, although in a practical and positive manner. Demonstrate the obedience you desire to inculcate in them.

10. Express emotions – this will aid your child to be expressive regarding his or her feelings too. When you express feelings of love and kindness, the kids will reciprocate. They will maintain the same sensitivity and compassion towards other people.

11. The fights matter. Argue over concerns that assists you to mold your child rather than argue over the petty concerns such as food or TV.  On the other hand, it is wise to avoid rudeness or hitting. Don’t resist everything they say, as this will shut them off completely.

12. The Eye game – Tell the kids to notice the color of a person’s eye. And no, this is not just for entertainment. This will genuinely build your child’s confidence and assist them to be assertive.

13. Give joy filled memories.  They might not remember your words, however your actions they surely will.  Develop family traditions such as trip on the last days of every month or cooking together as a family on weekends. These beautiful memories will be cherished by them forever.  Whenever they are nostalgic, they will be jubilant

14. Respect your other half.  Your marriage is the best example for your kids to show as to what a relationship honestly means in a person’s life. If you disrespect each other’s opinions and believes in front of your child, it takes a toll on your child’s mentality in regard to relationships. Always remember that they are watching you closely.

It’s the Little Facts

15. Don’t force them to finish meals. If your child refuses to finish the meal, let it be. Never force them to finish it for fulfilling your satisfaction. This could lead them to develop unhealthy eating habits as an adult.

Every child is different, although the basic human nature at the core remains the same. All children may not respond to your parenting in a similar manner. Nevertheless, if you observe your child’s psychological response patterns carefully, it will definitely assist you in the process.

No parent is excellent, No child is either.  Follow your instincts, since parenting is hardwired.

If you wish to add your experiences and suggestions, please feel free to share it in the comments section.

Electric School Buses – Another Big Leap for the World to Go Green

Posted on by TSB Super Admin

Is it the dawn of electric vehicles? Can the New York Department of Education enhance environmental sustainability and reduce income unfairness? Yes, it is possible, especially with the coordination of electric school bus workers and the citizens residing in the city.

Nevertheless, it will be brilliant, if the school bus workers operate and own a school bus company with a goal to green the city. For this reason, the city has already organized an electric school bus worker cooperative, which combines elected officials, transportation and environmental advocates.

However, the ownership of the cooperative belongs to the New York City Bus Drivers and obtained funds by creating a contract for the Education Department’s existing school bus routes.

As a matter of fact, a union entitled “Transportation Workers Union Local 100” that represents city bus and train operators, is planning to endow ownership of the school bus company to the workers, with a motive to green the city and reduce the hazardous fuel emission into the atmosphere.

Working of the Cooperative

How the cooperative operates?

The worker cooperative will be operated by a board, which is elected by bus operators. Also, the board has special reservations for parents.

In spite of earning profits for the corporation, the cooperative will also assist to increase the wages by the unified efforts of employees and boost the dignity of the workplace. This will enable the cooperative to render an effortless service and augment the quality of rides for students.

Moreover, the current New York Mayor Bill de Blasio and the City Council have already expressed their desire to create worker co-operatives.

Meanwhile, the Department of Small Business Services has already established the Worker Cooperative Business Development Initiative by receiving 3 million dollars from the City Council for enlightening, supporting, and developing worker cooperative businesses. Hence, it is the right time for committing this initiative.

Objective – Apart from enhancing the labor relations, the electric school bus worker cooperative also enables you to sustain the environment and safeguard the health of New York citizens.

Dominant Reason for Pollution

Diesel buses adversely affect the environment. There is no requirement of scientific journals for recognizing its terrible consequences of running diesel buses, since the fact is apparent in its tailpipe, which emit pernicious and brown soot over the roadways and into our lungs.

The black carbon and nitrogen oxide transmitted from diesel school buses are hazardous for the environment and perturb children, whose lungs are still at a developing stage.

In fact, the New York city is ranked among the top 25 polluted cities for ozone and year-round particle pollution, as per the American Lung Association’s State of the Air report. This indicates there is increased chance for dreadful air days and asthma for New York residents. 

Furthermore, it was estimated that 2 million people in the New York area are having asthma, which includes half a million children.

How to Secure Students from Pollution?

Students are transported on outmoded and fume-emitting school buses right from the age of 3 or 4 years. Now, you can imagine how distressing the situation is. Henceforth, this ghastly circumstance will not repeat in the year 2018.

What will be the reason? Today’s hygienic technologies have the capability to reduce pollution and safeguard the health.

Unluckily, New York’s electricity comes from coal and while charging the electric school buses, it will result in pollution, especially due to greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, which induce global warming.

However, the city and state government is planning to modify the energy portfolio by means of wind and solar power, which ultimately reduces the carbon footprint and air pollution emitted to the atmosphere. 

Future Programs

Today, the city has an immense opportunity to transform the energy portfolio into a reality. Exclaiming how?

Recently, the Education Department has divulged a request for 1600 bus routes to be operated by transportation companies with a five-year contract. As a result, companies can present their proposals until Feb 22, 2018.

Of course, it is wise to grant these bids to those school bus providers, who declared to operate zero-emission electric vehicles and have a goal of worker empowerment.

As a consequence, a multitude of democrats approached Transport Workers Union (TWU) and environmental advocates for allocating 25 bus routes to electric bus operators. Although 25 is a minor part of 1,600, but it can eventually pave the way to an admirable future.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, by unnecessarily burning oils,  you are ruining the environment. Therefore, it is wise to invest in vehicles that is environment-friendly and thus prioritize the safety of citizens above everything.

In the meantime, the aforementioned pilot program will certainly provide an immense assistance to accomplish the commitment of the Bill de Blasio administration to defend climate change and empowering employees.