(1) Each bus transit system shall require that all buses operated by such bus transit system, and all buses operated by a private contract transit provider, be inspected at least annually in accordance with bus inspection procedures set forth in this rule.
    (2) It shall be the bus transit system’s responsibility to ensure that each individual performing a bus safety inspection is qualified as follows:
    (a) Understands the requirements set forth in this rule chapter and can identify defective components.
    (b) Is knowledgeable of and has mastered the methods, procedures, tools, and equipment used when performing an inspection.
    (c) Has at least one year of training and/or experience as a mechanic or inspector in a vehicle maintenance program, and has sufficient general knowledge of buses owned and operated by the bus transit system to recognize deficiencies or mechanical defects.
    (3) Each bus receiving a safety inspection shall be checked for compliance with the requirements for safety devices and equipment, as referenced or specified herein. Specific operable equipment and devices as required by this rule chapter, include the following as applicable to Type I and II buses:
    (a) Horn.
    (b) Windshield wipers.
    (c) Mirrors.
    (d) Wiring and batteries.
    (e) Service and parking brakes.
    (f) Warning devices.
    (g) Directional signals.
    (h) Hazard warning signals.
    (i) Lighting systems and signaling devices.
    (j) Handrails and stanchions.
    (k) Standee line and warning.
    (l) Doors and brake interlock devices.
    (m) Stepwells and flooring.
    (n) Emergency exits
    (o) Tires and wheels.
    (p) Suspension system.
    (q) Steering system.
    (r) Exhaust system.
    (s) Seat belts.
    (t) Safety equipment.
    (u) Equipment for transporting wheelchairs.
    (v) Working speedometer.
    (4) A safety inspection report shall be prepared by the individual(s) performing the inspection and shall include the following:
    (a) Identification of the individual(s) performing the inspection.
    (b) Identification of the bus transit system operating the bus.
    (c) The date of the inspection.
    (d) Identification of the bus inspected.
    (e) Identification of the equipment and devices inspected including the identification of equipment and devices found deficient or defective.
    (f) Identification of corrective action(s) for any deficient or defective items found and date(s) of completion of corrective action(s).
    (5) Records of annual safety inspections and documentation of any required corrective actions shall be retained a minimum of four years by the bus transit system for compliance review.
Rulemaking Authority 334.044(2), 341.041(3), 341.061(2)(a) FS. Law Implemented 341.061(2) FS. History-New 9-7-87, Amended 11-10-92, 8-7-05, 9-16-10.