Minibus Driver’s HanDbook
Stoke - on – Trent City Council
Driver Training Unit
Contents
Introduction
3
What is minibus
4
Licences
5
Assessments
6
Blue Badge & defensive driving
7
Speed
8
Eyesight
10
Maintenance check
11
Before setting out on a Journey
12
Mobile Phones
13
Other Offences
14
Seatbelts
15
The Law
16
Child Restraints
17
Accident Procedure / Breakdown
18
Health and Safety
19
First Aid
20
First Aid Recovery
21
Driver Vehicle Check and Defect Report
22
Conclusion
23
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
2
I
ntroduction to Minibus Driving
This booklet along with a practical assessment has been introduced by The Driver
Training Unit at Stoke on Trent City Council.
Driving, whether for business or pleasure, is becoming more stressful year on year.
As a driver you are in a very different position from other employees because you are
legally responsible for monitoring the condition of your vehicle.
Failure to comply with the regulations will leave you open to prosecution which could
affect your employment. Therefore it is vital you are aware of your responsibilities.
You will find in this handbook most of the things you will need to know during the
course of your minibus driving. If after reading this you have any further questions
please contact the driver training unit on 01782 233405.
The aim of this handbook is to help you, the driver, to do your job safely and
responsibly.
You are asked to read through this booklet before you take your practical assessment.
You will be asked a selection of questions based on this handbook and the Highway
Code.
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
3
What is a minibus?
Legally minibuses are passenger carrying vehicles with a capacity of 9-16 passengers
in addition to the driver
Who is responsible for the condition of the minibus?
As a driver you are at all times legally responsible for the condition of the minibus
you are driving.
The road traffic act 1988 states that you must carry out a walk around vehicle check before
using a vehicle on the public highway.
This responsibility cannot be passed on to the organisation owning the minibus
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
4
Photo card licences
From December 1999 the DVLA have stopped issuing paper style licences, these have now been
replaced by photo card licences:
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Take the form of a credit card size licence with a picture of the driver
Only valid for a maximum of 10 years
PCV or LGV drivers may need to renew their licence more frequently
DVLA will issue a reminder that your licence is about to expire
The counterpart which shows information about any endorsements
Driving a minibus
You may legally drive a minibus if you come under one of these two categories:
1. Driving licences obtained before 1st January 1997
Drivers who obtained their full licence before 01/01/97 may drive a minibus in the UK (until their
licence expires) if they;

Hold a valid full licence for private cars

Are at least 21 years of age

The vehicle is not being used for hire or reward
2. Driving licences obtained on or after 1 January 1997

Drivers who obtained their full car driving licence on or after the 1 January 1997 are only
licensed to drive a vehicle with up to 8 seats.
To drive a minibus, driver’s need to gain category D1 PCV entitlement on their licence by meeting
higher medical standards and pass an appropriate test.
Volunteer drivers are exempt from this and are allowed to drive a minibus with up to 16 passenger
seats (in addition to the driver) for social purposes by a non commercial body provided:
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The driver has held a full licence for at least 2 years
The driver receives no payment or other consideration other than out of pocket expenses
The vehicle has a gross weight of no more than 3500kg (4250kg including any specialised
equipment for carriage of disabled passengers)
No trailer attached
The driver is aged 21 but under 70
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
5
Assessments are a requirement by Stoke on Trent City Council for all
driver’s of minibuses owned or hired.
The practical assessment will incorporate
The authority may request you take a vocational medical before an assessment

Before the assessment you will be required to show your valid licence (both parts if you have the
card type licence) for the mini bus the requirement for Stoke-on-Trent City Council is

“D1”
You should be able to read a number plate in daylight from:
66 feet (20m) 20.5 metres (67ft) from the older type number plate.

Then be able to answer questions on the walk around vehicle check

If required adjust your seat and mirrors.
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Make sure you familiarise yourself with the controls.

The assessor will explain about the test and at the end of the assessment you will be told of the
outcome and then asked to sign all documentation.
The Practical Drive

You will be expected to obey all traffic signs and road markings, using the road in accordance
with the Highway Code.

Throughout the drive you should be conscious of the way you drive, remember you will
eventually be carrying passengers, and some may have disabilities that may give them no upper
body strength, for example braking harshly, could cause distress or injury.

You should plan your route, think about what you need to take with you, e.g. medical equipment,
torch, blankets, money etc.

When driving, plan and look well ahead act on what you see rather than reacting on a situation.

Remember defensive driving is the best way to drive. See Page 7

At the end of the assessment your assessor will tell you the outcome of the assessment. .

The assessor will give you feedback on your assessment.
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
6
Blue Badge scheme


Blue Badges must be used in conjunction with a “parking disc” in England and Wales
It is a criminal offence, with a fine of up to £1,000, when going to press to display a
Blue Badge if there are no passengers, who would be eligible to benefit under the terms of the
Scheme
Defensive driving?
Defensive driving means safe driving, the art of driving to avoid preventable accidents and avoid
contributing to others being involved in accidents.
You must adjust your driving towards hazards presented by abnormal or changing weather
conditions, visibility, traffic conditions, the mechanical state of your vehicle and your physical state
of mind.
You must maintain constant concentration and be ready to adjust your driving in good time.
Constantly search the traffic around you and see what is happening as far ahead of your vehicle as
possible. Many minor accidents are caused by the driver unaware of another vehicles presence.
Do not trust another driver to avoid an accident.
Always use your mirrors especially the nearside before moving off or turns.
Traffic conditions can vary from hour to hour, day to day; the defensive driver must be considerate
even to inconsiderate drivers. You should accept the irritations of traffic and the behaviour of other
drivers.
Motivation is the most important element in defensive driving you must give way to other drivers
whenever necessary. Defensive driving will help you develop confidence that accidents are
preventable and it will improve both your driving performance and peace of mind.
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
7
Speed
Speed limits for minibuses are different to those of cars
Built-up area where the lights are closer than 200 yards
30 mph
Roads subject to national speed limit
50 mph
Dual Carriageways
60 mph
Motorways
70mph
(speed limiter fitted 62mph)
Speed Limiters
From January 2008 you may find your mini bus has been fitted with a speed limiter if so your speed
will be restricted to a maximum speed of 62mph (100kph) A sticker in side the vehicle indicates a
speed limiter has been fitted. Where there is a limiter fitted consideration should be given before
overtaking, and the use of the fast lane of a motorway prohibited (unless asked to do so by police or
overhead markings)
If there is no limiter fitted you will not be restricted in speed, but it is advised to follow the above for
the safety of your passengers.
 Think!!!!
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70% of drivers regularly exceed the 30mph limit
An average of 10 people are killed every day on UK roads
You are twice as likely to kill someone if you hit them at 35mph than if you hit them at 30mph
A child hit by a motor vehicle travelling at 40mph only has a 5% chance of surviving the
accident
66% of accidents resulting in injury or death, occur on roads with a speed limit of 30mph or less
The overall stopping distance of a car travelling at 30mph is 23 metres (about 6 car lengths)
Minibuses may take even further to stop
What are the benefits of reducing speed?
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Reduces pressure and stress levels
Less likelihood of being involved in an accident
Less likelihood of being prosecuted for speeding
Reduction in fuel consumption and exhaust gas emissions
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
8
You should ensure that:



You maintain a safety gap around the minibus at all times
In slow moving traffic, you do not get too close to the vehicle ahead of you
In faster moving traffic you use the two second rule
*
*
*
Start
1 second
2 seconds
How to use the 2 second rule:Pick a fixed object eg. Telegraph pole or bridge when the vehicle in front passes it, count, when you
pass the object, there should be a two seconds delay.
The Anti-lock Braking System ABS
From May 2002 new minibuses must have ABS
Older minibuses may already have ABS
You need to know:
What to do in an emergency situation
If your vehicle has ABS, in an emergency situation firmly press the brake pedal and keep your foot
hard on the brakes.
It is likely that you will feel feedback from the ABS on the brake pedal in the form of vibration or
pulsation. This can be an unfamiliar and maybe uncomfortable experience but it is proof that the
ABS is working and the correct course of action is to keep your foot hard on the brakes.
Reversing a vehicle whilst using a guide

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Whilst reversing you must use your mirrors and all round observation skills
The driver is responsible for the vehicle even when being guided
Guiding a driver requires appropriate training and safety measures such as high visibility clothing
Guides should stand in a safe place, keep pedestrians clear of the reversing area and give clear
signals to the driver
If a passenger assistant is acting as a guide, vulnerable passengers must not be left unsupervised
If the driver loses sight of the guide they should stop the vehicle
Be aware of your blind spots
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
9
E
yesight

Drivers have to read a number plate during their driving test at 67 feet (20.5 metres), or 66 feet
(20 metres) for new style plates (This is a legal requirement)

Naturally deteriorates with age especially when you reach your mid-forties

A recent survey suggests 16% of drivers could not meet the minimum legal eyesight standard for
driving
An eye examination by an optician offers a comprehensive check
We recommend an eyesight test at least every two years


Wearing glasses/corrective lenses to pass the eyesight assessment
If you can only read a number plate using glasses/corrective lenses for the eyesight assessment, the
law requires you wear them whenever you are driving and throughout your assessment.
If you used your glasses/corrective lenses to read the number plate and take off/out your
glasses/corrective lenses during the practical assessment, your examiner will remind you the law
requires you to wear them; if you refuse to wear them, the test will not continue.
If you have broken, forgotten or brought the wrong glasses, you should tell your examiner at the start
of the test. If you don't tell the examiner and attempt and fail the eyesight test, your assessment will
be recorded as a failure and the remainder of the test will not go ahead.
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
10
Maintenance Check
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External damage to bodywork
Be observant whilst approaching your vehicle: eg fluid leaks, tyres, ensure the vehicle is level
checking for suspension problems etc.
Tyre conditions and pressures
Oil, water, brake fluid,
Washer fluid and fuel levels
Lights and indicators are working and clean
Wipers and washers in working order
Fire extinguisher intact
First aid kit complete
Mirrors intact, in the correct position
Horn in working order
Seat belts working
Paper work completed
Defect Reporting is paramount. You should know the procedures and policy for reporting
defects. ( See Appendix 1)
ALWAYS CONSULT THE TRAN SPORT WORKSHOP
(01782 232203 or 232125)
BEFORE TOPPING UP ANY OF THE FLUIDS: ie Oil/, Brake/Clutch/Steering
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
11
Before setting out on a journey you should:
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Plan your route when on long journeys
Consider what equipment you should take:Map
Torch
Personal Alarm
Mobile Telephone
Breakdown service information etc.
Check the minibus before you set off
When driving alone: - lock all doors
Park in a well lit place
Lock doors when leaving the minibus
Have your keys ready when you return to the minibus
Be cautious if involved in an accident – See page 18
If followed or harassed drive to a police station
All gangways must be clear of obstructions at all times
There should be a clear gangway for every passenger to at least two exits
All doors must be unlocked when there are passengers inside the minibus.
On long journey’s use a sensible approach to Rest


Rest periods of 15 minutes or more after every two hours driving
Use a second driver for longer hours
Tachographs are used to record driver’s hours these are only used in minibuses if they are taken out
of the country or the vehicle is being used for hire and reward. All city council documentation needs
to be completed for all journeys.
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
12
Mobile Phones
Driver offences and penalties
A specific offence of using a hand-held mobile phone whilst driving has been on the statute books
since 1 December 2003. However, the offence of failing to have proper control of the vehicle is longstanding and may be used to deal with incidents where the driver has been distracted by any
equipment including hands-free mobile phones.
Hand-held equipment
It is an offence to drive a vehicle whilst using a hand-held mobile phone or hand-held
communication device, which transmits or receives data. This data includes:

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phone calls
text messages
facsimile messages
pictures or video/film/TV footage
internet access
The penalties for non-compliance are a fixed penalty of three penalty points and a fine of £60. If the
driver or enforcement officer chooses to take the matter to court, the driver faces a maximum fine of
£2,500 for goods or passenger vehicles with more than eight passenger seats, or £1,000 in any other
case, three penalty points and the possibility of being disqualified from driving. The conviction could
also lead to the suspension or revocation of the driver/supervisor's vocational driving licence by a
Traffic Commissioner. (These penalties were correct when going to press)
Hands-free and other equipment
It is an offence to drive a vehicle in a position which does not give proper control of the vehicle or a
full view of the road and traffic ahead. This long-standing offence covers a multitude of situations,
including being distracted and not having proper control of the vehicle whilst:
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having a conversation on a hands-free phone
pressing the keys on a hands-free phone
eating a sandwich
smoking
talking to passengers in the vehicle
map reading
using satellite navigation systems
using a two-way radio
changing a CD or the radio station
The above offence also requires a full view of the road ahead. A driver may not have a full view
ahead if: a satellite navigation system is poorly placed, interfering with the driver's view to the front


there is ice or mist on the windscreen blocking the view ahead
there are furry dice, Christmas lights or stickers crowding the windscreen
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
13
The penalties are the same overleaf.
Offences
The Road Traffic Act contains other generally more serious offences of careless driving, dangerous
driving and causing death by dangerous driving.
Legislation is also in place to introduce a new offence of causing death by careless driving. Where a
court decides a death is caused by either careless or dangerous driving, the penalties include fines,
disqualification and prison sentences of up to 14 years
Other offences
Where a driver is found guilty of the other generally more serious offences of careless driving,
dangerous driving and causing death by careless or dangerous driving, a person who aids, abets,
councils or procures its commission, commits the same offence.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 requires employers to, as far as is reasonably practicable,
ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employees at work. Under the Management of Health
and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, every employer and self-employed person must make a
suitable and sufficient risk assessment of the health and safety risks to employees (and others not in
his employment to which the undertakings give rise), and to put into place control measures to deal
with those risks. Breaches of health and safety law can lead to both criminal and civil liability. In
other words, an employer who breaks the rules leading to personal injury and/or property damage
can be both prosecuted and sued.
Driving Legislation is also in place to introduce a new offence of causing death by careless driving
where a court decides a death is caused by either careless or dangerous driving the penalties include
fines, disqualification and prison sentences of up to 14 years
The only exception to the rule is when you need to call 999.
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
14
Seatbelts
Wearing a seat belt saves over 2,000 lives every year. Everyone knows they should wear a seat belt
in the front seat, but many people still don’t realise how dangerous it is not to wear a seat belt in the
back.
IN A CRASH AT 30MPH, IF YOU ARE UNRESTRAINED, YOU WILL HIT THE FRONT
SEAT, AND ANYONE IN IT, WITH A FORCE OF BETWEEN 30 AND 60 TIMES YOUR OWN
BODY WEIGHT.
This could result in death or serious injury to you and people sitting in the front seat.
FOR YOUR OWN AND OTHERS’ SAFETY, THE LAW REQUIRES YOU TO USE A SEAT
BELT IF ONE IS FITTED AND FOR CHILDREN UP TO 135CMS IN HEIGHT TO USE A
CHILD RESTRAINT
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
15
The law
You must wear a seat belt in cars and goods vehicles where one is fitted. There are very few
exceptions to this. The driver is liable to prosecution if a child under 14 years does not wear a seat
belt or child restraint. You must not carry an unrestrained child in the front seat of any vehicle.
Children up to 135cms in height must use the appropriate child restraint when travelling in any car,
van or goods vehicle - there are very few exceptions. A child may use an adult belt when they reach
135cm or the age of 12.
In buses and coaches with seat belts fitted, passengers aged 3 years and above must use them.
Child restraints must be used if they are available in the vehicle.
Passengers on vehicles used for public fare-paying passengers on 30mph roads are exempt.
The law is summarised in the table below
Front seat, rear seat, who is responsible?
Driver‘s Seat belt must be worn if fitted
FRONT SEAT
REAR SEAT
WHO IS
RESPONSIBLE?
Driver
Driver
Driver
Child under 3 year of
age
Seat belt must be worn
Correct child restraint
must be used
Child from 3rd birthday
up to 135 cm in height
(approx. 4’5”) for 12th
birthday whichever
they reach first)
Correct child restraint
must be used
Child 12 or 13 or over
135cms (approx.4’ 5”)
in height)
Adult passengers
Adult seat belt must be
worn if available
Correct child restraint
must be used. If one is
not available in a taxi,
may travel unrestrained
Correct child restraint
Driver
must be used where
seat belts fitted. Must
use adult belt in rear
seat if correct child
restraint not available:
in a taxi:
for a short
distance in and
unexpected necessity:
- if two occupies child
restraints prevent
fitting of a third
Adult seat belt must be Driver
worn if available
Seat belt must be worn
If available
Seat belt must be worn
if available
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
Passenger
16
Child Restraint System
Take time to make sure your child restraints are properly fitted every time refer to manufacturers
recommendations
.
(UNECE 44.03
GROUP WEIGHT
RANGE AGE RANGE
Group 1 (eg child seat)
From 15kgs and upwards
From approx 4 years
Group 3 (eg booster cushion)
From 22kgs and upwards
From approx 6 years
APPROX
Child Seat
A child seat is a separate seat secured either by an adult seat belt, or ISOFix attachment points. The
child is then restrained by the seat’s own harness, which has the advantage of being specifically
designed for a child. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions every time when fitting the
child seat.
A child seat harness should include a ‘crotch strap’ which will prevent the child from sliding out feet
first in an accident.
Booster Cushion
This is for a child who is too large for a child seat or booster seat. It is designed to raise a child so
that the adult seat belt can be used safely. It must be used as instructed by the manufacturer.
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
17
A
ccident Procedure
In the event of an accident involving your minibus, you should stop:
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Stop
Do not move the minibus unless dangerous to leave it where it is
Immobilise the minibus
Evacuate the passenger only if there is a risk of fire or further accident
Exit the vehicle if necessary via the nearside door.
Ensure you stand away from the vehicle behind a barrier if possible.
Wear high vis clothing if available.
Alert the other road users
Check carefully for injuries and make passengers comfortable
Give details to anyone having reasonable ground for requiring them
If someone is injured and particulars cannot be exchanged then report to Police as soon as
possible and within 24 hours
Make a note of relevant details (e.g witnesses. time, diagram)
Inform your base
Immediately Report
The accident to your Manager and the Transport Officer and fill in the details on the insurance
accident form:
.
Contact:
Barbara Jervis
01782- 232487
Breakdown
In the event of the minibus breaking down you should ring
Working hours
Out of hours
01782 232203
01782 232211.
Insurance Details
Zurich Insurance Motor claims
Pm O Box 332
Interface Business Park
Swindon
SN4 8XW
Policy Number; QLA 02U0050013
Tel; 0845 3001401
Fax; 023080632738
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
18
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
Health and Safety Legislation refers to:


“employers” and “employees”
“Others affected by the undertaking”
The Health and Safety Executive takes the view that if an organisation exposes volunteers to greater
risks than those faced by employees in the same situation, it would have difficulty in proving that it
had met its duty of care
Good practice = providing the same (high) standard of protection to volunteers and employees doing
the same job
Drivers are entitled to:
 A safe and healthy workplace
 Safe work equipment
 Liability insurance (5+ employees)
 Written safety policy (5+ employees)
 Adequate training and supervision
Employers/Organisations should:




Assess risks of work tasks
Ensure drivers are competent
Set up safe work systems
Set up emergency procedures
Drivers must take reasonable care of:

Their own health and safety
Drivers must:



Follow instructions when using work equipment
Use correctly any personal protective equipment
Report damage to any equipment
Drivers must co-operate with their employer or organisation by informing
them of any:




Dangers to their or others’ Health and Safety
Shortcomings in Health and Safety provision
Injuries that happen at work
Any load-bearing part of a lift platform which fails
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
19
F
irst Aid General Tips
Arrival at the Scene

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Assess the situation
Make the area safe if possible
Ask question about the circumstances
Obtain help from other
Send for help.
Dealing with casualties

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Protect yourself
Check for unconsciousness
Ensure all airway is open and casualty is breathing
Treat in order of priority
Be calm and confident
Make sure the qualified help has been called.
Making the Phone Call

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

State the services required.
Give your phone number
Your location
Type of incident
Number of casualties
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
20
F
irst Aid
(For a more in depth information contact your line manager for First Aid Training)
Remember;
A
Airway
B
Breathing
C
Circulation
The Recovery Position
Kneel beside the person and roll
them on to their side.
Positioning their lower arm and
upper leg at right angles to their
body to stop them rolling
further.
The person is now in the
recovery position. Check their
airway is open.
Do not attempt to lift the person from the floor
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
21
APPENDIX - 1
DRIVER VEHICLE CHECK AND DEFECT REPORT FOR MINIBUSES
Registration Number: ………………………….
To be checked and completed before driving
Brakes - warning devices are
working correctly
Mirrors - condition - security
Interior condition
internal controls are Working
correctly
Number plates - condition - security
Tyres - inflation - damage - wear
Engine Oil/water/fuel - levels leaks
Reflectors - markings - warning
devices
Vehicle/body/wings/guards damage
Horn & Other warnings
Speedometer operation
Wheels - condition - security
Lights - indicators - stoplights
Brake/Handbrake
Windscreen wipers/washers operation - condition
DEFECT REPORT – Record details of any defects found during checks or operation
Write NIL here if no defects found:
Print Name :
Driver’s Signature:
Date:
Contact no.
Odometer Reading Out
Odometer Reading In
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
22
Conclusion
If at any time you are unsure about any transportation queries, you must contact your line manager
who will advise the correct procedure.
Driver Training Unit
Weighbridge Site
Cromer Road
Northwoood
Stoke on Trent
Staffs
ST1 6QN
Tel: 01782 233405
Fax: 01782 234011
Minibus Driver’s Handbook 2008
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