Page 9 - TRSSL Handbook Flip

being driven by volunteer drivers. There are no record keeping Hiring Minibuses • Before driving the minibus, in the presence of the hirer’s
requirements under these rules. representative, carry out a thorough check for any damage Safety
Many organisations will, sooner or later, need to hire a or defects and check the for the presence of compulsory Safety
IMPORTANT: All drivers should be aware of the risks to passenger minibus for their planned trip. It is unlikely that any equipment such as a fire extinguisher and first aid kit.
safety which can result from driving when tired. It is not sensible to responsible hire company will rent out a minibus without Failing to do this may result in the minibus being driven
embark on a long trip after a full day’s work, whether that work several requirements first being met.
involves driving or not. Breaks should be built into journey planning - illegally or your organisation being charged for damage Daily Safety Checks
aim to have a break from driving of at least 10 minutes every two hours. caused by a previous customer.
• Be prepared to produce both the plastic and counterpart
Although drivers are not required to complete a record book if licence of all drivers who will be driving the minibus. • Remember that the driver is responsible for the Is the vehicle you are about to drive safe? Regardless of who
working solely within the UK, they must not exceed the maximum roadworthiness of the minibus. is responsible for the maintenance of a minibus, it is the driver
permitted driving periods and must comply with the rest • Determine whose insurance will cover the use of the who is responsible for the roadworthiness of a minibus while it
requirements. minibus, the hire company’s or your organisation. • Make sure you are familiar with all the controls, is being driven.
dimensions and weight of the minibus before leaving the Every day of minibus driving should begin with a thorough
Maximum driving period 5.5 hours • Declare honestly the purpose for which the minibus is hire company premises. vehicle safety check. POWDER is an acronym that may be
Minimum break 30 minutes or 45 minutes with 8.5 hours being hired; some hire companies will not hire a minibus used to cover the basics.
that the client intends to use for commercial hire or • Before returning the minibus make sure that all items
Maximum daily driving 10 hours
reward without extra conditions being applied. belonging to your organisation, including the Section 19
petrol or diesel; check the fuel type, where the filler is
Maximum daily duty period 16 hours Permit (if applicable), have been removed. P
• Make sure that you have the documentation for the hire located and whether there is sufficient for the journey.
For more advice on the commercial or international operation agreement with you during the journey.
O
of minibuses please contact The Road Safety Solution Finally remembering the old adage, ‘leave it as you would oil; this may include engine oil, brake fluid and power
info@trssl.co.uk. • Make sure that you have the contact details for the hire expect to find it’, make the effort to clean the minibus, steering fluid.
water; this includes engine coolant and windscreen
company and information about what to do in the event at least on the inside, before you hand it back. W
of a breakdown or collision. washer fluid.
Alcohol
D
• Tell the hirer if you intend to take the minibus outside the damage; primarily look for significant damage that
It is an offence for any person to consume alcohol while UK. Extra documentation will be required and there will might cause danger to others, but also for any damage
travelling in a minibus! This regulation is worth emphasising at also be a requirement for extra equipment to be installed that might not have been reported by the previous user.
the start of a journey rather than after consumption of alcohol on the minibus. electrics; this will include all the lights, wipers, horn and
has commenced! E
reversing warning, if fitted.
R tread depth
rubber; primarily check tyres for

8 (1mm), 9
inflation, sidewalls. Also check wiper-blades, hoses,
drive-belts