Operating Bus
- 1/30If you are operating a passenger bus in Oman
Oman law requires buses to meet strict technical specs, including dual doors, emergency exits, fixed seats, and visibility features for safe passenger movement.
When picking up or dropping off passengers
Activate hazard lights when picking up school children. Always check mirrors and never move the bus while passengers are boarding or alighting.
If passengers are boarding or exiting
Ensure steps and walkways are clear. Use mirror checks to monitor near-side and rear door mirrors to avoid accidents during boarding.
At the beginning of each shift
Before driving, inspect seats, doors, mirrors, emergency exits, lights, and interior cleanliness. These checks are mandatory for safe operation.
When children or elderly passengers are on board
Children and seniors require extra care. Smooth acceleration, gentle stops, and secure seating ensure a safe journey.
If your bus is involved in a traffic incident
Stop safely, turn on hazard lights, and evacuate if necessary. Report the incident to Royal Oman Police 9999 and follow emergency protocol.
When approaching school zones or crowded areas
Bus drivers must drive slowly, especially near schools, markets, or crossings. Be ready to stop if children or pedestrians are near the road.
If an emergency exit is blocked
Emergency exits must remain accessible at all times. If blocked, assist passengers and notify maintenance or authorities without delay.
When loading passengers at night or in low visibility
Ensure bus lights and reflectors are working. Park in safe, well-lit areas and keep entry steps illuminated to prevent trips and falls.
At roundabouts or sharp curves
Buses have a high center of gravity. Reduce speed to avoid passenger falls or bus rollover, and avoid sudden turns or sharp steering.
If the bus breaks down while in service
Move to the shoulder or a safe area. Inform passengers calmly and call for assistance or a replacement bus if needed.
When passengers are standing
Standing passengers are vulnerable to falls. Smooth driving is essential, especially during turns, stops, and lane changes.
If mirrors are misaligned or visibility is poor
Bus drivers must ensure full visibility using flat and convex mirrors. Dirty or misaligned mirrors compromise safety and must be fixed.
At the end of each shift
Conduct a walk-around to check for new damage, leaks, or faults. Log all issues for maintenance before the next trip.
If operating a school bus
School buses must display School Transport signs, activate hazard lights at stops, and avoid moving until all students are clear of the vehicle.
If a passenger requests an unauthorized stop
Stopping in unauthorized or unsafe areas violates transport regulations. Passengers must be let off only where permitted.
When reversing a bus
Buses have large blind spots. Reverse only when necessary, using rear-view mirrors and spotters to avoid collisions.
If your route passes through tunnels or overpasses
Ensure the bus does not exceed clearance limits. Use dipped headlights and maintain a steady speed inside tunnels.
When passengers are seated with seatbelts
Passengers in seatbelt-equipped buses must remain seated and belted while the vehicle is in motion, as per safety guidelines.
At major intersections or roundabouts
Bus drivers must maintain lane discipline, reduce speed, and yield to the right unless otherwise directed by signage.
If operating during school hours in urban areas
During school hours, use only designated bus routes and maintain low speed near school entrances and pedestrian crossings.
If air conditioning or ventilation fails
Inform passengers, improve airflow by opening windows, and report the malfunction immediately to maintenance at the next stop or shift end.
When navigating narrow streets or sharp turns
Sharp turns and narrow roads require precise steering and full mirror use to avoid hitting curbs, walls, or parked vehicles.
If a passenger is injured or becomes unwell during transit
Pull over, check the passenger condition, call emergency services if necessary, and inform dispatch of the delay.
When your bus crosses a railway track
Even if no signals are present, always check both directions for trains. Cross quickly and without stopping once the track is clear.
At bus terminals or depots
Use low speed within terminals, avoid blocking other bays, and report to supervisors if any issue arises during arrival or departure.
When idling for more than a few minutes
Prolonged idling is discouraged in Oman. It contributes to pollution and can lead to overheating in hot climates.
If fare collection equipment fails
If automated systems malfunction, allow boarding if permitted by company policy and document the issue for repair.
If passengers argue or become disruptive
Do not intervene physically. Pull over if necessary, keep doors locked, and call ROP 9999 if the situation escalates.
When visibility is poor due to weather
In fog, dust, or rain, slow down, increase following distance, and use lights and wipers to maintain safe operation.