Bus Modification to Improve Safety,Comfort,and Human Reliability

Abstract

The MITRE Corporation has made a preliminary analysis of the needs of bus patrons, with emphasis on the needs of the disabled. This analysis, based on observations and consultation with specialists was used to derive human performance requirements for average, aged and disabled patrons, and for the driver.

The bus modification kits described are intended to increase human reliability and safety. To accomplish this the kits should improve: Information on the identification of buses, routes, and destinations; access, equilibrium, and egress for the disabled, with a minimum of assistance; recognition and use of emergency exits; nighttime visual access for drivers and patrons; familiarity with vehicle accessories; and safety under mobile or emergency conditions.

Modification kits are evaluated on the basis of effectiveness, and costs of research, development, production, and installation. Since it may be impractical to install all kits immediately, they are recommended for implementation on the basis of effect on utility of transportation for the aged and disabled. The following kits meet this criterion: Public Address, Route Identification, Handrails, Stanchions, Raised Seat, and Extended Step.

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References

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“Accessibility of the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Public Transportation System to the Handicapped and Elderly,” Abt Associates, Inc. for the Department of Tranportation Office of Environmental Affairs, DOT-OS-20022, February 1974.

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“Design and Performance Criteria for Improved Non-rail Urban Mass Transit Vehicles and Related Urban Transportation Systems,” Highway Research Board, 4 April 1968.

11.

Hoel

L. A.

, Latent Demand for Urban Transportation, Transportation Research Institute, Carnegie-Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.