Page 216 - Dubai Universal Design Code

13. School Buses

13.1. Considerations

A variety of vehicles are suitable to be used for accessible school transportation. This
includes low floor 10 meters long regular coaches, low floor 6.7 meters long medium
size buses, and low floor accessible taxis.

The school shall establish responsibility for the provision of services with the school bus
operator. A special dispatch center shall coordinate scheduling and coordinate with
parents in case of cancellations, emergencies and extreme weather. The use of the Nol
card for students with functional limitations shall be implemented with a discount fare.

For students with functional limitations, in particular those with mobility impairments,
transportation to and from school present a major obstacle due to the lack of accessible
school bus vehicles. As an alternative, accessible taxis can be used.

Drivers shall be trained for hands-on instruction on how to achieve effective securement
and occupant restraint.

The major obstacles for the school bus mode are the horizontal and vertical gaps
between the vehicle and the road. Students using walkers and wheelchairs require
boarding and securement systems. On board safety, emergency and evacuation/rescue
instructions in multiple formats throughout the vehicle are required to make the trip safe,
secure and stress-free for all students.

Access to an accessible school bus shall be universal and apply to the dimensions and
maneuvering characteristics of all persons using mobility aids, luggage, prams/ strollers,
service animals, including persons with vision, hearing and cognitive disabilities.

13.2. Boarding and alighting

13.2.1. Vehicle type

Accessible school buses shall have a front and center low floor section with kneeling
capability.

13.2.2. Doors

The door opening control shall be placed on the outside of the accessible door at a
maximum height of 1200 mm from the bus floor, and be operated by touch.

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