UAE Ministry of Interior and Sharjah Authorities Issue School Bus Safety Guidelines

What Happened

• The UAE Ministry of Interior launched the “Safe Roads for Our Students” campaign through the Federal Traffic Council in September [1].
• This campaign is a four-month initiative designed to increase awareness of safe practices for students, parents, drivers, and supervisors [1].
• In Sharjah, the Child Safety Department (CSD), an affiliate of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, organized the second edition of the “School Bus Safety Golden Rules” workshop at Al Qasimia University [2].
• Up to 1,200 bus drivers and supervisors from public and private schools in Sharjah participated in the training [2].
• Participation in the Sharjah workshop increased by 33.3 per cent compared to the previous year [2].
• The workshop was led by representatives from Sharjah Police, Emirates Transport, and Sharjah Civil Defence [2].
• According to the Ministry of Interior, motorists who fail to stop in both directions when a school bus stop arm is extended face a Dh1,000 fine and 10 traffic points [1].
• School bus drivers who do not activate the bus stop sign face a Dh500 fine and six traffic points [1].

Who Is Affected

• Students: Must arrive at waiting areas five minutes before the bus, remain calm, avoid distracting drivers, stay seated, and wear seat belts [1]. After disembarking, they should move 10 steps away from the bus [1].
• Parents: Should accompany children to the bus, ensure a designated person is there to receive them upon return, and remain available for calls from the school or supervisor [1].
• Bus Supervisors: Must assist children during boarding and disembarking, monitor behavior, record absences for school administration, and inspect the vehicle at the end of every trip to ensure no child is left on board [1].
• School Administrations: Are advised to designate safe boarding and drop-off zones, monitor staff and students, and notify parents if a student is absent or fails to board the bus [1].
• Bus Drivers: Must perform daily inspections for roadworthiness, stop in safe locations, activate the “Stop” sign, and wait until all children have boarded or disembarked before moving [1].
• Motorists: Must come to a complete stop in both directions when a school bus stop arm is extended [1].
• Sharjah Transport Staff: 1,200 drivers and supervisors from public and private schools in Sharjah attended the safety workshop [2].

What Students Should Do Next

• Reach the bus waiting area five minutes before the scheduled arrival time [1].
• Move at least 10 steps away from the bus immediately after getting off to avoid risks while the vehicle is moving [1].
• Remain seated and wear seat belts throughout the entire journey [1].