This paper reports on research to determine appropriate technical standards for introducing seat belts on minibuses, which conform to European rules for home-to-school contracts, and the development of a suitable policy framework to implement these standards. It gives some details of the relevant standards for seat belts, seats, and seat and belt anchorages, which are given in ECE regulations and European Community (EC) Directives. Seat belt wearing requirements for children and adults have been progressively introduced in the UK during the last 20 Years. Key issues for seat belts in school transport vehicles include: (1) three-for-two seating; (2) technical feasibility; (3) belt type; (4) wearing belt type; (4) wearing requirement; (5) liability and insurance; (6) operation outside public service vehicle (PSV) operation; (7) equity; and (8) cost. To determine the minimum standards to be applied, Berkshire County Council in England adopted the following approach: (1) three-point rather than lap belts; (2) use of a proven seat anchorage system; (3) strong seats; and (4) incorporation of anchorages in seat belt design. The corresponding test specifications and test loads are detailed; their cost implications for local authorities are high.
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