Precious cargo

Raising the bar for school transport

^{Delivering safer school transport via accreditation}

In an industry where every journey really counts, school bus operators are facing a critical wake-up call. Recent data shows nearly a third of serious road traffic collisions involve professional drivers. So, at FORS, we believe school transport is a sector ripe for an accreditation scheme which can deliver significant safety improvements.

Current regulations leave a dangerous gap. Unlike other commercial vehicle operations, school transport often slides under the radar of comprehensive, independent safety management.

Troubling landscape
While schools diligently assess risks for on-site activities, the complexities of external transport safety remain largely unaddressed.

The current landscape reveals a troubling reality. Many schools still select transport providers based on superficial criteria like seat comfort or basic behaviour management. What's overlooked are the critical safety fundamentals; vehicle maintenance, driver competency and rigorous operational standards.

An O-Licence is not a guarantee of excellence. Just as restaurants can operate with poor hygiene ratings, bus operators can continue providing school transport without meeting optimal safety standards. This regulatory loophole puts children at unnecessary risk.

Independent accreditation would change this dynamic, providing a transparent, measurable framework that goes beyond minimum legal requirements. Operators are challenged to demonstrate ongoing commitment to safety, not just pass a one-time inspection.

^{Photo credit | Jackie Davies - stock.adobe.com}

The accreditation solution
Enter independent accreditation schemes like FORS which could add real expertise, training and guidance for transport safety.

It is not merely a bureaucratic checkbox – FORS could provide a comprehensive framework that drills down into three critical areas; safer operations, increased efficiency and greater environmental protection.

What might it look like?
For bus operators, FORS accreditation would deliver:

- Regular independent audits of fleet management processes.
- Rigorous driver checks, including DVLA licence verification.
- Mandatory medical fitness assessments.
- Comprehensive road risk management training.
- Systematic vehicle inspections beyond basic roadworthiness.

Critically, this isn't just about compliance – it's also about delivering a competitive advantage. Operators embracing these areas can differentiate themselves in a crowded market; schools and local authorities are increasingly looking beyond price, prioritising providers who can prove their credentials concerning safety, sustainability and more besides.

The financial benefits are tangible. Accredited operators would typically see reduced maintenance costs, lower accident rates, and enhanced operational efficiency. It's a win-win strategy that transforms safety from a cost centre to a strategic asset.

Demand higher standards
The message is clear. The school transport sector must evolve. Local authorities have the purchasing power to demand higher standards, while operators have the opportunity to lead by example. Through independent accreditation, the industry can create a robust, transparent framework that simplifies procurement, reduces risk and, most importantly, protects the most precious cargo of all – our children.

The road to safer school transport starts here.

This isn't just about compliance – it's also about delivering a competitive advantage.