Planning transport

Transport is a logistical necessity for much outdoor learning but creative planning can minimise its use. Vehicle travel is often the most potentially hazardous part of an outdoor learning experience.

This health and safety guidance explains the importance of the following issues when planning transportation:

General

When possible, follow the local authority transport policy.

The group leader must consider:

• passenger safety
• the competence, training and licensing of the driver
• the number of driving hours required for the journey
• the need to avoid driver fatigue
• the type of journey
• likely traffic and weather conditions
• arrangements in case of breakdown/emergency
• appropriate insurance cover.

Legislation

The driver is responsible for the vehicle during the visit.

Seat belts must be used at all times.

Supervision on transport

The risk assessment for the journey should consider the appropriate form of supervision.

Drivers should not normally be responsible for supervision except for responsible groups on short journeys.

All group members should be made aware of:

• the position of the emergency door, first aid and anti-fire equipment
• action in an emergency.

Further information is available in the Supervision section.

Group leaders should make plans for:

• appropriate rest stops
• the safety of the group in the event of an accident or breakdown
• frequent head counts when the group is getting on or off transport
• checking that seat belts are fastened
• vetting non-leader drivers.

Hiring coaches and buses

Take advice and hire from a reputable, licensed company.

Whilst seat belts must be fitted on coaches which carry groups of children, they are not legally required on buses.

Buses where seat belts are not fitted are not normally appropriate for excursions involving long journeys.

Wheelchair access should be considered as necessary.

Transport in the establishment minibus

The minibus driver must:

• observe local authority or other guidance, where appropriate
• not drive when taking medication or suffering from a condition that might affect their ability or judgement
• know what to do in an emergency
• avoid fatigue
• comply with transport regulations and the requirements of the vehicle’s insurance cover.

Maintenance and checks of the establishment minibus

Follow the local authority recommendations on vehicle checks and journey logging.

Further guidance

This guidance is aimed primarily at teachers and other leaders providing outdoor learning experiences to children and young people. The advice is not comprehensive but aims to cover 90% of the most common outdoor learning situations

More extensive guidance can be found:

• by utilising specialist advice from your local authority
• in 'Health and Safety on Educational Excursions'.

Further information

See chapter 6 - Planning transport:

• General (para 119)
• Legislation (120-122)
• Supervision on transport (123-125)
• Hiring coaches and buses (126-127)
• Licences and permits (128-131)
• Private cars (132-134)
• Transport in the establishment minibus (135)
• Establishment minibus driver (136-137)
• Maintenance and checks of the establishment minibus (138)