BC Transit
XCELSIOR Manual
February 2014
#22250662
1
HEALTH AND SAFETY STATEMENT
be required to follow all safe work procedures, and report all
unsafe working conditions.
At BC Transit, we are driven by safety throughout all of our
operations. We believe that it is our responsibility to care for
our employees, our customers and the communities in which
we serve. Safety is our first priority.
Becoming the first Crown Corporation in British Columbia to
earn the Certificate of Recognition from WorkSafeBC is something
we should all be proud of. Safety is everyone’s responsibility and
together, we are building a World Class Work Safe environment.
As part of this commitment we:
Our safety program is as strong as the commitment we each
bring to it. Please join me in making a personal commitment
and continue making safety a way of life.
• Empower our employees to react to potential safety issues;
• Ensure our established safety procedures are followed by
all employees;
• Make regular and thorough inspections of our equipment
and work areas;
March 1, 2014
• Train our employees;
• Meet or exceed existing government regulatory requirements;
• Respond to emergency situations quickly and diligently; and,
Manuel Achadinha
President and Chief Executive Officer
BC Transit
• Strive for continuous improvement in our safety and
health programs.
We believe that all accidents are caused–they don’t just happen.
Our objectives are to seek out these causes, devise protective
measures, and promote a safety-minded work attitude at all
levels within the organization.
The safety information in this
statement does not take precedence
over Occupational Health and Safety
legislation and regulations, or the
Workers Compensation Act.
The leadership team, directors and managers provide support
to ensure a safe work program. Supervisors will conduct
accident investigations, and lead by example. Employees will
1
YOUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS MATTERS
• Walking helps to relax your back
after your shift
Are You Driving in the Right Position?
A Better Way to Work
BC Transit wants you to maintain a healthy approach to driving.
The following tips will help to reduce fatigue and improve your
reaction time:
• Remove contents from back pockets and sit with your weight
centred evenly between your hips
• Relax your shoulders and keep them in line with your ears
• Position your seat so your feet easily reach the foot pedals
• Tilt the seat so your knees are slightly lower than your hips
• Adjust your back rest to support your back in a slightly relaxed
position (this forms an approximate angle of 80 to 85 degrees
between your hips and torso)
• Adjust femur support at the bottom of the seat to support your
legs without contacting the hollow directly behind the knee
• Adjust the head rest so it contacts the head just below
the bump on the back of your head
• Position the steering wheel so your hands hold the wheel
at the 9 and 3 position and you have a 90 degree bend at
the elbow
• Throughout your day, make adjustments to remain balanced
and comfortable
• Take a number of 30 to 60 second “micro-breaks” throughout
your shift to stimulate bloodflow and make an effort to leave
your seat during longer breaks
You know your body better than anyone
else but there are some basics that all of
us share for health and well-being. The
following tips will help you every day.
• Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty
of water
• Wash your hands frequently
• Get regular exercise to keep your
muscles flexible and in good condition
• At the beginning of a shift, do some simple stretches
• When doing your pre-trip kneel on one knee to check tires
instead of bending at the hip
• When lifting the engine hood, test the weight first– always
protect your back
• Throughout the day, whenever you have a free moment from
driving step out of the bus and stretch your shoulders, back
and other areas
• Feeling overwhelmed or stressed? It happens. Check with
your property for services offered
See the next page for stretching exercises
2
squeezingtheshoulderbladestogetherandsticking
thechestout.
• Repeatthroughoutthedaytohelprelievetiredor
soremusclesorjoints.
Basic stretching principles
Stretch and Bend for a Better Back
•
•
•
•
Maintainrelaxedbreathingthroughoutthestretch.
Gentlymoveintothestretch.
Atfirstsignoftension,holdpositionfor20–30seconds.
Relaxandrepeatthehold2–3times.Repeaton
oppositeside.
Basic posture
•
•
•
•
Keepyourchingentlytucked.
Headoveryourshoulderswhenseated–don’tslump!
Alumbarsupportbehindyourlowerbackhelps.
Practiseholdingtheshouldersbackbysittingtall,
squeezingtheshoulderbladestogetherandsticking
thechestout.
• Repeatthroughoutthedaytohelprelievetiredor
soremusclesorjoints.
• Standwithonefootona
• Holdhandstogetherbehind • Standandgrasponeankle
withyourhand(orplacethe
chairorbench.
yourback.
raisedfootonachairiftoo
• Flexankle,keepingthe
• Gentlypullyourchinin
• Tiltyouroneeartoward
Maintainrelaxedbreathingthroughoutthestretch.
awkwardtograb).
legstraight,pushheelinto
towardyourhands,hold
theshoulder.
• Pointkneedownwhile
thechair/bench.
position.
Gentlymoveintothestretch.
• Gentlyraiseyourchin
bringingtheankletoward
•
Bendforwardathips,
towardtheceiling.
•
Raiseelbowsupandback,
Atfirstsignoftension,holdpositionfor20–30seconds.
yourbottom.
keepingthebackstraight.
keepelbowsoutwide.
• Thiswillstretchthe
Relaxandrepeatthehold2–3times.Repeaton
• Maintaingoodbackposture • Stretchshouldbefeltinthe
• Gentlystretchoverthetop
otherside.
oppositeside.
(donotoverextendinthe
backofthelegandknee.
ofachairifable.
lowback).
• Claspyourhandsbehind
yourneck.
Basic stretching principles
•
•
•
•
Bend for a Better Back
Basic posture
•
•
•
•
Keepyourchingentlytucked.
Headoveryourshoulderswhenseated–don’tslump!
Alumbarsupportbehindyourlowerbackhelps.
Practiseholdingtheshouldersbackbysittingtall,
squeezingtheshoulderbladestogetherandsticking
• Standwithonefootona
• thechestout.
Claspyourhandsbehind
• Holdhandstogetherbehind • Standandgrasponeankle
• Standinacornerorina
• Standorsit.
chairorbench.
withyourhand(orplacethe
yourneck.
yourback.
• Repeatthroughoutthedaytohelprelievetiredor
doorframe.
raisedfootonachairiftoo
• Graspelbowwithother
• Flexankle,keepingthe
• soremusclesorjoints.
Gentlypullyourchinin
• Tiltyouroneeartoward
towardyourhands,hold
theshoulder.
position.
•
Basic stretching principlesGentlyraiseyourchin
• Raiseelbowsupandback,
towardtheceiling.
• Maintainrelaxedbreathingthroughoutthestretch.
keepelbowsoutwide.
• Thiswillstretchthe
•• Gentlymoveintothestretch.
Gentlystretchoverthetop
otherside.
ofachairifable.
• Atfirstsignoftension,holdpositionfor20–30seconds.
• Relaxandrepeatthehold2–3times.Repeaton
oppositeside.
• Standstraightwithfeet
shoulderwidthapart.
awkwardtograb). • Raiseshouldersandelbows
handandgentlypullitback. • Supportyourbackwith
legstraight,pushheelinto
yourhands.
• Pointkneedownwhileto90degrees,handson
thechair/bench.
• Leanawaytostretchyour
thewall.• Bendforwardathips, entiresideaswell.
bringingtheankletoward
• Leanbackasfarastolerable.
yourbottom.
• Leanforwardintothe
keepingthebackstraight.
• Breathein,thenbreatheout • Keepyourkneesstraight.
cornerorthroughthedoor.
• Maintaingoodbackposture
andincreasethestretch.
• Stretchshouldbefeltinthe
(donotoverextendinthe
• Gentlypushthearmsback.
backofthelegandknee.
lowback).
• Sitonachair.
• Takeholdofthebackof
thechairorarmrest.
• Lookoveryourshoulderwhile
turningyourupperbody.
• Keepkneespointingforward.
Linking Communities, Businesses & Lifestyles
3
CNG Information
CNG
Information
CNG Information
COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS AS A FUEL
GENERAL SAFETY
Natural gas is a simple hydrocarbon, similar in composition
to diesel, but richer in hydrogen.
Natural gas has long had a proven record as a safe vehicle fuel.
A recent U.S. survey examined 1,700 collisions of natural gaspowered fleet vehicles that have occurred since 1970. They
found that there had never been a fire involving the natural
gas systems of these vehicles.
Natural gas contains no toxic compounds. In its pure state, it
is odourless and colourless. To ensure gas leaks can be easily
detected, a compound called ethyl mercaptan is added to the
fuel. Mercaptan contains sulfur, which gives it the odour of
rotten eggs. Gas concentrations as small as 0.5% (too small
to ignite) can be identified by this unpleasant odour.
Two specific qualities ensure that natural gas is a superior fuel
for public transit:
• Because it is lighter than air, natural gas rises and dissipates
to the atmosphere when escaping containment
Occasional handling or breathing of this fuel is not hazardous
to your health. However, heavy concentrations may result in
symptoms relating to depleted oxygen, including headaches,
dizziness, fatigue and nausea. In severe cases, natural gas may
cause asphyxiation.
• Natural gas requires a heat source of 649°C for ignition, while
the ignition temperatures of diesel and gasoline are much lower
CNG FUEL SYSTEM
The Xcelsior bus stores natural gas in six roof-mounted tanks
at a maximum pressure of 3,600 psi. During the delivery process,
CNG is decompressed and regulated before entering the engine’s
air-fuel mixer.
NOTE: During a typical day’s work,
you may need to call for assistance.
Depending on how you have been trained,
you would call Control, logistics, a supervisor,
a manager, or your depot office.
The system uses a high pressure regulator and a zero pressure
regulator to reduce line pressure from 3,600 psi to 125 psi. This
pressure reduction causes a drastic temperature drop in the
system due to CNG expansion. A flow of engine coolant through
the regulator prevents ice from forming which would restrict or
stop the flow of gas.
In this manual, we have used Control as
an all-inclusive term to refer to any of
the above contacts.
4
CNG Information
SAFETY DEVICES
Pressure Relief Devices (PRD)
Pressure relief devices are heat-sensitive. If a fire should
occur on the bus, these devices open, allowing gas to
release from the roof-mounted tanks to the atmosphere
before the flames reach the tanks. When the PRDs activate,
you will hear a loud hissing sound of releasing gas. PRD
vent lines must be capped to prevent moisture from
entering the fuel system.
Proximity Switch
To prevent the engine from running during refuelling, the
fill box contains a proximity switch, which shuts down the
engine when the filler door is open.
Quarter-turn Shut-off Valve
This is a red-handled switch located in the fill box. It allows
manual control of the flow of fuel to the engine. In normal
vehicle operation the switch is vertical, parallel to the gas
line. In emergency situations, turn the handle right onequarter turn to the closed position. This will stop the flow
of fuel.
Pressure relief devices (PRD)
Proximity switch
Quarter-turn shut-off
valve in OPEN position
Quarter-turn shut-off
valve in CLOSED position
5
CNG Information
Fire Suppression and Gas Detection System
A fire, gas leak or component failure shows up on the detection
panel as a lit indicator beside the heading FIRE or GAS. An alarm
sounds as a further warning. During a pre-trip inspection, press
the test/reset button to test the monitoring system. The detection
indicators should illuminate and the audio alarm should sound,
indicating proper monitor functioning.
The major components of the fire suppression and gas
detection system are:
• Fire and gas leak protection panel
• Four discharge nozzles in the engine compartment
• Three heat sensors in the engine compartment
Fire Suppression System
The purpose of this system is to protect the passengers and
vehicle from smoke and fire. It operates by reading signals sent
by sensors in the engine compartment. These sensors detect the
infrared wavelengths and excess heat given off by fire. The system
reads the sensor signals and reacts to suppress the fire.
• Extinguishing agent cylinder in the rear streetside
overhead light compartment
• Manual actuator switch in the operator’s area
• Four gas sniffers – two in the rooftop fuel tank bay,
one in the rooftop A/C compartment, and one in
the engine compartment
Manual Actuator Switch
The manual actuator switch is located in the operator’s overhead
panel. In the rare case when the fire suppression system does not
operate automatically, use this switch to manually discharge the
extinguishing agent into the engine compartment.
General Safety
Natural gas has a proven record as a safe vehicle fuel. If you are
involved in a collision, you must contact Control and submit a
BC Transit Incident Report.
Fire suppression and gas
detection system
NOTE: If a CNG bus is involved in a collision,
regulations require it must be inspected by
a CNG-certified mechanic or inspector before
it is put back into service.
Manual
actuator switch
6
Pre-Trip
Inspection Safety
Trip Inspection
Pre-Trip Inspection Safety
BC TRANSIT IS COMMITTED TO A SAFE WORK ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL EMPLOYEES.
To foster this environment this protocol is to be followed when a bus fails a pre-trip inspection due to a safety issue.
• When you are assigned a bus you must inspect the vehicle
before operation
• If the bus is deemed unsafe it is booked off to maintenance
until the repair is completed
• If the vehicle fails the pre-trip inspection due to a safety
concern, identify the safety concern in specific detail on the
BC Transit Trip Inspection Report and submit it to the garage
immediately to see if another bus is required (this decision
is made between the operator and maintenance personnel)
• Any bus that is declined for safety reasons must be identified
through your manager
• Safety and training staff will follow up with you after the issue
has been audited
• If a change-off is necessary, you will be assigned a new bus
when the report is submitted
• The report will be forwarded to maintenance and the bus
will be inspected immediately
• Safety-related defects must be reviewed by a licensed
mechanic, supervisor or fleet inspector
• Ergonomic safety observations must be reviewed through
your manager
• If the bus is deemed safe by a qualified person it will be
released for service
7
Pre-Trip Inspection Safety
QUARTER-TURN SHUT-OFF VALVE
BATTERY CUT-OFF SWITCH
The quarter-turn shut-off valve is located in the rear
curbside panel.
The battery cut-off access door is located in the lower rear
curbside panel behind the rear wheel.
Quarter-Turn shut-off valve
Battery cut-off switch
8
Pre-Trip Inspection Safety
It is Necessary to Conduct a Pre-Trip Inspection
of the Bus Prior to Entering Service
• Check the pressure gauge reading. The high pressure gauge
should show 1,500 to 3,600 psi. If the gauge reading is below
1,500 psi, call Control immediately
CNG OPERATION CHECKS
• Low pressure gauge reading should be 94 to 120 psi. Record
the pressure readings on the trip inspection report above
the odometer reading. If the pressure reading is outside this
range, call Control immediately
• Conduct a visual check of the CNG fuel system before
starting the vehicle
• Conduct a smell check for any leaking gas
• Ensure the dust cover is on both filler receptacles
• Ensure the CNG door is closed after the inspection. If it is not
fully closed, the bus will not start
NOTE: Gas can be smelled at a very low
concentration of only 0.5%, which is not
enough to activate the gas sensors.
CONTINUE PRE-TRIP INSPECTION
If you smell gas,
DO NOT OPERATE THE VEHICLE.
• Open the battery cut-off access door in the side panel
on the rear curbside of the vehicle. Switch to ON position
Check the fire and gas leak protection panel in the
operator’s compartment. A green light indicates
there is no gas leak on your bus. A red light indicates
there is a leak. The display panel works with the battery
cut-off switch in both ON and OFF positions.
• Enter driver’s compartment. Turn master run switch to DAY
RUN. Start engine. Turn master run switch to NIGHT RUN
• Check dash warning lights and gauges
• Check air pressure gauges
Regardless of what the display panel displays,
report any smell of gas to Control in person.
• Activate an all-lights procedure: apply both left and right
foot signal buttons simultaneously and turn on four-way
flashers. All lights including backup lights and beeper will
remain on for two minutes. You can cancel this procedure
at any time by shifting the transmission into gear
• Open the CNG door and ensure the quarter-turn
shut-off valve (red handle) is ON. The handle should be
parallel to the fuel line
9
Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
EXTERIOR
• Right side mirror
• Headlights (if a headlight
needs replacing, contact
garage and have garage
personnel replace it while
completing your inspection)
• CVIP (Commercial Vehicle
Inspection Program) decal
expiry date
• Left clearance lights
• Engine oil
• Coolant level
• Belts, hoses and connections
• Transmission fluid level
• Left rear tires, rims, lug nuts,
wheel nut pointers, hub
• Compartment doors
• Right front turn signal
• Bike rack
• Licence plate and light
• Windshield and front body –
unmarked damage
• Rear window and body –
unmarked damage
• Windshield wipers
• Right side body –
unmarked damage
• Destination sign
• Right rear tires, rims, lug nuts,
wheel nut pointers, hub
• Left mirror
• Right side windows
• Left side body –
unmarked damage
• Right clearance lights
• Front clearance lights
If relevant to your workplace,
open engine compartment
and check:
• Left side windows
• Rear lights – clearance
lights, tail lights, stop lights,
four-way flashers, backup
lights and beeper
• Left front turn signal
ENGINE COMPARTMENT
• Left front tire, rim, lug nuts,
wheel nut pointers, hub
Oil dip stick
Coolant fluid
• Right front tire, rim, lug nuts,
wheel nut pointers, hub
Transmission fluid
10
Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
INTERIOR
Fire Suppression & Gas
Detection System
• Check the fire and gas leak
protection panel, located in
the operator’s overhead panel
NOTE: The fire suppression display
works with the battery cut-off switch
in both ON and OFF positions
• Passenger seats and
stanchions
• Mobility aid securement
equipment
• Insurance paperwork
• The system OK indicator
should be lit. Call Control if
any red or yellow indicator
lights are on.
• Fire extinguisher, including
expiry date
• Ensure the safety pin on the
manual actuator switch is
securely installed
• Wiper controls
• Press the test/reset switch.
The detection indicators
should illuminate and the
audio alarm should sound,
indicating proper monitor
functioning
Fire suppression display panel
Interior Check
• Emergency triangles
• Door controls
• Horn
• Turn on PA, interior lights,
defrost, climate control
• Adjust seat & steering wheel
• Adjust interior, exterior
mirrors (If necessary, kneel
the bus to manually adjust
curbside mirror)
• Fully kneel the vehicle.
Deploy and stow ramp.
Raise to normal level
• First aid kit if applicable
• Emergency exits
11
Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
AIR BRAKE CHECK
Maximize Air Pressure
Start the engine and let
the compressor build air
to maximum pressure.
Compressor Cooling Test
Fan the brakes down 10 psi.
Wait 2-3 seconds. The air
gauge needle should not
move, indicating that the
compressor is remaining
in the cooling stage.
Compressor Loading Test
Fan the brakes down an
additional 10 psi or more.
The air gauge needle should
move, indicating that the
compressor has restarted
the loading stage.
Air Leak Test
Dynamite Test
Service Brake Test
Ensure the air gauge is
registering 100 psi or more.
(If not, wait for pressure to
build.) Release parking brake.
Turn the master run switch
to STOP ENGINE. When you
hear the seat alarm, switch
to DAY RUN or NIGHT RUN.
The seat alarm should turn
off. Make a full brake application and hold for one
minute. Listen for air leaks
and check the air gauges.
After the initial brake application, there should be no
more than 3 psi lost during
the one-minute test.
Fan down the service brakes
until the parking brakes
dynamite. This should happen
no lower than between 45
and 20 psi.
Release the parking brake.
Shift to DRIVE. Accelerate
gently forward for 3-5 m
(10-15 ft.) and make a firm
brake application to test
the service brake.
Compressor Build-up Test
Continue to fan down the
service brakes until the air
pressure gauge indicates 50
psi. Restart the engine, apply
1/3 throttle. Air pressure should
build from 50 to 90 psi in less
than three minutes.
Parking Brake Test
With the parking brake applied,
shift to DRIVE and accelerate
gently (1/3 throttle) to test the
holding power of the parking
brake.
Low Air Warning Device
Fan down the service brakes
and ensure the low air warning
device (visual and/or audible)
activates before 60 psi.
NOTE: When the interlock
engages, you will feel
the brake treadle drop
about an inch. This is normal
operation. To release the
interlock, apply firm pressure
on the brake treadle. When
released, the treadle will
return with your foot to its
normal position.
Seat Alarm Test
With the transmission in
DRIVE, apply the service
brake firmly and lift your
body weight off the seat.
The seat alarm should sound.
12
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
MOST COMMON BUS PROBLEMS
TYPICAL FIX
Engine won’t start
Check that the CNG fuel door is closed. Check in
engine compartment that the engine run switch
is in the FRONT position. Ensure that the master run
switch is in DAY RUN position, the transmission is in
NEUTRAL, and the parking brake is applied.
If the light or screen is AMBER, park in a safe location.
Call Control for instructions.
Engine or transmission light or text message
on LCD screen is on
If the light or screen is RED, move the bus to a safe
location and park securely. The engine will shut down
in 30 seconds.
Ensure the parking brake is on and the transmission
is in neutral OR restart*
Wheelchair ramp not working
Door not working
Check the air shut-off valves OR restart*
Wipers not working
Restart*
* RESTART PROCEDURE
13
Shut off the bus. Turn the battery cut-off switch to OFF.
Wait ten seconds. Turn the battery cut-off switch to ON.
Restart the engine.
Troubleshooting
TYPICAL FIX
MOST COMMON BUS PROBLEMS
Climate control will not work until the engine
is close to normal operating temperature (10-15
minutes). Ensure that the climate control switch
is on AUTO, OR restart*
Climate control not working
Bus will not move
Check rear door emergency valve is completely on.
Ensure the doors are closed, the ramp is stowed and
the kneeling feature is in the raised position. Ensure
the parking brake is released and the transmission is
in DRIVE OR restart*
Can’t put in gear
Ensure the parking brake is released. Shift
transmission to NEUTRAL, firmly apply the service
brakes, shift transmission to DRIVE
Destination sign not working
Restart*
Check the full length of the bell cord and each
junction box for possible hang-ups
NEXT STOP button does not cancel
Check that the radio is on, the volume is turned up,
and it is set to Control channel
Radio not working
* RESTART PROCEDURE
14
Shut off the bus. Turn the battery cut-off switch to OFF.
Wait ten seconds. Turn the battery cut-off switch to ON.
Restart the engine.
Change-Offs
Change-Offs
Vehicle Defects Found During Pre-Trip
Complete Trip Inspection
Report and carry on if …
• Clearance light or licence plate
not working during daylight
Call Logistics for new bus if …
•
•
• Exterior reflectors missing or
damaged
• Unmarked body damage:
radio Control with details
• Windshield or window(s)
damaged or chipped but
vision not blocked
• Exterior boarding light not
working
• Blue wheel nut pointers
on any wheel > record on
the back of the BC Transit
Trip Inspection Report
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Doors not working
Destination sign not
working > change off or
get temporary sign
Dash lights not working
Sunvisor not working
Radio not working
Windshield damage
blocks vision
Flat tire (inner or outer)
Fluid loss from engine
Stop engine or warning light
Service brake not stopping
vehicle
Parking brake not holding
(use wheel chock in
meantime)
Failure on any part of air
brake pre-trip
Kneeler or ramp not working
Interlock (door/kneeler/ramp)
not working
Square wheel feel during
braking
Problem with seatbelt
Wipers or washer not working
• Passenger seat hazardous or
not secure
• Steering wheel play more than
7.5 cm (3 in.)
• Missing or misaligned wheel
nut pointers or elongated
pattern around lug nuts
• Horn not working
• Headlight(s), tail light(s),
brake light(s), signal light(s),
not working
• Windshield wiper(s) worn
or washer fluid empty
• Strange sounds or smells
from bus
• Passenger chime not working
• Fire extinguisher expired
or depleted
• Interior or exterior mirror
problems found
• 3 emergency reflector
triangles not present
• CVIP or insurance decal expired
• Wheel chock missing
• Bike rack defect
• Mobility aid securement
hardware missing
• Illuminated FIRE ALARM or FIRE
TROUBLE light on fire and gas
leak protection panel > see
EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDE
• Illuminated GAS LEAK or GAS
TROUBLE light on fire and gas
leak protection panel > see
EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDE
• Audible gas leak or fire alarm
sounds > see EMERGENCY
RESPONSE GUIDE
15
Call or drive to garage
for repair if …
• Low fluid levels
• Clearance light or licence
plate light not working
after dusk
Vehicle Defects Found During Service
Complete Trip Inspection
Report and carry on if…
Change off bus when
available or on-road repair
• Farebox in bypass
> call supervisor
• Little or no heat
• Washer fluid empty
> carry on only if safe
• Horn not working
• Passenger seat hazardous or
not secure > isolate seat until
change-off
• Clearance light or licence
plate light not working during
daylight
• Sunvisor unserviceable
> change off if unsafe
• Interior lights not working
during daylight
• Loss of braking > chock wheel
• Square wheel feel during
braking
• Smoke inside bus > shut bus
off, shut off battery cut-off
switch if safe, have customers
leave the bus > see EMERGENCY
RESPONSE GUIDE
• Fire suppression system
activates > see EMERGENCY
RESPONSE GUIDE
• Illuminated FIRE ALARM or FIRE
TROUBLE light on fire and gas
leak protection panel > see
EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDE
• Brake drag alert alarm: Park
and secure bus immediately
(If it is necessary to move the
bus to a safer location, use
the door master switch to
disable the interlock.) For
more information, see p. 23.
• Destination sign not working
• High beams not working
during daylight
• Exterior reflectors missing
or damaged
Stop bus immediately –
call for change-off
• One or both headlights out
during daylight
• High beams not working
when dark
• A side-mounted signal light
not working
• A tail light not working
• A brake light or cyclops brake
light not working
• Kneeler or ramp not working
• Loss of interior mirror
• Bike rack defect
• Stop engine light on > shut
bus off
• Both headlights out when dark
• Interior lights not working
when dark
• Front or rear signal light, or
both on one side, not working
• Both tail lights not working
• Wipers not working when
raining
• Loss of exterior mirror
• Parking brake will not hold >
chock wheel
• More than 7.5 cm (3 in.) play
in steering wheel
• Flat tire (inner or outer)
• Windshield cracks blocking
vision
• Seatbelt not working
• Brake lights not working
Contact garage for instructions
• Radio not working
(no communication)
• Strange sounds or smells
coming from bus
• Fluid loss from engine
• NEXT STOP chime not working
• Speedometer not working
16
• Any warning light illuminated
• Problems with driver’s seat
Driver’s Operations
Driver’s
Operations
Driver’s Operations
INSTRUMENT PANEL
A
The LCD screen displays text messages to warn of potential
problems. If the screen colour behind the text message is amber,
park the bus safely and call Control for instructions. If the screen
colour is red, park the bus safely and switch the master run switch
to STOP ENGINE. Call Control for instructions.
B
A LCD screen
BSpeedometer
C Secondary air pressure gauge
D Primary air pressure gauge
E Mode button
F Enter button
C
G
D
E
F
H
G Driver’s area climate controls
H Defroster temperature control
I Defroster fan control
J Panel lights dimmer switch
K Wiper/washer control
L Kneel switch
M Ramp switch
N Transmission shift selector
I
J
K
L
M
N
17
Driver’s Operations
FIRE SUPPRESSION AND GAS LEAK PROTECTION PANEL
DRIVER’S OVERHEAD CONTROL PANEL
Fire and gas leak
protection panel
PA system
amplifier
Driver’s booster
fan controls
Manual actuator
instructions
Manual actuator
switch
Destination sign
control
Overhead
vent
18
Driver’s Operations
DRIVER’S SIDE CONSOLE
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
M
A
N
A
B
C
D
E
F
L
O
Silent alarm
Video recorder switch
Stop engine override
Speaker select switch
Master run switch
Yield light switch
P
G
H
I
J
K
L
Q
R
Door controller
Driver’s fan
Driver’s light
Four-way flasher indicator
Door master switch
Emergency door open
S
M
N
O
P
Q
19
T U V W
Climate control switch
Idle speed control
Starter button
Stop request cancel switch
Parking brake control valve
R
S
T
U
V
W
Emergency brake release valve
Dash fan
Farebox light
Four-way flasher switch
Sweeper switch
Aisle lights
Driver’s Operations
PROCEDURES
4. Turn the master run switch to DAY RUN.
Starting Procedure
5. Wait for the electrical system to run its complete
self-check routine.
1. Ensure that the battery cutoff switch is in the ON position
before starting the engine.
You will find the battery cutoff switch access door in the
lower exterior curbside rear
panel behind the rear wheel.
6. Press the START button. Turn the master run switch
to NIGHT RUN.
7. Engage the fast idle switch. Allow the engine to idle
to warm up and build air pressure.
Driving Procedure
1. Firmly apply the foot brake.
2. Ensure the quarter-turn shutoff valve (red handle) is turned
ON. The red handle should be
parallel to the gas line. The
engine will not start unless
the CNG door is closed.
2. Release the parking brake.
3. Shift the transmission from NEUTRAL to DRIVE.
4. If necessary to shift from DRIVE to REVERSE, ensure
the bus is completely stopped before shifting.
Shut Down Procedure
3. Put the shift selector in
NEUTRAL and ensure the
parking brake is applied before
starting the engine. If the parking brake indicator does
not illuminate, DO NOT OPERATE THE VEHICLE.
1. Put the transmission in NEUTRAL. Apply the parking brake.
2. Turn the master run switch to STOP ENGINE.
Turn the quarter-turn shut-off valve to OFF.
3. Turn the battery cut-off switch to OFF.
20
Driver’s Operations
Interlock
Door Operation
The interlock system disables the accelerator and applies
all wheel brakes under the following conditions:
1. Bring the bus to a complete stop.
2. If necessary, apply the parking
brake.
• Rear door is open
3. To open only the front door,
push the door control handle
one click forward from the
CLOSED position to the FRONT
position.
• Vehicle is kneeling
• Wheelchair ramp is deployed
• Parking brake is applied
• When stopped in traffic (e.g., at a red light or stop sign)
4. To open both the front and
rear door, push the door control handle two clicks forward from
the CLOSED position to the FRONT/REAR position.
• Brake drag alert system is activated (see p. 23)
5.To open only the rear door, pull the door control handle one
click rearward from the CLOSED position to the REAR position.
NOTE: When the interlock engages,
you will feel the brake treadle drop about
an inch. This is normal operation.
6.To open both the rear and front door, pull the door control
handle two clicks rearward from the CLOSED position to the
REAR / FRONT POSITION.
To release the interlock, apply firm
pressure on the brake treadle.
When released, the treadle will return
with your foot to its normal position.
7. To close the door from any position, return the door control
handle to the CLOSED position.
21
Driver’s Operations
DRIVER’S CLIMATE CONTROL
Defroster Air Recirculation Control
When the red switch guard is down,
the climate control system is on
automatic. A thermostat operates
the system on a preset temperature.
The air knob on the instrument panel controls the amount of
fresh air circulated through the driver’s heater/defroster system.
The climate control system will
not work until the engine is close
to normal operating temperature.
This may take 10-15 minutes,
depending on weather conditions.
This vent allows outside air to
enter the vehicle interior while
the bus is moving forward. The
driver vent control is located
below the instrument panel.
Turn the knob clockwise to open the vent and increase air flow.
Turn it counter clockwise to close the vent and decrease air flow.
Driver Vent
To turn off the climate control, flip up the red switch guard,
and place the toggle switch in the OFF position.
Driver Floor Heat
Defroster Fan Control
The driver floor heat control is located below the instrument
panel. Turn the knob counter clockwise to increase foot heat.
Turn clockwise to decrease foot heat.
The defroster fan knob on the
instrument panel controls the
speed of the driver’s heater/defroster
fan. Turn the knob clockwise from
the OFF position to increase fan
speed. Turn counter clockwise to
decrease fan speed.
Driver Booster Fan Control
The driver booster fan speed is
controlled by a rotary switch on
the overhead panel. Turn the knob
clockwise to increase fan speed.
Turn counter clockwise to decrease
fan speed.
Defroster Temperature Control
The temperature control knob on
the instrument panel controls the
temperature of the air blowing from
the defroster/heater.
22
Driver’s Operations
RETARDER OPERATION
• An alarm buzzer will sound
The retarder works in conjunction with the service brakes to
slow the bus. It operates in three stages:
• The brake drag alert message will appear in the instrument
panel LCD display
1. A light brake application will activate the first stage.
• The parking brake and stop light indicators in the
instrument panel will begin to flash slowly
2. A medium brake application will activate the second stage.
After one minute:
3. A heavy brake application will activate the third stage
(full retarder operation).
• The alarm will sound steadily
The retarder is only effective at speeds above 8 km/h.
Its effectiveness decreases as the vehicle slows down.
• The flashing lights will continue
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS)
• The vehicle’s speed will be limited to 12 km/h
• The accelerator will be disabled
As soon as the alarms begin, follow this procedure:
For emergency braking in adverse conditions, apply firm
and constant pressure to the brake pedal. If the ABS system
senses imminent wheel lock-up, it will activate, producing a
hissing sound and a pulsing sensation to the brake pedal.
These are normal indications of the ABS system working.
• Find a safe place to stop the bus
• Apply the parking brake
• Call Control
• The brake interlock will apply automatically to
prevent further movement, and the four-way
flashers will begin flashing.
NOTE: During emergency braking DO NOT “pump”
the brakes. Maintain constant brake pressure.
NOTE: If the brake drag alert stops the bus
in an unsafe location (e.g., middle of an intersection),
you can use the door master switch to disable the
interlock and move the bus to a safer location.
BRAKE DRAG ALERT SYSTEM
During normal operation, if the air brakes fail to release
properly, the following will happen to reduce heat buildup
caused by brake drag:
23
Driver’s Operations
POWER RAMP OPERATION
6. After the ramp passes the vertical 90-degree position,
release the toggle switch. This shuts off power to the
pump and allows the ramp to float to the deployed
position.
NOTE: To prevent injury or bus damage,
do not attempt to deploy or stow the ramp
until you have determined nothing is
blocking the door or ramp and
the path is clear of obstacles.
7. If the bus requires further lowering, kneel the bus.
To stow the ramp:
1. When you see the mobility aid customer and all other
customers are clear of the ramp and door, move the
ramp toggle switch to STOW. After the ramp passes the
vertical 90-degree position, release the toggle switch.
This shuts off power to the pump and allows the ramp
to float to the stowed position.
To deploy the ramp:
NOTE: When the ramp is too close to the curb
damage can occur to the undercarriage of the ramp.
2. Close the door.
3. Raise the bus from the kneeling position.
4. Release the parking brake. The bus is now ready for
normal operation.
1. Bring the bus to a complete stop.
2. Apply the parking brake.
3. Shift transmission to NEUTRAL.
4. Open the door and ensure customers are clear of the
ramp area.
5. Move the ramp toggle switch to DEPLOY.
24
Driver’s Operations
MANUALLY OPERATING THE RAMP
To stow the ramp:
If the power to the loading ramp is not working, follow these steps:
1. When you see
the mobility aid
customer and all
other customers
are clear of the ramp
and door, grasp the
two nylon straps.
To deploy the ramp:
1. Bring the bus to a complete
stop.
2. Apply the parking brake.
3. Kneel the bus. Open the
door and ensure customers
are clear of the ramp.
2. Pull the ramp up,
protecting your back by lifting with your legs and keeping
your back straight. Do not force the ramp’s movement.
Apply just enough lifting force to overcome the resistance.
4. Stand clear of the ramp
and grasp the two nylon
straps. Pull the ramp up,
protecting your back by
lifting with your legs and
keeping your back straight.
Do not force the ramp’s
deployment. Apply just enough lifting force to overcome
the resistance. Walk the ramp forward, and when it is clear
of the door, let it fall to the ground.
3. Walk the ramp forward, and when it is clear of the door,
let it fall to the floor.
NOTE: The probability of injury increases
with repeated manual ramp operation.
Use the manual operation only when necessary,
and change off the bus as soon as possible.
To prevent injury or bus damage, do not deploy
the ramp until you have confirmed that the path
is clear of obstacles.
25
Securement Procedures
Securement
Securement Procedures
MOBILITY AID CONDITION
Q’STRAINT SECUREMENT SYSTEM
Mobility aids in disrepair or those without adequate anchor
positions for safe and secure travel are not permitted aboard
BC Transit buses. Refer such problems to Control.
Q’Straint straps secure the mobility aid and self-tighten in
response to movement in transit, similar to the way a seat
belt works.
SECUREMENT STRAP ANGLES
Securement Straps
60 degrees
45 degrees
30 degrees
Floor
When securing a mobility aid, the securement straps
should form an angle of 45 degrees to the floor for
maximum stability. While 45 degrees is the optimal
angle, a range between 30 to 60 degrees is considered
acceptable. If the straps are at an angle less than 30
degrees, or greater than 60 degrees, there is too great
a danger of front-to-back or side-to-side instability.
26
Securement Procedures
SECURING A MOBILITY AID
4. Front-facing area:
Locate the two tiedown belts under
the barrier and attach
each belt to solid
rear frame members
of the mobility aid
as follows:
All wheelchairs and scooters must be secured
1. Point out the available accessible position (forwardor rear-facing) to the customer in the mobility aid. Flip
the seats up to the lock position and ensure there are
no obstacles preventing the customer from moving
into the appropriate position.
2. When the customer is in position, ensure the brakes
on the mobility device are locked ON or the power is
turned OFF.
3. Rear-facing area: When the mobility device is in
position, the anti-tipping bar will prevent tipping.
Q’Straint straps can be used for additional securement.
• Pull the belt release
handle on the barrier
to release each tiedown belt
• Attach extended end of each tie-down belt to a solid frame
member of the mobility aid
• Pull the belt release handle again to take up the slack in the belts
Q’Straint strap
Q’Straint strap
• Check belts to ensure they are secure
Anti-tipping bar
27
Radio Procedures
Radio
Procedures
Radio Procedures
INCIDENT RESPONSE KIT
CODE 6: POTENTIAL EMERGENCY
Familiarize yourself with the Incident Response Kit.
before an emergency occurs.
Use this when there is potential for a situation to escalate.
1. Say “Code 6, Code 6”.
2. Say bus number.
NOTE: In the event of a fire or gas leak on the bus,
do not operate any of the electrical switches on
the side panel or dash, or use any devices that might
create a spark. See Emergency Response Guide.
3. State location (e.g., “on X Street at Y Avenue”).
4. Give one sentence explanation (e.g., “I have a disruptive
customer on board”).
HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY
CODE 9: POTENTIAL EMERGENCY
EMERGENCYCALL
Use this when there is an injury, violence, or clear threat of
violence to you or to your customers.
Bus Accident
1. Say “Code 9, Code 9”.
-----
Code 6 or 9
2. Say bus number.
Contact with pedestrian
Contact with another vehicle
Contact with stationary object
Contact with BC Transit vehicle
On-Bus Accident
-- Customer falls
-- Customer injured
Code 6 or 9
Assault
-- On operator
-- On a customer
Code 9
3. State location (e.g., “I’m on Y Street at X Avenue”).
4. Give any details you can on the radio while keeping
yourself and customers safe.
HOW TO CANCEL A CODE 6 OR CODE 9
If the situation resolves before a transit supervisor arrives on
scene, call Control and say “cancel Code 6” or “cancel Code 9”.
28
Radio Procedures
EMERGENCY TOGGLE SWITCH
BEFORE YOU MAKE THE CALL
In an extreme emergency situation, or when circumstances
prevent you from using the radio to call a Code 9, use the
emergency toggle switch, located on the side console.
Who?
Bus # and Paddle #
Where?On X Street at Y Intersection
What?
Short description of the problem
How? Short description of how you want to be helped
WHEN YOU MAKE THE CALL
NOTE: During a typical day’s work,
you may need to call for assistance.
Depending on how you have been trained,
you would call Control, logistics, a supervisor,
a manager, or your depot office.
In this manual, we have used Control as
an all-inclusive term to refer to any of
the above contacts.
Radio Only
Flip up the red switch guard and pull the toggle switch
toward yourself. Control will be alerted by an alarm, and they
will respond as if it is a Code 9.
• Identify yourself and who you are calling:
-- “Bus # to Control”
Radio and Destination Sign
• When communication is established give the “who,
where, what, and how” information as briefly as possible
and wait for direction or questions
Flip up the red switch guard and push the toggle switch away
from yourself. Control will be alerted by an alarm, and they will
respond as if it is a Code 9. The outside destination sign will
display CALL 911. This has proven very effective in alerting
passersby to call emergency services. The interior destination
sign will continue to display the destination as normal.
• Do not give more information unless asked
• If asked, switch to another channel immediately
to avoid delays
29
cont’d
Radio Procedures
WHEN CALL IS FINISHED
PHONETIC ALPHABET
• Confirm that you have received and understood the
message (e.g., “Copy that”)
Alpha
Hotel
Oscar
Victor
• Indicate when the conversation is finished
(e.g., “Bus # Clear”)
Bravo
India
Papa
Whiskey
Charlie
Juliet
Quebec
X-ray
Delta
Kilo
Romeo
Yankee
REMEMBER
Echo
Lima
Sierra
Zulu
Others with pressing needs may be waiting to get on air.
Be brief, concise, to the point.
Foxtrot
Mike
Tango
Golf
November Uniform
GENERAL REMINDERS
Listen before speaking. Is another conversation in progress?
If so, wait until it is finished unless it is an emergency.
Speak slowly and clearly into handset.
Avoid using names on air.
For Code 6 and Code 9 calls see next section: Emergency Procedures
30
Radio Procedures
2
1
3
4
How to Turn the Radio On
Rotate the power switch clockwise. If power-up is successful,
you will hear the self-test pass tone and see the green LED
indicator light momentarily.
If the radio fails to power up, you will hear the self-test fail tone.
How to Turn the Radio Off
Rotate the power switch counter-clockwise until you hear a
click and both the display and LED indicators turn off.
6
5
1. Speaker
2. Power switch and
volume dial
HOW TO SELECT A RADIO CHANNEL
Your radio offers a number of channels. Check with your
manager for clarification.
7
3. LCD display
– Displays current channel
Press the channel selector (4) to select the desired channel.
8
4. Channel selector
5. Function buttons
6. LED power on indicator light
9
7. Handset cradle
– Holds handset
8. Talk button
– Press to speak (remember to release to allow a response)
9. Handset
– Contains earpiece and mouthpiece
31
CNG Emergencies
CNG
Emergencies
CNG Emergencies
CNG EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDE PROCEDURE
Natural gas is odourless and colourless in its pure state.
To ensure gas leaks can be easily detected, a compound
called ethyl mercaptan is added to the fuel. Mercaptan
contains sulfur, which gives it the odour of rotten eggs.
Gas concentrations as small as 0.5% (too small to ignite)
can be identified by this unpleasant odour.
If you smell a rotten egg odour, or hear gas leaking
or venting from the pressure relief devices on the
roof-mounted fuel tanks, follow this procedure:
Open
1. Pull the bus over to a safe location.
2. Apply the parking brake.
Closed
3. Open the front and rear doors.
4. Direct all passengers to a safe area at least 92 m (300 ft.)
from the bus. Do not allow anyone to smoke or operate
any device that may create a spark within 30 m (100 ft.)
of the bus.
NOTE: Breathing heavy concentrations
of natural gas can cause drowsiness
and eventual suffocation.
5. Set the master run switch to the OFF position.
6. If it is safe to do so, turn the battery cut-off switch
to the OFF position.
The odour of natural gas is detectable at a
concentration of 0.5%. This is well below
the level causing drowsiness
or supporting combustion.
7. If it is safe to do so, turn the quarter-turn shut-off valve
¼ turn to the right to stop the flow of fuel to the engine.
8. From a position more than 30 m (100 ft.) from the bus, call
Control and have qualified personnel troubleshoot the system.
32
CNG Emergencies
CNG FUEL FIRE
8. Use the vehicle fire extinguisher to put out any secondary
fire which is not in the fuel system. Use common sense and
good judgment to avoid dangerous situations.
If a fire occurs in or near the CNG fuel system, the fire suppression
system will activate. This will shut off the fuel solenoid valves and
the gas supply and will stop the vehicle.
9. If the fire cannot be safely contained and extinguished in
this way, call the fire department and police from a position
more than 30 m (100 ft.) from the bus.
Depending on the location and intensity of the initial fire flare-up,
heat may have melted the pressure relief devices (PRD) on one
or several of the fuel cylinder lines, which will vent the gas to the
atmosphere. The PRDs continue to vent until the tanks are emptied.
This venting prevents pressure build-up in the tank which could
cause an explosion.
FIRE SUPPRESSION AND GAS DETECTION SYSTEM
Effective monitoring and operating the fire suppression and
CNG detection system requires a basic understanding of how
each component operates in the system.
If you detect a fire on the bus, or hear gas venting from the
PRDs, follow this procedure.
1. Pull the bus over to a safe location.
2. Apply the parking brake.
Fire and gas leak
protection panel
3. Do not operate any of the electrical switches on the side
panel or dash.
4. Leave the doors open so that any leaked gas will disperse
to the atmosphere.
5. Direct all passengers to a safe area at least 92 m (300 ft.)
away from the vehicle.
6. If it is safe to do so, turn the quarter-turn shut-off valve
¼ turn to the right to stop the flow of fuel to the engine.
Manual actuator
instructions
7. If it is safe to do so, turn the battery cut-off switch to the
OFF position.
33
Manual actuator
switch
CNG Emergencies
1. Fire suppression and gas leak protection panels
are located in the driver’s area.
6. Gas sensors
Two sensors are located on the rooftop fuel tank bay and two
in the A/C compartment.
• A fire, gas leak or a component failure shows up
on the monitor panel as a lit indicator beside the
FIRE or GAS heading.
EMERGENCY EXITS
• An alarm sounds as a further warning.
Side Windows
• The test/reset button is used during every
pre-trip inspection to test the LED indicators
and audible alarm of the monitor.
The Xcelsior bus
is equipped with
four emergency
exit side windows,
identified by labels.
2. Discharge nozzles
Four nozzles are located in the
engine compartment.
To open an emergency
window, pull the red
handle down and hold.
Push out on the bottom of the
window frame. The window will open
on hinges at the top of the frame.
3. Heat sensors
Three heat sensors are located in
the engine compartment.
4. Extinguishing agent cylinder
This is located in the rear street
side overhead light compartment.
5. Manual actuator switch
In the unlikely event that the
automatic fire suppression system fails to operate,
use the manual actuator switch to manually
discharge the extinguishing agent. The switch is
located in the overhead panel in the driver’s area.
Lift up the protective cover and push the red
FIRE button to initiate the discharge.
34
CNG Emergencies
Roof Hatches
Emergency Release Control Valves – Front and Rear Doors
Both roof hatches can be used as emergency exits.
The emergency release control valve for the front door is located
behind a breakable window above the door. In an emergency,
break the window to access the control valve knob. Rotate the
knob a quarter turn counter clockwise to release the air pressure
from the door, then push the doors open. As the doors open they
activate the header and curb lights.
To open, pull the red handle at the rear of the hatch to release
the locking mechanism. The handle is attached to a cable which
will release the retaining pins from the rear hinge. Push up on
the rear section of the hatch, allowing it to swing fully open on
the front hinges.
The valve for the rear door
is located behind a hinged
window to the left of the exit
door header. In an emergency,
pull the window open to
access the control valve knob.
Rotate the control valve one
quarter turn counter clockwise
to release the air pressure from
the door, then push the doors
open. As the doors open they
activate the header and curb
lights, the brake interlock, and
the rear door open indicator.
GENERAL SAFETY
To close, release the handle
and slam the window shut.
Natural gas has a proven record as being a safe vehicle fuel. If you
are involved in a collision, please contact Control and submit an
incident report. If a CNG bus is involved in a collision, regulations
require it must be inspected before it is put back into service.
35