Safe Recovery (and Repair) Of Buses And Coaches Fitted With Air Suspension (PM85).pdf

## Safe Recovery (and Repair) of Buses and Coaches Fitted with Air Suspension: Key Takeaways

This guidance note from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Institute of Vehicle Repair (IVR) offers best practices for safely recovering and repairing public service vehicles (PSVs) like buses and coaches equipped with air suspension systems.

Primary Focus:

Recovery firms, tyre fitters, repair workshops, and bus depots involved in work on air-suspension PSVs.
Emphasizes preventing sudden and unexpected vehicle collapse that could trap technicians.

Key Principles:

1. Never crawl beneath a vehicle with air suspension unless it's properly supported.
2. Never tamper with the ride height for recovery or repair purposes.

Adequate Planning Crucial:

Risk assessment, task understanding, specific knowledge of the vehicle, suitable equipment, and clear communication are essential.
Allow sufficient time for safe execution. Don't feel pressured by external factors like police or deadlines.

Three Recovery Methods:

1. Winching onto a transporter: Using a low-loader trailer.
2. "Lift and tow": Raising the front or rear of the vehicle while partially supporting its weight on the casualty's own axle and the recovery vehicle.
3. Flat towing: The casualty vehicle supports its own weight, towed by a bar or towing frame.

Safety Precautions:

Avoid working beneath vehicles with air suspension unless absolutely necessary.
Understand how ground clearance can change unexpectedly due to air pressure fluctuations, component failure, or external factors like door opening and braking.
Use appropriate safety equipment (e.g., harnesses) when working near potential hazards.
Regularly inspect, maintain, and examine recovery equipment for proper functioning.
* Be prepared for unexpected situations and have contingency plans in place.