Bus-Driver

Job overview
For most of the time bus-drivers carry passengers to their destinations on set routes and at scheduled times, but sometimes they are required to make a “one off?”? trip, e.g. ?when taking people to a special event.

Others may work for tourist companies and drive long distances to a variety of destinations.

What do people do in this job?
First thing in the morning bus-drivers check their vehicle before departure from the depot.

A defect card on which the condition of the brakes, windscreen wipers and lights is stated, is normally supplied for this purpose.

When bus-drivers pick up passengers at the bus stop, they usually have to collect fares and issue tickets.

They then have the responsibility of driving a bus-load of people safely through the traffic.

In addition they must see that all passengers, including children, the elderly and the incapacitated get on and off the bus safely.

At the end of each journey they check for articles left by mistake in the bus and hand them in at the terminus, where they also fill in their waybill

What kinds of people are suitable for this career?
Bus-drivers should, above all, be emotionally stable, responsible, skilled and cautious handlers of a heavy vehicle.

In addition they should be courteous and punctual.

They should always strive to handle every situation as well as possible and be able to make accurate and quick decisions.

They should be alert and try to prevent accidents, especially when driving in heavy traffic or bad conditions.

What qualifications are needed?
A valid heavy vehicle driver's licence, plus good sight, eye-hand co-ordination and general health.