Memorandum

To: School Bus Manufacturers, Dealers, Interested Parties
From: Pete Baxter, Administrator
State School Bus Committee
Date: December 10, 2004
Re: Windows

The Bluebird Corporation requested a review of Committee rule on side windows with consideration to allow a single pane (non-split sash) push-out emergency window.

The current rule on side windows, Title 575 IAC 1-3-66, et. al., states:

(c) Side and rear windows must meet the following criteria:

(1) Glass in the side and rear windows must be made of AS-2 or better grade, as specified in American Standards Association Code Z26.1.

(2) Each full side window must provide an unobstructed emergency opening at least nine (9) inches high and 22 inches wide, attained by lowering the window.

(d) At least one push-out, emergency split sash window must be installed near the center of each side of the bus body. Side emergency windows must have the words “EMERGENCY EXIT” in at least two (2) inch high letters on the inside of the bus, above the side emergency windows.

Window specifications in the 2000 Edition National School Transportation Specifications and Procedures book states:

Each side window, other than emergency exits designated to comply with FMVSS No. 217, shall provide an unobstructed opening of at least nine inches high but not more than 13 inches high and at least 22 inches wide, obtained by lowering the window. One side window on each side of the bus may be less than 22 inches wide.

The National Specifications and Procedures language allows, as an option, for a single pane window as an emergency push-out exit.

There are two apparent advantages to a single pane push-out emergency window exit: 1) it is lighter, and 2) it is easier to operate. Both are valid considerations during an evacuation, especially for elementary or pre-school students. A disadvantage with a single pane emergency exit window is that it is non-ventilating. Ventilation is easily accommodated by the other split-sash windows and the combination emergency roof exit / ventilator.

Therefore, side emergency push-out windows may be a single glass pane. All other side windows must conform to existing rule in Title 575.