Proper Use of Child Safety Restraint Systems in School Buses

Child Safety Restraint Systems: Chart & Checklist

NOTE: Always check label on the child safety restraint system that tells you what weight of child can be restrained in the system.
* Many convertible seats are currently available that can accomodate rear-facing infants to a weight greater than 20 lbs.
** Systems provide anchors to secure a rear-facing child safety seat

Need help selecting or installing CSRS?
Contact a Child Passenger Safety Technician.
To locate one near you call your State Highway Safety Office or go to www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/childps/contacts

School Bus Driver Checklist

and ask yourself the following questions...

_____ Am I using the correct CSRS for the child? Child should be rear-facing up to at least 20 lbs. and at least 1 year of age. Forward-facing after 20 lbs. and at least 1 year of age. (Use only to weight limits designated by manufacturer)

_____ Have I routed the seatbelt through the CSRS as instructed by the manufacturer?

_____ Are the child safety seat harness straps in the right slot? (Check user's manual) Rear-facing - lower slots at or below the shoulders. Forward-facing - generally top slots always at or above the shoulders.

_____ Is the harness buckled snugly around the child? The straps must lie flat and the harness retaining clip must be at armpit level. The harness should be adjusted so you can slip only one finger between the straps and the child's chest.

_____ Are all infants semi-reclined? It's important for an infant to ride rear-facing and semi-reclined (halfway back or 45 degrees from horizontal) to support head, neck and back. You can put a tightly rolled towel or a firm foam "noodle" (pool float) under the front edge of the child safety seat to tilt it back a little so infant's head lies back comfortably.

_____ Are convertible seats that are being used forward-facing in the upright position?

_____ Do all child safety seat harness straps have retainer clips?

_____ Have I practiced with the CSRS before seating children?

_____ Have I placed all my weight and kneeled into the child safety seat to ensure a tight fit? The seat must not move more than 1 inch when pushed forward or side to side at the belt path.

_____ Do I have and have I reviewed manufacturer's instructions for all the CSRS in the bus?

_____ Have I checked the NHTSA Hotline in the last 3 months for possible recalls? (1-888-DASH-2-DOT)