RTMC calls on scholar transporters to ensure safety of vehicles prior to schools reopening

With the imminent reopening of schools, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has emphasized the critical importance for all scholar transport operators to prioritize the roadworthiness of their vehicles and ensure the timely renewal of their vehicle license discs. 

The responsibility of scholar transport operators extends to ensuring the safe daily travel of millions of learners between home and school. This necessitates holding drivers and vehicles to a high standard, with strict adherence to safety protocols and road regulations.

“Achieving this standard involves conducting comprehensive vehicle inspections and maintenance checks on a regular basis. Additionally, operators must ensure that drivers possess the requisite documents authorizing them to transport learners. These proactive measures are pivotal in significantly enhancing the overall safety of learners during their commute,” said RTMC’s Chief Communication Officer, Simon Zwane.  

RTMC’s Key recommendations for scholar transport operators

Vehicle Roadworthiness Checks: Prioritize comprehensive vehicle inspections to identify and rectify any mechanical or safety issues. This includes assessing brakes, tires, lights, and all other critical components.
 
Regular Maintenance: Establish a routine maintenance schedule for vehicles. Promptly address any wear and tear and ensure that all necessary repairs are carried out by qualified professionals.

Documentation Renewal: Verify that all necessary documents, including vehicle license discs, are up-to-date. It is crucial to renew these documents well in advance to ensure compliance with legal requirements. To renew without hassles, drivers can log on to online.natis.gov.za where they can opt for their discs to be delivered at their doorstep.

Driver Training and Certification: Ensure that all drivers are adequately trained and certified with valid PrDps. Emphasize the importance of road safety and responsible driving behaviour, especially when transporting learners.

Emergency Preparedness: Equip vehicles with necessary safety and emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers.

Zwane added: “The RTMC emphasises that compliance with these recommendations is not only a legal obligation but a moral responsibility towards the safety and well-being of the learners who rely on scholar transport services. We call upon all scholar transport operators to take immediate action in reviewing and enhancing the safety measures within their operations. Your cooperation in this matter is crucial in creating a secure and reliable transportation system for our learners. With rainfall predicted in most parts of the country it is important to fit proper wipers and functioning lights to ensure visibility on the road.”