(i) at the initial inspection of any such school bus body, any deviation from this Part is not listed in the out of service criteria as an “A” item (see section 720.11 of this Part);

(ii) the vehicle complies with all applicable FMVSS requirements as of the date of manufacture or modification;

(iii) the manufacturer provide engineering and test data to the department, which clearly indicates the reason for not complying with the regulation; and

(iv) the vehicle condition does not present an imminent safety hazard.

(i) The vehicle body shall be constructed to:

(ii) All openings between chassis and passenger carrying compartment made due to alterations shall be sealed.

(iii) The body shall be mounted on the chassis so that the overhang to the rear of the centerline of the rear axle shall not exceed 35 percent of the total length of the vehicle measured from the extreme front end to the extreme rear end, not including the front and rear bumpers.

(iv) Pedals, levers, switches and gauges used by the driver shall be readily accessible and visible to the driver. An adjustable sunvisor shall be so mounted as to provide driver protection from glare through the windshield.

(v) Steps. Any steps, including after-market steps, attached to vehicles shall be of solid surface construction.

(vi) Fire resistance. The bus floor shall be covered with fire-resistant material commonly used as floor covering in public transportation equipment.

(vii) Water resistance. All bus floor covering shall be permanently and completely bonded to the floor with a waterproof adhesive, and shall not crack, separate or expand and contract creating buckling when subjected to sudden and severe changes in temperatures. All seams shall be sealed with a waterproof sealer. Such seams shall be sealed in such a manner as to prevent tripping.

(viii) Raised floors. Raised floor options on any size bus, when located behind the driver area, shall have a white strip and be labeled STEP UP viewed upon entering aisle and a label STEP DOWN viewed upon exiting aisle.

(i) Interior panels. Interior panels shall cover all bows, posts and braces and shall be securely attached to all side posts and roof bows. Panels shall be installed so that separations, if any, shall be toward the front. Edges of panels shall be constructed to minimize injury.

(ii) Exterior panels. Exterior panels constituting roof and sides shall be securely attached to roof bows and side posts.

(iii) Floor. Type B, C and D buses shall be equipped with a floor of all metal construction with leak proof joints and of strength and rigidity of 14-gauge steel. Cross members or sills shall be securely welded or riveted to this floor. If the floor is attached to the main body sill, below the bottom surface of the floor, bolts and nuts may be used. The floor in passageways and passenger area shall be as level as practicable except in the wheel housing, toe-board, stepwell and driver's platform area.

(iv) Aisles. The covering in the aisle and in the entrance steps shall be, durable, wear resistant and of a rib type or nonskid surface.

(v) Entrance plate. If a metal nonskid plate is used at the entrance, it shall be attached to the floor of the bus, cover the width of the entrance steps, extend into the passenger compartment, but not beyond the left side of the aisle floor strip, and extend rearward to approximately the leg of the first seat on entrance door side of the body. When used, it shall be matched against the floor covering in such way that there will be no difference in height between this metal plate and the floor covering which would create a hazardous condition.

(vi) Body metal. All metal used in construction of body of less than eight-gauge thickness, shall be mill-applied aluminum coated steel, aluminum, or equivalent. In determining equivalency, mill-applied zinc steel or aluminum coated steel shall be used as a basis for comparison. The results as provided by American Society for Testing Materials of the application of the 1,000 hours salt spray test will have to indicate at least the equivalent of results derived when mill-applied aluminum coated steel or mill-applied zinc steel is subjected to the test. In addition to the above requirements, all metal parts that will be painted shall be chemically cleaned, etched, zinc-phosphate coated, and zinc-chromate or epoxy-primed or conditioned by equivalent process. Final stage manufacturer must certify water test.

(vii) Body skirting. Body skirting shall be made of aluminum, steel, composite(s) or similar rigid material(s) and shall be fastened at the location of each body post and post extensions. Bottom of skirting shall be angled or rolled so as to prevent the accumulation of snow, moisture, dirt, etc. while also providing greater strength. In lieu of angled or rolled bottom skirting, a third rub rail positioned at bottom of panels shall be accepted.

(viii) Corners. Rear corner reinforcements of vehicle body between floor and window sill and between emergency door posts and the last side posts shall be provided. Such structural members shall be securely attached at each end and shall provide impact and penetration resistance equal to that provided by frame members in areas of sides of body.

(ix) Insulation. Type A buses shall have a plywood floor of a quality grade and installed over the original metal floor with a minimum thickness of one half inch. Buses constructed in accordance with provisions outlined in subparagraph (i) of this paragraph shall be deemed in compliance with this section. If additional insulation is desired on Type B, C, D buses, exterior-type plywood of a quality grade (minimum one-half inch thick) shall be used.

(i) Main aisle. The main aisle shall include the part of a vehicle used as a passageway, which extends from the entrance doors to the rearmost seats and/or doors. A minimum aisle height of 75 inches is required for Type C and D buses and 72 inches for Type A-1 and B buses.

(ii) Main aisle width. All vehicles shall provide an unobstructed main aisle of at least 10 inches wide from each entrance door to the rearmost passenger positions (i.e., seat[s] or wheelchair stations).

(iii) Door access. The main aisle or passageway to any door shall be unobstructed and shall not be restricted to less than 10 inches wide from the floor to the ceiling.

(iv) Stanchions. The aisle width between the stanchion poles, where required, shall not be less than 12 inches.

(v) Passenger loads. The total weight of the passenger load plus the combined weight of the body and chassis shall not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating recommended by the chassis manufacturer. The percentage of standing passengers permitted shall not exceed the following limits:

(vi) Standing passengers shall not be carried in a bus with a main aisle less than 14 inches wide and 75 inches high, except as noted below for school buses. Passengers shall not be permitted to stand forward of the white marking or turnstile, as may be applicable, while the bus is in motion.

(i) Main aisle. The main aisle shall be not less than 12 inches wide and 72 inches high, except Type A-ll school buses which shall have a minimum main aisle width of 10 inches and may have a height other than 72 inches.

(ii) Width. The main aisle shall be a minimum of 12 inches in width from floor to the top of the seat cushion. Such aisle shall gradually increase to a minimum width of 14 inches from 30 inches above the floor to the ceiling.

(iii) Flip seat. A flip seat in the unoccupied (up) position shall not obstruct the 30 cm (11.8 inches) minimum aisle to any side emergency door required by FMVSS.

(i) Multi-passenger side doors. Vehicles with two or more doors on the passenger side may have a folding type seat adjacent to the rear door, provided such seat can be folded easily and quickly to provide access from the door to the rear seat at least 10 inches wide. Passenger restraint systems shall not constitute a obstruction when determining the 10-inch access.

(i) All doors, rear tailgates and rear transom windows shall be designed to close securely.

(ii) Vertical clearance. Vehicle doors may be sedan, sliding, folding, accordion, pivot, or split type, unless specifically required or prohibited by this section. All doors shall provide a vertical opening clearance of at least 72 inches, except for sedan or sliding type doors, which shall be at least 50 inches. Vehicles equipped with split or folding type doors shall have the vertical closing edges equipped with flexible material to protect passengers.

(iii) Horizontal clearance. All door(s) shall have an horizontal open clearance of 24 inches from near top to the bottom. Door controls shall not restrict opening to less than 22 inches.

(iv) Entrance door area. The door shall fully enclose the stepwell or entrance area and be equipped with suitable weather stripping to prevent leaks. All entrance doors shall be designed to provide the driver with an unobstructed view while the vehicle is in motion.

(v) For hire vehicles. Every motor vehicle operated for hire upon the public highways of New York State shall be equipped with handles or other devices that permit the door(s) to the passenger compartment to be readily opened from the interior of the vehicle.

(vi) Power assisted. Every power assisted door shall have an easily accessible emergency release device located in the passenger entrance/exit area, designed to allow door operation regardless of all other controls. This device shall be identified and instructions for its use shall be posted thereon or adjacent thereto. The device shall be of a positive stop design. The device must allow the door closing mechanism to release with the absence of electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic power.

(vii) Door controls. The entrance doors and door controls shall be designed and constructed so as to prevent injury and accidental opening of doors. The door controls shall be mounted in a position readily accessible to the driver.

(viii) Secondary door locking systems. All non-coach type vehicles equipped with a secondary door locking device(s) that does not function with a door opening/closing mechanism shall incorporate an interlocking system that will prevent the propulsion unit from being started when a door is locked. An audible or visible warning device shall be provided to alert the driver if such door is locked when the vehicle propulsion unit is active.

(ix) Exit doors. Vehicles equipped with a separate exit door used to discharge passengers at points between termini shall be equipped with the following:

(i) All school bus entrance/exit door(s) shall be equipped with an opening device controlled by the driver.

(ii) Padding. All doors shall be equipped with padding at the interior top edge of each door opening. Padding shall be at least three inches wide and one inch thick and extend the full width of door opening.

(iii) Door location. Entrance/exit door shall be located on the right side of the vehicle, opposite and within direct view of the driver. Exception: vehicles operated within the five boroughs of New York City may be equipped with a left side entrance/exit door provided such door meets the following:

(iv) Type B, C, D buses shall be equipped with lower, as well as, upper door panels of approved safety glass. The bottom of each lower glass panel shall not be more than approximately 10 inches from the top surface of the bottom step. The top of each upper glass panel shall not be more than approximately six inches from the top of the door. Type A buses shall have an upper panel (window) of 350 square inches.

(v) Power assisted. All school buses equipped with power assisted door(s) shall have an emergency release device, located in the passenger entrance/exit area that is easily accessible and designed to allow door operation regardless of all other controls. This device shall be identified and instructions for its use shall be posted thereon or adjacent thereto. The device shall be of a positive stop design. The device must allow the door closing mechanism to release with the absence of electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic power. All school buses manufactured after January 1, 2001, equipped with power assisted door(s) shall have an emergency release device located in the passenger entrance/exit area that is easily accessible to students of all ages.

(i) A suitable grab handle or rail shall be provided at the stepwell, securely mounted inside the body. The grab handle lower end shall be as close as practical to the bottom step.

(ii) Grab handles shall be stainless steel clad or metal covered with bonded plastic or chrome. In addition, grab handle shall be constructed and installed to eliminate the possibility of passengers clothing or personal items becoming lodged or caught upon exiting the vehicle.

(i) Stairwell guardrail. A guardrail, securely fastened to the side of the vehicle, with a panel approximately 30 inches above the floor, extending the approximate width of the seat(s) immediately to the rear of such panel and supported by a vertical stanchion securely fastened to floor and ceiling, shall be provided between the first seat(s) and the stairwell. The panel may extend to not more than approximately one-half inch above the floor and there shall be a minimum distance of nine inches between the front edge of the front seat(s) and the guardrail and panel.

(ii) Stairwell barrier. A panel approximately 30 inches above the floor, extending the approximate width of the seat(s) immediately to the rear of such panel and securely fastened to the floor, shall be provided between the first seat(s) and the stairwell. The panel may extend to not more than approximately one-half inch above the floor and there shall be a minimum distance of nine inches between the front edge of the front seat(s) and the panel.

(i) DMV approved. All glazing shall be properly mounted and be of a type approved by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and mounted so its identification mark is legible when required.

(ii) Tinting. Tinted glazing may be installed in all doors, windows, and windshields consistent with Federal, State and local regulations.

(iii) Windshield. The windshield shall be so designed and constructed to reduce glare, be of sufficient size and installed to permit the driver to see the highway clearly, with a minimum of obstruction. Windshields may have a horizontal gradient band.

(iv) Bars. Bars on the windows of a passenger carrying motor vehicle are prohibited.

(i) Window locations. A window shall be provided in each body section of the passenger compartment, except for the rearmost section, where it will be optional to provide any windows.

(ii) Split sash windows. All side windows, except at the immediate left of the driver, stationary windows, door and rear sections shall be split sash, except for those which provide emergency exits. The lower section shall be stationary and sealed.

(iii) Window opening. The top sections of all split sash side windows shall raise and lower in vertical grooves to provide an unobstructed opening of not more than five inches, and be controlled by a manually operated mechanism at either side of the sash.

(iv) Driver window. The window at the immediate left of the driver may be installed to lower the horizontal window drop sill level or may be divided vertically with the front and back sections sliding in grooves.

(i) Temperature. Heater(s) shall be provided capable of maintaining an inside temperature of at least 50°F when the outside air is at the average minimum January temperature for that area, as established by the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Weather Service.

(ii) Exhaust gas. Heating systems using propulsion system exhaust gas to heat air carried within the passenger section or exhaust gas passing through conductors within the passenger section are prohibited.

(iii) FMVSS. Heating devices using gasoline, or other fuel, must have an independent testing laboratory certification that the device meets all applicable FMVSS for the type of vehicle in which the device is stored. Proper certifications by Underwriter's Laboratories, Inc., as evidenced by displaying the UL listed trademark, shall be deemed to comply with the foregoing requirement. The original laboratory certification and report must be in English. When the heating device is installed as original equipment by the vehicle manufacturer, such manufacturer is certifying that the vehicle and all components meet FMVSS at the date of manufacture. Such standards are contained in 49 CFR section 393.77.

(iv) Fuel line. The fuel line connection shall be located outside of the passenger section.

(v) Air intake. Any air intake for a heater or ventilation system shall be installed so as to minimize the intrusion of exhaust into the passenger compartment. Heaters and hot water lines installed within the passenger section shall be shielded, where necessary, to prevent injury to the driver and passenger in the event any part thereof is defective.

(vi) Intake grille. Only under-seat heaters placed forward of the rear axle may draw their air from the outside of the vehicle through an intake grille located in or immediately adjacent to the body belt line. Front heater shall take the outside air from an intake grille located at the side of a cowl or driver's panel or through the floor of vehicles with the propulsion source unit located at the rear. There shall not be more than one connection inside the body between the firewall and the first heater other than the connection at the heater.

(vii) Heater pipes and hoses. Heater pipes or hoses inside the body shall be covered or shielded. All pipes or hoses shall be continuous between engine and heaters, and between heaters, except where pipes or hoses are required to go over the wheel housing, where only two connections are permitted. Connections shall be made in such a manner as to prevent separation.

(i) New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law. All lamps, signals and reflectors shall conform with and be installed as required by section 375 of the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law and this Part.

(ii) Glare. All lights shall be designed or shaded so as to minimize reflection and glare on the windshield.

(iii) Interior lights. Interior lights shall be provided on each vehicle and must operate independently of all other lights. Such lights may be on a separate switch or switches and shall be sufficient in number and power to give suitable and evenly distributed illumination throughout the passenger compartment. The stepwell shall also be adequately illuminated.

(i) Red signal lamps. Every vehicle having a seating capacity of eight or more passengers, when used exclusively to transport pupils, teachers and other persons acting in a supervisory capacity to and from school or school activities, or to transport children, instructors or other persons acting in a supervisory capacity to and from child care centers maintained for migrant farm and food processing laborers or to transport children, instructors or other persons acting in a supervisory capacity to and from camp or camp activities, or to transport children, instructors or other persons acting in a supervisory capacity to and from religious service or instruction, shall be equipped as follows: There shall be colored flashing signal lamps conforming to regulations prescribed by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles on the front and on the rear thereof, including at least one flashing red signal lamp on the front thereof and at least one flashing red signal lamp on the rear thereof.

(i) Red signal and amber lamps. The body shall be equipped with system of four red signal lamps designed to conform with SAE Standard J887 “School Bus Red Signal Lamps” and four amber signal lamps designed to conform to the same standard except for color. Both red and amber lamps shall be installed as follows:

(ii) Tail lights. All school buses manufactured after January 1, 2000 shall be equipped with tail lights designed to prevent hitching to or riding thereon.

(i) All mirrors shall be easily adjustable, but shall be rigidly braced so as to prevent movement from vibration. No mirror shall be obscured by any component or vehicle structure.

(ii) Interior mirror. At least one interior rear view mirror shall be provided to afford the driver a clear view of the interior of the vehicle and shall be protected so as to be free of sharp corners and edges.

(iii) Left exterior mirror. An exterior rear view mirror shall be provided on the left side and so adjusted that the driver shall have a clear and full view of the road and condition of traffic to the rear.

(iv) Right exterior mirror. Every bus shall be equipped with a mirror attached to the right side and so adjusted that the driver thereof shall have a clear and full view of the road and condition of traffic to the rear.

(i) Interior mirror. Buses shall be equipped with an interior mirror made of safety glass with frame. Interior mirrors requiring replacement shall comply with this subdivision. All Type A buses shall have an interior mirror of approximately 6″ × 16″, while Types B, C, and D buses shall have an interior mirror of approximately 6″ × 30″.

(ii) Left front view mirror. Every school bus with a seating capacity of 12 passengers or more with its engine located ahead of the driver and all school buses manufactured after December 31, 1993 shall be equipped with a mirror, convex in shape, at least eight inches reflective surface in diameter, firmly mounted at hood, windshield or fender top height in front of the bus. It shall be located on the left side of the bus in such manner that the seated driver may observe through its use the road from the front bumper forward to the point where direct observation is possible.

(iii) Right front view mirror. Every school bus with a seating capacity of 12 passengers or more with its engine located ahead of the driver and all school buses manufactured after December 31, 1993 shall be equipped with a mirror, convex in shape, at least eight inches reflective surface in diameter, firmly mounted at hood, windshield or fender top height in front of the bus. The mirror shall provide a clear and full view of right side of bus, including the front of the right front wheel and an area at least six feet from the right side of the bus from in front of the right front door to the rear of the bus.

(i) Roof. The area of the vehicle commonly referred to as the “roof” may be painted white in order to reduce the inside temperature of the vehicle.

(ii) Hood. The hood may be painted lusterless black, and trim such as rub-rails may be painted with a contrasting color.

(iii) Chrome. Chrome grills and trim are permitted.

(iv) Fenders. All school buses shall be equipped with fenders, the color of national school bus chrome or school bus yellow. School buses with black, blue or green fenders prior to January 1, 1999 may continue to operate in school service until December 31, 2004, however, effective January 1, 2005, such buses shall only be allowed to operate in school service with fenders the color of national school bus chrome or school bus yellow.

(v) Bumpers. All school buses shall be equipped with bumpers, the color of black, national school bus chrome or school bus yellow. School buses with blue or green bumpers prior to January 1, 1999 may continue to operate in school service until December 31, 2004, however, effective January 1, 2005, such buses shall only be allowed to operate in school service with bumpers the color of black, national school bus chrome or school bus yellow.

(i) Bumpers. Front and/or rear bumpers shall be marked diagonally 45 degrees down to centerline of pavement with two-inch wide strips of reflective national school bus chrome material. There will be a two-inch wide strip (non-reflective) between each strip of reflective material.

(ii) Rear. The rear of vehicle body shall be marked with a strip of reflective national school bus chrome material no greater than two inches in width to be applied to the back of the vehicle, extending from the left lower corner of the school bus illuminated sign, across to the left side of the vehicle, then vertically down to the top of the bumper, across the vehicle on a line immediately above the bumper to the right side, then vertically up to a point even with the strip placement on the left side, and concluding with a horizontal strip terminating at the right lower corner of the school bus sign.

(iii) Sides. The sides shall be marked with reflecting national school bus chrome material at least six inches but not more than 12 inches in width, extending the length of the vehicle body and located (vertically) as close as practicable to the belt line. The width of the material may be reduced to no less than two inches if the marking material is a highly reflective sheeting that consists of prismatic lenses formed in a durable transparent resin which is certified by the manufacturer as meeting or exceeding the following standards: The initial coefficients of retroreflection of new sheeting shall not be less than the minimum values specified in Table 1. Measurements are made in accordance with ASTM E 810-94 Standard Test Method for Coefficient of Retroreflection of Retroreflective Sheeting except that values shall be an average of both 0φ and 90φ orientation for entrance angles of −4φ and 30φ. At all entrance angles, values shall be measured at observation angles + of 0.2φ and 0.5φ. The 90φ orientation is defined such that the length source is rotated in the same directions the sheeting would be applied to the vehicle surface.

(i) of at least 16-gauge steel, at least four inches in width, and constructed in a corrugated or ribbed manner. (Note: Pressed in, snap-on or combination panel and rub rails do not satisfy this requirement.);

(ii) applied to the outside body or outside body posts and attached twice at each body post and at all other upright structural members. (Note: For Type A-ll buses using chassis manufacturer body, or for type A-l, B, C, and D buses using rear engine compartment, rub rails need not extend around rear corners); and

(iii) constructed and affixed as to guard against riders being able to hold onto it.

(i) Arrangement. All seats shall be forward facing unless otherwise noted in this Part.

(ii) Construction. All seats shall be of substantial construction in conformance with FMVSS sections 571.207 and.222, and shall be securely fastened to the floor, or floor and side-wall. Seat attachments must comply with engineering standards of the manufacturers of the seat and the vehicle body.

(iii) Alternate seating configuration. Alteration or redesign of the seating arrangement shall comply with all requirements of this Part, including but not limited to sections regarding aisles, maximum gross vehicle weight rating, seat spacing, seat restraint support, and barriers. For SED/OGS school buses only, such proposals must be submitted to the department for approval prior to alteration.

(iv) Seat dimensions. All seat cushions except where noted shall be at least 2½ inches in design thickness, and all seat backs shall have a minimum design thickness of one inch. Depth shall be a minimum of 15 inches at the center of each seated position. There shall be no space between the seat cushion and seat back.

(v) Ceiling height. Minimum clearance between the top of seat cushions adjacent to the seat back and vehicle body interior overhead structure shall be 35 inches. Any body construction or installed device within 12 inches behind the contact point of the ceiling measurement must have at least two inches of padding and cover combined. Ambulettes equipped with longitudinal seats may measure approximately three inches out from the seat junction (seat back and cushion area) to the ceiling to determine the 35-inch headroom clearance.

(vi) Seating capacity. The adult seating capacity of every motor vehicle, exclusive of the driver, shall be at least 16 inches per passenger for seats accommodating adults. The child seating capacity of every motor vehicle shall be not less than 13 inches for each child passenger. The total weight of all the passengers and driver, which shall be figured at 120 lbs. per child and 150 lbs. per adult and driver, shall not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating for the motor vehicle.

(vii) Driver's seat. If separate from a passenger seat, the driver's seat shall be substantially constructed to support the drivers weight and be solidly fastened to the floor or sub-floor so as to not cause driver to lose control of the vehicle. A minimum of a three inch thick cushion and a two inch thick back padding and cover shall be provided. A minimum forward to rearward adjustment of 4 inches shall be provided with functional stops. Adjustment must provide a minimum of 13 inches between the closest point of the outer circumference of the steering wheel and the front of the seat back, measured parallel to the floor and without compression of the padding. The horizontal centerline of the cushion shall be aligned with the steering column to provide vision alignment and maximum manipulation of the steering wheel. The relationship of the seat to equipment and driver's controls shall be such that operation is convenient, safe, and comfortable when driver is seat belted. The seat height may be adjustable to such an extent that the seated driver has a unobstructed view of the highway. Pneumatic/electrically adjustable seats must comply with the minimum dimensions of this section.

(viii) Driver restraints (seat belts). The driver's seat shall be equipped in accordance with FMVSS and the restraint system shall be provided in accordance with the DMV regulations. Vehicles manufactured after January 1, 1990 shall be equipped with a locking retractor seat belt for the driver's seat. Each belt section shall be booted to keep the buckle and release mechanism off the floor and within reach of the driver. Belt shall be anchored in such a manner or guided at the seat frame so as to prevent the driver from sliding sideways under the belt.

(ix) Passenger restraints (seat belts). Passenger restraints shall be provided in accordance with FMVSS and New York State law.

(x) Child safety seats. Child restraint systems used for the transportation of children shall conform to FMVSS sections 571.213 and.222.

(xi) High back seats. Vehicles used in school transportation with a seating capacity of more than 11 passengers (adult measurement), exclusive of the driver, shall be equipped with padded seat backs 28 inches high.

(i) Passenger restraints (seat belts). Passenger restraints shall be provided for every seated passenger in every bus manufactured after July 1, 1987, and shall be in compliance with the FMVSS section 571.222. Vehicles with a GVWR of 10,000 lbs. or less shall comply with DMV regulations. The maximum seated capacity for students shall be 84 passengers (3 ×3 person seating).

(ii) Restraining barrier. Each bus shall be equipped with a restraining barrier forward of any designated seating position that does not have the rear surface of another school bus passenger seat within 27 inches from the frontal face of the seat back, measured with a rigid device held parallel to the floor, without compressing the respective padding(s). The barrier shall be as wide as the seat cushion of the seat it protects and shall provide a minimum of 24 inches for knee and cushion room. This shall be measured with a rigid device placed parallel to the floor, and contacting the highest point of the seat cushion or slightly above a specially designed lower lumbar support, without compressing the respective padding(s).

(iii) Construction. All seat frames shall be securely bolted at the aisle end to the floor and at the wall end to an all steel continuous longitudinal member or both ends to the floor. The longitudinal member shall have a minimum thickness of 14-gauge steel and shall be securely attached to the side body posts. Each seat foot shall be attached to the floor with at least two fasteners, which shall be bolts and nuts wherever possible, and to the longitudinal member with at least two bolts and nuts. Any brackets or attachments shall be welded either to the seat frame or to the longitudinal member. The horizontal leg of the longitudinal member shall not exceed 1½ inches. Each bolt extending below the floor shall be equipped with a washer or plate underneath the floor with a minimum thickness of 14-gauge steel not less than two inches square or equivalent and a nut locking device. Alternatively, the seat may be attached to the floor with a permanently mounted track or other similar type system that is designed and manufactured to provide equal or better attachment than above stated. Such system shall be installed as tested by original manufacturer.

(iv) Cushions. Seat cushions for pupils and drivers shall be constructed with springs, foam rubber, polyurethane foam, or other equivalent materials. If springs are used, there shall be at least 21 springs per/cushion. Padding used to cover springs shall be cotton, rubberized hair, foam rubber or other equivalent material. If cotton or similar material is used, padding for cushions shall be at least two inches thick, except for reasonable distance from edge of cushion to allow for curve of edges. If foam rubber or polyurethane is used without springs, the cushion thickness shall be approximately five inches and it shall be depressed not more than 80 percent when a distributed weight of 345 pounds is applied to it. If cotton or similar materials, rubberized hair, foam rubber, or polyurethane foam is used in seat back rests, it shall be approximately two inches thick and shall not be depressed more than 80 percent when distributed weight of 300 pounds is applied to it.

(v) Seat dimensions. Cushions shall be a minimum of 14 inches in depth, and may have a vertical plane or slope rearward, but not slope forward. Tops of backrests shall be a minimum of 33 inches above floor level.

(vi) Seat backs. School buses with a seating capacity of more than 11 passengers, exclusive of the driver, shall be equipped with padded seat backs 28 inches high, unless an economic hardship waiver for a pre-1976 school bus is granted from the State Education Department. The top side of the seat frame and the back on each seat (except rearmost seats) shall be padded with energy-absorbing material. The padding shall extend the entire length of the seat frame from the grab handles, if any, on aisle side to a corresponding location on the wall side.

(i) Arrangement. In buses operated in certificated service, the seats may be rear, longitudinal, diagonal or forward facing.

(ii) Cushions. All passenger seats shall be constructed in a manor that would not flash or explode on contact with a spark or open flame. Solid surface construction of seat material and required guardrails may be used provided that such material shall not crack, wilt or deteriorate under normal use.

(i) Safety treads. All Steps shall have safety treads with slip-resistance qualities.

(ii) Step height. The step on buses shall not be more than 18 inches nor less than 10 inches from the ground. Measurement shall be taken on a flat surface with tires fully inflated and bus unloaded.

(iii) Light. A stepwell with more than one step, shall be equipped with a stepwell light(s), wired through a switch which will cause the light(s) to operate when opening the door.

(iv) Stepwell reflectors. Pursuant to the Vehicle and Traffic Law, when a step has been added to a vehicle to aid passengers in boarding or alighting from the vehicle that causes the vehicle to become 80 inches or more in width, such vehicle need not be equipped with front or rear identification lamps or clearance lamps, provided that:

(i) at the initial inspection of any such school bus chassis, any deviation from this Part is not listed in the out of service criteria as an “A” item (see section 720.11 of this Part);

(ii) the vehicle complies with all applicable FMVSS requirements as of the date of manufacture or modification;

(iii) the manufacturer provide engineering and test data to the department, which clearly indicates the reason for not complying with the regulation; and

(iv) the vehicle condition does not present an imminent safety hazard.

(i) FMVSS. All chassis shall meet the applicable FMVSS as of date of manufacture. Compliance with such standards shall be certified by the manufacturer by attachment of a plate or decal. The manufacturer's GVWR that is not to be exceeded shall be listed on such plate or decal. As necessary, the wet curb weight of the vehicle shall be provided by the final stage manufacturer.

(ii) GVWR. The chassis shall be designed and constructed so that it will safely carry the appropriate body with its full passenger capacity (based on 120 pounds per child and 150 pounds per adult including the driver) without exceeding the manufacturers rated GVWR.

(iii) Wheelbase alterations. Altering the wheelbase by cutting the original chassis frame between axles is prohibited if the vehicle is to be used in school service. Such alternation work only shall be performed by the chassis or unit manufacturer or by others on a certificate of approval by the original manufacturer. Such certification shall contain a detailed description of the extension work and a statement as to the maximum carrying capacity after such extension. An extension may be installed at the rear end of the original chassis frame by the chassis manufacturer or the authorized representative of the chassis manufacturer, and reflected on the chassis manufacturer's certification of approval of such extension.

(iv) Frame alterations. Holes in top or bottom flanges of frame side rails or the frame cross members shall not be permitted, except as provided by the original chassis frame manufacturer. There shall be no welding to frame side rails except by chassis or body manufacturer or manufacturer's recommended procedure.

(v) Axles. Axles or other type of suspension shall have a gross weight rating at the ground at least equal to that portion of the total load which is supported by the axles. Axles or other types of suspension shall not be loaded beyond chassis manufacturer's gross weight rated capacity. Manufacturer shall provide certification of gross axle weight rating. The rated capacity of front assemblies shall not be less than required by FMVSS. Manufacturers may provide front axles or other types of suspension rated in excess of the above minimum.

(vi) Bumpers. All motor vehicles shall be equipped with a front and rear bumper which will be of sufficient strength to afford reasonable protection of fenders, body panels and lamps, in the event of a collision. The front bumper shall be constructed to reduce the possibility of locking the front wheels upon impact. For school buses only, the rear bumper shall be designed to prevent hitching to or riding thereon.

(vii) Clutch. On chassis having mechanical type transmission, the clutch torque capacity shall not be less than 10 percent in excess of the maximum net torque capacity of the engine.

(viii) Drive shaft. Assembly capacity shall be at least equal to the maximum net torque capacity of the engine, as developed through the lowest transmission gear reduction.

(ix) Drive shaft guard. The longitudinal drive shaff on buses with a capacity of 10 passengers or more shall be protected by a metal guard or guards to prevent the front end from dropping to the ground, as well as preventing any damage to the brake and fuel lines and exhaust system or from whipping through the floor in the event of a fracture or disconnection.

(x) Instrument panel. Instruments, gauges and controls shall be provided to assure safe operation of the vehicle. Such instruments, gauges and controls shall be mounted and located so as to be clearly identified and visible and within reach of driver in normal belted seated position. The instrument panel, as provided by chassis manufacturer, shall include all switches and gauges necessary for the safe operation and maintenance of the chassis.

(xi) Filters. All engines shall be equipped with:

(xii) Firewall. A firewall shall be provided to create a metal separation or equivalent between the engine and the body compartment. It shall either be built as an integral part of the separation wall or secured in place with bolts, lock washers and nuts, and shall be insulated so as to effectively prevent the penetration of heat, fumes or fire into the body compartment. The fire wall insulating material shall be fire proof that is equivalent to asbestos. All openings in the floorboard or firewall between the chassis and passenger carrying compartment, such as for gearshift lever and parking brake lever, shall be sealed unless altered by body manufacturer (see subparagraph [b][1][ii] of this section, body requirements). Exception: rear engine and forward control vehicle manufacturers constructing a body-chassis combination unit assume this responsibility.

(xiii) Governors. Each engine may be provided with either a governor set at the r.p.m of the engine that represents the recommended maximum performance within the safety range of the engine speed or a speed-regulated governor to control the maximum speed of the engine.

(i) Power or grade ability. The gross vehicle weight of any vehicle manufactured in 1977 or later shall not exceed 185 pounds percertified net published horsepower of the engine at the manufacturer's recommended maximum governed revolutions per minute.

(ii) Shock absorbers. At each wheel location, the chassis shall be equipped with front and rear double acting shock absorbers that are compatible with the manufacturer's rated axle capacity.

(iii) Springs. Springs or suspension assemblies the chassis manufacturer shall be of ample resiliency under all load conditions and of adequate strength to sustain loaded vehicle without evidence of being overloaded.

(iv) Transmission. The input torque capacity of manual or automatic transmissions shall at least equal the maximum net torque developed by the engine.

(v) Manual transmission. Each gear shall be synchromesh, except for first and reverse gears.

(i) Dual brakes. Every vehicle shall be equipped with brakes adequate to control the movement of and to stop and hold such vehicle. Vehicles with other then a duel brake system, which were not subject to 49 CFR 571.105 or 571.121, shall be equipped with two separate means of brake application: service brakes and an emergency brake. These two separate means of applying the brakes, if connected in any way, shall be so constructed that failure of any one part of the operating mechanism shall not leave the vehicle without operating brakes. The service brakes and the emergency brake shall be designed to be easily maintained in an efficient operating condition and be capable of stopping and holding a vehicle as specified in this section. Vehicles subject to the requirements of 49 CFR 571.105 or 571.121 shall be maintained in a manner that fully complies with said section(s).

(ii) Service brakes. Service brakes shall operate on all wheels and shall be capable of producing a smooth stop within a 12 foot road lane. Vehicles with a GVWR of 10,000 lbs. or less shall be capable of producing a rate of deceleration of 25 feet per second-per second at 20 miles per hour speed. Vehicles with a GVWR of 10,001 lbs. or more shall have power brakes capable of producing a rate of deceleration of 22.2 feet per second-per second at 20 miles per hour speed. The service brake system shall consist of at least two subsystems actuated by a single control designed so that a leakage type failure of a pressure component in a single subsystem (except structural failure of a housing that is common to two or more subsystems) shall not impair the operation of any other subsystem.

(iii) Brake reservoir. Every bus equipped with air brakes, hydraulic power system with accumulator, vacuum power brakes or power-operated doors shall have a reservoir of sufficient capacity to furnish power for at least two operations of the brakes and two operations of the doors or other power-operated devices after the engine has stopped.

(iv) Pressure gauge. Every bus equipped with air brakes or vacuum power brakes shall have a non-glare illuminated gauge, clearly visible to the driver, to indicate the pressure or vacuum in the reservoir. Such buses shall also be equipped with a device which will give a distinctive audible or visible warning signal when the pressure or vacuum in the reservoir is insufficient to activate any power-operated device on the bus.

(v) Air warning signal. Every bus using compressed air shall be equipped with warning signals, in addition to air pressure gauge/s, at least one audible or one visible to the driver, which will give continuous warning below a fixed pressure of not less than one half of the compressor governor cutout pressure. School use vehicles (other than charter type allowed for school activities) shall have both audible and visible warning devices. Vehicles equipped with an air operated emergency brake for application or release of an alternative device for application, the warning shall take place when pressure is at least 10 psi above automatic application.

(vi) Vacuum warning signal. Every bus with a GVWR of 10,001 lbs. or more using vacuum for the operation of the hydraulic brakes shall be equipped with a warning signal, audible and visible to the driver, which will give continuous warning whenever the vacuum reserve and reservoir is less than eight inches of mercury.

(vii) Power warning device. Every bus with a GVWR of 10,001 lbs. or more using a hydraulic power brake system shall be equipped with warning devices that give continuous, distinctive, audible and visible indication whenever available pressure in the system is insufficient to provide power-assisted brakes. Means shall be provided to establish whether or not the warning devices are in working order.

(viii) Tubing/hose. Brake tubing and brake hose shall be constructed of such material and shall be designed and installed as to insure proper continued use. Brake hose shall be constructed as to insure adequate and reliable functioning and conform to the appropriate specification set forth in the SAE standards for hydraulic brake hose, air brake hose or vacuum brake hose.

(ix) Reduced braking. Power brakes shall not be equipped with any device which upon application reduces the braking effort in such manner as to prevent compliance with the specifications of this section.

(x) Emergency deceleration rate. The emergency brake shall be capable of consistently stopping a vehicle at a rate of deceleration of 75 feet per second-per second from a speed of 20 miles per hour. It shall be so designed that whenever applied, the emergency brakes shall remain applied despite the loss of any source of energy or leakage of any kind.

Vehicles equipped with a separate exit door and an interlock device shall stop at a rate of deceleration of 75 feet per second-per second from a speed of 20 miles per hour when such interlock device is activated.

(xi) Installation. The compressor, reservoir, vacuum booster and all other vital parts of the service and emergency brake systems shall be securely installed, and located or protected so as to prevent damage to any part thereof, caused by incidents normal to transportation.

(xii) Check valve. Every bus equipped with either air or vacuum reservoirs shall have such reservoirs safeguarded by a check valve or equivalent device so that in the event of failure or leakage in its connection to the source of compressed air or vacuum supply in the reservoir shall not be depleted by the leak or failure. One or more means shall be provided to establish whether or not the check valve is in proper working order.

(xiii) Safety valve. Compressors and air brake systems shall be protected from overloading due to failure of governor operation with a safety valve installed in the system. The setting of the safety valve shall be determined by the manufacturer of the air compressor.

(xiv) Repair. Brake repair, replacement and/or re-manufacturing shall be performed in accordance with vehicle manufacturer's and brake component manufacturer's recommended procedures.

(xv) Testing. The service and parking brakes of every vehicle scheduled for service shall be tested by both controls before placing such vehicle in service and unless the brakes are in safe operating condition, the vehicle shall not be operated.

(xvi) Parking brake. Every vehicle subject to this Part shall have a parking brake as described 49 CFR 571.105 S5.2 or 571.121 S5.6. For all vehicles with a GVWR of greater than 7,716 lbs, the parking brake shall be capable of decelerating the vehicle at 75 feet per second-per second from a speed of 20 miles per hour for three seconds duration. Vehicles with a GVWR of less than 7,717 lbs. shall comply with New York State Department of Motor Vehicle annual inspection performance standards for parking brakes.

(i) Air pressure warning device. There shall be a device which will give a distinctive audible and visible warning signal when the air pressure or vacuum in the reservoir is insufficient to activate any power-operated device on the bus. Such warning device shall be readily visible to or easily recognizable by the driver.

(i) Location. No part of the exhaust system of a vehicle shall be located so that it would likely burn, char or damage the electric wiring, the fuel supply or any combustible part of the vehicle.

(ii) Federal standards. All vehicles shall meet applicable Federal motor vehicle emission standards.

(iii) State standards. Every motor vehicle registered in this State and manufactured or assembled after June 30, 1963 shall be equipped with a crankcase ventilating system, of a type approved by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) for the purpose of reducing the emission of pollutants into the atmosphere. Every motor vehicle registered in this State and manufactured or assembled after June 30, 1967 and known as a 1968 or subsequent model shall be equipped with an air contaminant emission control system of a type approved by DEC.

(iv) Installation. All parts of the exhaust system shall be securely installed outside of the body. The exhaust system shall be leak-proof and of ample capacity to afford a minimum of back pressure.

(v) Tailpipe. The tailpipe of a motor vehicle shall extend from the muffler to a point clearing the rear perimeter of the vehicle. It shall not terminate at any of the following locations:

(i) Construction. The exhaust system shall be constructed of seamless or electrically welded 16-gauge steel tubing or a 20-gauge stainless steel.

(ii) Gas line/tank proximity. Any exhaust pipe located within eight inches of gas tank or a gas line connection, or directly beneath the gas line connection, or directly beneath the gas tank or a gas line connection, regardless of distance, shall be insulated by means of metal diversion plates.

(i) Alteration. Any change in the construction, design or installation of a container that affects the strength or safety of the system.

(ii) ASME code. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code; section VIII, division I and section IX of the 1971 and later editions.

(iii) ASTM. The American Society for Testing and Materials.

(iv) CFR. The Code of Federal Regulations.

(v) CGA. The Compressed Gas Association.

(vi) CNG. Compressed Natural Gas.

(vii) Fuel supply container. A tank or cylinder installed on a vehicle to supply fuel for the propulsion system of the vehicle.

(viii) NFPA. The National Fire Protection Association.

(ix) LPG. Liquid Propane Gas.

(x) SAE. Society of Automotive Engineers.

(xi) Supply line. The piping, tubing or hose, including all related fittings, through which vapor or liquid passes between the first shut-off valve at the container and the final stage regulator or vaporizer.

(xii) UL. The Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.

(xiii) Vaporizer. A device that converts liquefied natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas to the gaseous state by means of heat.

(i) Installation. The installation of liquefied petroleum gas, compressed natural gas, or liquefied natural gas fuel systems on motor vehicle equipped with gaseous fuel carburetors shall be in accordance with the following requirements: driver, passenger, and luggage compartments. Fuel supply containers on vehicle shall not be located in or above the passenger compartment. Fuel supply containers shall be installed and fitted so that no gas from fueling and gauging operations or from relief valves can be released inside the driver, passenger, or luggage compartment.

(ii) Containers. Fuel supply containers shall meet all appropriate requirements of the ASME code, the USDOT regulations, and the regulations contained in this section. Fuel supply containers shall also comply with the following requirements.

(iii) Markings. Markings of set-to-discharge pressure for safety relief devices and working pressure of fuel supply containers required by this section shall be visible either directly or by use of a mirror after installation. All remote filling inlets shall be visibly marked with the type of fuel and the lowest working pressure of any fuel supply container in the system.

(iv) Venting. All safety devices that may discharge to the atmosphere shall be vented to the outside of the vehicle, and all discharge lines and outlets shall be installed as follows:

(v) Manifold shut off valve. Manifolds connected to fuel containers shall be supported to minimize vibration and shall be installed in a protected location or shielded to prevent damage from unsecured objects. A normally closed automatic shut-off valve that is held open by electrical current shall be installed in the outlet of the manifold and marked with the words AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF-VALVE. (Decals or stencils are acceptable.) The automatic shut-off valve shall be wired so it shuts off when the ignition switch is in the off or accessory position and when engine vacuum or oil pressure is not present.

(vi) Pipes, tubing, hoses, and fittings: Each shall meet the following requirements:

(vii) Supply lines. Supply lines passing through a panel shall be protected by grommets or similar devices, which shall snugly fit both the supply lines and the holes in the panel. Supply lines shall have a minimum clearance of eight inches from the engine exhaust system unless they are shielded from exhaust heat. Supply lines shall be supported at least every 24 inches and shall be prevented from sagging. Damaged lines shall be replaced, not repaired.

(viii) Shut-off valve. An automatic fuel supply shut-off valve shall be installed in a protected location adjacent to the manual shut-off valve on all vehicle and shall be activated by engine vacuum or oil pressure.

(ix) Carburetor flows. Means shall be provided in the system to prevent the flow of gaseous fuel to the carburetor when the ignition is in the off or accessory position, or from the carburetor when engine vacuum or oil pressure is not present.

(x) Duel fuel. Dual fuel systems using liquid and gaseous fuel shall have an automatic shut-off valve installed in the liquid fuel line to the carburetor.

(xi) Relief device. A bypass relief device shall be installed in the fuel pump or between the fuel pump and the automatic shut-off valve in the liquid fuel line to the carburetor on vehicle equipped with dual fuel systems for the use of gasoline and gaseous fuel. The relief device need not be installed on fuel pumps containing a bypass relief device as original equipment.

(xii) Electrical equipment. Radio transmitters, radio receivers, electric motors, or other electrical equipment (except vehicle lamps and wiring) shall not be mounted in a compartment with fuel supply containers, unless one of the following conditions is met:

(xiii) Road clearance. The fuel system, including the fuel supply container, shall be installed with as much road clearance as practicable. The lowest part of any component in the system, including protective guards, shall not be lower than the lowest edge of the vehicle differential housing under maximum spring deflection.

(xiv) Gasoline tank. Such tank shall not be placed below the aisle to a door, unless the area over such tank is adequately protected by metal shielding. This subdivision shall not apply to buses registered in another state or country and used in transporting passengers for hire within this State less than four times within any 12 consecutive months.

(xv) Certified fuel tanks. All buses manufactured after January 1, 1974 shall be equipped with diesel or gasoline fuel tanks certified and marked by the manufacturer as to comply with USDOT requirements. Replacement fuel tanks installed on any bus after January 1, 1974 shall comply with this subdivision.

(xvi) Supply lines. Gasoline or diesel fuel supply lines shall be connected above the bottom of the fuel tank. Buses manufactured after January 1, 1974 shall have the fuel supply line fitting located in the top of the tank. This subdivision shall not apply to buses registered in another state or country and used in transporting passengers for hire within this State not more than three times in any 12 consecutive months.

(xvii) Fuel system. All parts of the fuel system shall be securely installed outside of the passenger section and shall be located so as to prevent damage to any part thereof.

(xviii) Fuel tanks. Fuel tanks shall conform to 49 CFR section 393.65 of the USDOT regulations and shall have:

(i) Fuel supply container. Each LPG fuel supply container shall be constructed, inspected and permanently marked in accordance with the appropriate USDOT regulation or ASME code. Containers constructed to the USDOT regulations shall have a minimum service pressure of 240 psi. Containers constructed to the ASME code shall have a minimum working pressure of 250 psi. Every container must be equipped with an outage valve or a fixed liquid level gauge to indicate when the container is 79.8 percent full. A float gauge cannot be used to meet this requirement. In addition, containers must have a fill valve that limits filling to 80 percent of tank capacity.

(ii) Back-flow check valve. When two or more containers are used, a back-flow check valve shall be installed in each fuel line to prevent passing of fuel between tanks during filling operation. A hydrostatic relief valve with a pressure setting not lower than 350 psi nor higher than 500 psi shall be installed between the back-flow check valves and the gaseous fuel cutoff valve to the carburetor.

(iii) Container markings. Each LPG fuel supply container shall be permanently marked as follows:

(iv) Exception. For containers constructed to USDOT regulations, the permanent markings shall include:

All container inlets and outlets, except those for relief valves and gauging devices, shall note if they connect to vapor or liquid space.

(v) Valves. Valves shall be of a type that has been tested and listed by UL or by other nationally recognized testing laboratories as meeting the UL requirements for LPG. All valves shall be securely mounted and shielded or installed in a protected location to prevent damage from vibrations and unsecured objects.

(vi) Safety relief valves. One or more spring-loaded internal safety relief valves shall be installed directly in each fuel container in communication with the vapor space. The markings showing “set to discharge pressure” shall be visible after the valves are installed in the container. Safety relief valves for USDOT fuel supply containers shall be approved by the Federal Bureau of Explosives, and the valve setting shall be as required by the bureau. The safety relief valve setting for ASME containers shall not be less than 100 percent or more than 110 percent of the maximum allowable service pressure of the container.

(vii) Safety relief markings. Permanent markings on safety relief valves in ASME containers shall include:

(viii) Exception. Permanent markings on safety relief valves in USDOT containers shall include:

(ix) Excess flow valve. An internal excess flow valve shall be provided that is designed to close when maximum volume escapes through the smallest connection in the supply line valve or gauging device outlets. The excess flow valve shall have a bypass not to exceed a No. 60 drill size opening to allow equalization of pressure.

(x) Check valves. Inlet connections in the fuel supply container shall be fitted with either an internal and external check valve, or an internal check valve with an adjacent or remote manual shut-off valve. The inlet of the filling system shall be capped, except when filling, to withstand the maximum service pressure of the container. All containers installed after January 1, 1973 shall be equipped for remote filling exterior to the vehicle compartment with an internal and external check valve installed in the container.

(xi) Vapor equalizing valve. A vapor equalizing valve may be installed in the fuel supply container. The valve shall be capped, except when filling to withstand the maximum pressure of the container.

(xii) Shut-off valve. A manually operated shut-off valve shall be installed directly into the fuel supply container outlet connection serving the supply line and shall be marked with the words “SHUT-OFF VALVE.” (Decals or stencils are acceptable).

(xiii) Liquid volume gauge. All LPG containers shall be equipped with a liquid volume gauge, which shall be designed and installed as follows:

(xiv) Pressure reducing regulator. An automatic pressure reducing regulator or a regulating vaporizer designed to withstand a service pressure of at least 250 psi shall be installed between the LPG fuel supply container and the carburetor. All regulators and vaporizers shall be of a type that has been tested and listed by UL or other nationally recognized testing laboratories as meeting the UL requirements for LPG. The regulator or vaporizer shall be installed so that its weight is not placed on, or supported alone by, the attached tubing or flexible lines.

(xv) Vents. Every compartment in which an LPG container is installed shall be vented to the atmosphere unless all piping and connectors are exterior to the compartment. The vent or vents shall be installed at the lowest practicable point of the compartment and shall have an open area totaling not less than three square inches.

(xvi) LPG hose for high pressure liquid or vapor use. All LPG hose and hose assemblies shall have a working pressure of not less than 350 psi and a burst pressure of not less than 1750 psi. Each hose shall be reinforced with corrosion-resistant wire braid and shall be of a type that has been tested and listed by UL or by other nationally recognized testing laboratories as meeting the UL requirements for LPG. Each LPG hose shall have the following permanent identification markings in letters and numerals at least ¾ inch in height at intervals of 24 inches or less:

(i) Fuel supply container. Each CNG fuel supply container shall be constructed and inspected in accordance with USDOT regulations and shall have a rated service pressure of not less than 2250 psi at 70°F. It shall not be filled beyond the working pressure stamped on the tank and marked near the filler connection, corrected for the ambient temperature at time of filling as prescribed by USDOT.

(ii) Markings. Each CNG fuel supply container shall have the following identification markings:

(iii) Shut-off valve. A manually operated shut-off valve shall be in direct contact with the container and shall be marked with the words “SHUT-OFF VALVE.” (Decals or stencils are acceptable.) No valve shall be used for CNG unless it has been certified for that purpose by the manufacturer. The shut-off valve shall be securely mounted and shielded or installed in a protected location to prevent damage from vibration and unsecured objects.

(iv) Safety relief device(s). One or more safety relief devices shall be installed in the fuel supply container in communication with the fuel and vented to the outside of the vehicle compartment. Relief devices shall be approved as to type, size, quantity, and location by the Federal Bureau of Explosives and shall have the following permanent identification markings:

(v) Gauges. Gauges used in CNG systems shall be designed and installed as follows:

(vi) Automatic pressure reducing regulator(s). An automatic pressure reducing regulator or regulators shall be installed in CNG systems to reduce container pressure to a value consistent with the working pressure required by the carburetor. Means shall be provided to prevent malfunction due to refrigeration effects. Regulators shall be installed so that their weight is not placed, on, or supported alone by, the attaching line or lines. Regulators shall be designed to a container's maximum working pressure and temperature with a pressure safety factor of not less than four.

(vii) Vent(s). Every compartment in which a CNG container is installed shall be vented to the atmosphere, unless all piping and connections exterior to the compartment are vapor sealed and vented to the atmosphere. The vent or vents shall be installed at the highest practicable point of the compartment and shall have an open area totaling not less than three square inches.

(i) Fuel supply container. Each LNG fuel supply container shall be constructed and inspected in accordance with 49 CFR section 178.57 specification 4L for welded cylinders insulated with the exception of sections 178.57-13 and 178.57-20 and the reports to the Federal Bureau of Explosives in section 178.57-4(d). Each LNG container shall meet the following additional requirements:

(ii) Markings. Each LNG fuel supply container shall have the following permanent identification markings:

(iii) Valves certification. Valves shall be certified for liquid natural gas use by the manufacturer or certified for cryogenic service at temperatures down to and including -320°F. All valves shall be securely mounted and shall be shielded or installed in a protected location to prevent damage from vibration and unsecured objects.

(iv) Safety relief valve(s). Each container shall be equipped with one or more safely relief valves. The safety relief valve shall be installed in a line that communicates with the vapor space of the container. A safety relief valve shall be installed between two shut-off valves in a supply line to prevent a buildup of pressure between the valves in the off position. The discharge pressure of safety relief valves shall not exceed 125 percent of the service pressure of the container. Relief valves shall have sufficient capacity to meet the requirements of either the Federal Bureau of Explosives for approval of safety relief valves or NFPA standard 59 (A) - appendix A and be capable of preventing explosion of the normally charged cylinder when it is placed in a fire. Relief valves shall have the following permanent identification markings:

(v) Shut-off valve(s). One manually operated shut-off valve shall be secured directly to the tank vapor outlet with no intervening fitting other than the relief valve and shall be marked with the words “VAPOR SHUT-OFF VALVE.” Another manually operated shut-off valve shall be secured directly to the tank liquid outlet and shall be marked with the words “LIQUID SHUT-OFF VALVE.” (Decals or stencils are acceptable.) Normally closed automatic shut-off valves that are held open by electrical current may be used in lieu of manual shut-off valves at either the tank vapor port or tank liquid port, or both. An automatic shut-off valve shall be wired so it shuts off when the ignition switch is in the off and accessory positions and when engine vacuum or oil pressure is not present.

(vi) Control valve. A positive shut-off valve shall be installed in the fuel supply lines as close to the containers as possible, automatically closing off and preventing the flow of fuel to the carburetor when the ignition switch is off or in the accessory position.

(vii) Gauges. Gauges used in LNG systems shall be designed and installed as follows:

(viii) Pressure reducing regulators. LNG systems shall be equipped with one- or two-stage pressure reducing regulators. The regulators shall be installed so that their weight is not placed on, or supported alone by, the attaching tubing or flexible lines.

(ix) Vent(s). Every compartment in which an LNG container is installed shall be vented to the atmosphere unless all piping and connectors are exterior to the compartment. The vent or vents shall be installed at the highest practicable point of the compartment and shall have an open area totaling not less than three square inches.