Accidents and incidents on school transport

Guidelines for reporting accidents and incidents on school transport.

Level of compliance Main audience Other

Inform

  • Boards
  • Principals and Tumuaki
  • School Transport Provider(s)
  • Parents, Caregivers and Whānau

It is the transport service provider’s (TSP) responsibility to contact emergency services (111) during and after an accident or incident on school transport. This guidance provides you with an overview of the roles and responsibilities in an emergency. 

At the time of the accident or incident

Who notifies people? Who is notified? When
The driver or TSP Emergency services Immediately
TSP
  • Bus controllers at the schools serviced by the route
  • The regional Ministry of Education Transport Contract Manager
Immediately
Bus controller at the school The principals of the schools serviced by the route Immediately
Police Caregivers or next of kin If there's been serious injury or death.

After the accident or incident

Who What
TSP
  • Writes a report to the Transport Contract Manager detailing the circumstances of the accident/incident as soon as possible
  • Writes a report on its investigation, including identifying any remedial action required
Ministry Transport Contract Manager Liaises with the school and the TSP as needed
New Zealand Police Commercial Safety Team Investigates commercial vehicle accidents or incidents
Worksafe Investigates notifiable events to review and resolve health and safety issues

Last reviewed: Has this been useful? Give us your feedback