Alpine Express vehicle operators (bus driver) are thoroughly trained to perform vehicle pre-trip inspections, which they must complete each day before taking any bus on route. An Alpine Express
vehicle operator arrives prior to the start of their shift to inspect their assigned vehicle and complete a Bus Driver’s Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) documenting the process. Operators present any issues discovered during the pre-trip inspection to maintenance staff.

At the end of usage cycle for a bus, the vehicle operator performs a post-trip inspection that includes, but is not limited to, the following items:

  • Ensure correct operation of interior switches and gauges.
  • Remove from interior of bus loose trash and lost & found items.
  • Ensure there is enough fuel for bus to complete next usage cycle.
  • Perform exterior walk-around and check for:
    •  Tires with uneven wear, damage, or low pressure
    • Fluid leaks
    •  Air leaks
    • Cosmetic damage
    • Inoperable lights

Alpine Express maintenance staff confirms any issues identified during the pre or post-trip inspection and classifies them as follows:

  • Safety Defect – a defect in vehicle systems or ADA equipment that creates a safety-critical situation. Vehicle cannot be released until repairs are completed;
  • Mechanical Defect – a defect that may worsen and threaten safety or increase cost of repairs. Vehicle cannot be released until repairs are completed;
  • Elective Mechanical Defect – a defect that does not compromise safety and will not cause further damage if operated but needs to be corrected prior to next PM cycle. Vehicle is safe to operate but will be scheduled for as-needed repairs; or
  • Elective Cosmetic Defect – a defect that does not compromise safety and will not cause further damage or cost as it is an aesthetic defect. Repairs may be scheduled as determined by the shop supervisor.

Vehicles with critical (Safety or Mechanical) defects that cannot be immediately corrected are removed from service and the operator is assigned another vehicle. Safety-related and mechanical defects are noted on the DVIR, whereas elective defects are noted on the Maintenance Request Form (MRF). Issues encountered on route or during the required post-trip inspection are also reported on the DVIR or MRF.

The white copy of the DVIR Report or MRF is submitted to maintenance staff at the end of each usage cycle.

The maintenance staff reviews and addresses any issues reported on the white copies of the DVIRs or MRFs on a daily basis. Vehicles with critical defects are removed from service and scheduled for required repairs. Once repairs are complete, the mechanic signs and dates the yellow copy of the DVIR. Once the repaired bus is reassigned, the operator confirms the issue is corrected and also signs and dates the yellow copy of the DVIR.