Bus operator training

Bus operator training

Introduction

After bus operator recruitment, training is the next crucial step for new hires. Training can also include refresher or continuing training programs for existing employees. According to research in 1999, approximately 63% of all new transit hires are inexperienced in public transit operations . A good training program can make all the difference in employee retention.

New Hires

New operator training varies greatly from agency to agency. Some agencies may be able to individually tailor training programs to the experience of the new hire. Many agencies hire trainees in groups and all employees must pass through the same basic training program. An average training program is approximately 32 days according to TCRP Synthesis 40 [17]. Agencies with numerous routes find they can reduce initial training time by focusing on the routes which the applicant is most likely to drive initially, and introduce other routes over time. Small systems may wish or need to train new employees on every route before releasing them to work solo.

Classroom Versus Road Training

Agencies should be aware of the trade-off between in-class and in-bus training time. While classroom and book or video based training is necessary to some extent, new hires can become disinterested and frustrated with perceived delays in getting on the road. All agencies spend a large portion of training on bus (not-in-service), and most include in-service training as part of their program. Some agencies may also use various forms of simulators. While applicants may come in with varying needs for driving skills, many agency managers have cautioned that customer service skills are the most important portion of new operator training.

Computer, video or paper-based training can be effective for reinforcing agency policy, rules and regulations.

On-bus training often includes a mix of agency professional training staff and peer-led operator training. Some agencies may have operator-led training guided by a professional trainer, and should pay attention that the operators providing training are doing so in accordance with agency policy and expectations. Techniques can include incentives for becoming a peer trainer and requirements to uphold certain expectations to maintain that status. Peer training can include a "mentor" program, which may be helpful in improving retention and transitioning a new hire into the regular workforce.

Refresher training

Relatively few agencies include a regular refresher training program as part of their work environment. Refresher training programs may be required by some states. Opportunities exist for refresher training to involve or be led by experienced operators who have demonstrated exemplary work.

Further Reading

Transit Cooperative Research Program. TCRP Synthesis 40 "A Challenged Employment System: Hiring, Training, Performance Evaluation, and Retention of Bus Operators." 2001.

American Public Transit Association. "Recommended Practice for Transit Bus Operator Training." 2007.