Bus Drivers, School - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, school bus drivers:

Are responsible for the health and safety of passengers.
Have a high level of social contact with students and teachers. They occasionally interact with parents.
Communicate with passengers in person on a daily basis. They also communicate by telephone, but less often.
Are sometimes placed in conflict situations where they must deal with children who might be rude or angry.
[ More ]
Work on a team. It is very important for bus drivers to work cooperatively with maintenance and scheduling coworkers.

Are sometimes exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable.
Usually work outdoors and inside vehicles. Generally work indoors only to fill out paperwork.
May be exposed to contaminants and the diseases and infections carried by school children.
May be exposed to hazardous driving conditions.
[ More ]
Work within several inches of passengers that require assistance boarding.

Repeat the same physical and mental activities daily.
Make driving decisions that greatly impact their passengers. They do this on a daily basis.
Have the ability to make errors resulting in very serious consequences. Errors while driving can result in accidents and injury to passengers.
Must keep control of the vehicle and keep pace with traffic.
[ More ]
Can make most decisions without consulting a supervisor.
Must meet strict schedules daily.

Typically work less than 40 hours a week.
May work split shifts. For example, they might work from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., with time off in between.
Work only when schools are in session.
Generally work a set schedule.