Restraints

Seat belts became mandatory for all in 2001, and since October 2001 are a legal requirement to all minibus seats. Seat belts and seat belt fixing points must meet minimum strength standards **

Generally referred to as M2 (M1 standards apply to lower capacity passenger carrying vehicles). Most seat belts in minibuses are attached directly to the individual seats (unlike most cars) and therefore the complete seat and its mounting to the vehicle must also meet M2 standards.

Wheelchair restraints

Any wheelchair must be securely restrained. There are many systems available, from the age-old wheelchair clamp, to a wide variety of four-point webbing systems. Alternatively, there are a number of “backrest” or “rear-locking” systems. Not all restraints are suitable for all designs of wheelchair, and some will not suit all wheelchair positions in different vehicles.

The wheelchair occupant must also wear a restraint (unless travelling on a local service bus where standees are permitted). A lap belt or harness attached to the wheelchair only will not be suitable. There are several designs of restraint and all are attached directly or indirectly to the vehicle. Ideally, any restraint should pass over the passenger’s lap and at least one shoulder.

Stowage is provided for clamps and wheelchair passenger restraints.

**The strength requirements are detailed within Directives 76/115, 81/575, 90/629 and ECE regulation 14