Safe use of the BSO Bus checked

In recent years, these sector organizations have worked to bring the BSO Bus back onto the roads. Agreements were made regarding the safe use of the BSO Bus. These agreements were laid down in a covenant. In May, an initial sample survey was conducted among childcare organizations that use the BSO Bus. The survey assessed whether users were complying with the agreements on safe use. The results show that the selected organizations recognize the importance of these agreements and are working together to uphold them.

Safe routes for all types of transportation

Just as we consider safe transportation with the BSO Bus, we must consider the safety of every type of transportation. “For example, think about transportation by minibus taxi, cargo bike or bicycle, public transport, or on foot. The BSO Bus uses, among other things, predetermined safe routes. Possible unsafe situations along the way are also considered. You can use these kinds of measures for other forms of transportation as well,” says Gjalt Jellesma, chair of BOinK.

Is taking a detour by bicycle safer?

Emmeline Bijlsma, director of BK: “For example, think about the route to the swimming pool that the BSO children take by bicycle. Is the fastest route also the safest route? Or would it be better to take a short detour? Make sure you set out well prepared and know which risks you may encounter.” Gjalt adds: “Also consider which staff member you will assign during the outing. For an outing by train, this could be someone who travels by train more often.”

Explore unfamiliar routes

“During the holiday period, people often take different routes from those the staff normally use and know well. It is important to consider this together in advance,” says Loes Ypma, chair of BMK. “There is often an activity schedule, and the location of an outing is already known. As part of preparing for the outing, go over the route together in advance. Do not just look at how to get from A to B, but also at what you will encounter along the way. On the morning itself, you can briefly revisit this during the pre-departure briefing. By thinking about these kinds of matters in advance, you can prevent surprises on the day itself or during transportation. That is a reassuring thought when you are on the road with a group of excited children.”

Getting started with safe transportation

In the ‘Safe Routes for the BSO Bus’ checklist, you will find a step-by-step plan for establishing safe routes and other tips on safe transportation. This checklist is intended to support childcare organizations in establishing safe routes for the BSO Bus. This step-by-step plan can also be used to establish safe routes for other forms of transportation. Will BSO Buses soon be delivered to your organization? Then make sure you comply with the agreements in the covenant. Here you can find the information that helps you comply with these agreements.

The tips at a glance

  • Choose the safest route, even if that means taking a detour by car or bicycle.
  • Can you not avoid an unsafe situation? Then consider how you can make that situation as safe as possible.
  • Discuss unfamiliar routes, for example when preparing for an outing. What will you encounter along the way? What is the safest route?
  • Use the ‘Safe Routes for the BSO Bus’ checklist for other types of transportation as well.
  • Include the transportation agreements in the health and safety policy.
  • Make it a fun summer!

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