Buckle guard usage
Transport services are currently reviewing the use of buckle guards.
We’d like to remind operators that where a buckle guard is considered necessary for a passenger, transport services must be informed and must provide authorisation.
We will only give authorisation if incident reports have been received, all alternative options have been explored, and written consent has been provided by parents or carers.
Before contacting transport services to request the use of a buckle guard, operators should ensure they have tried all other measures, such as changes to seating plans, crews, passenger mix, lone transport, use of appropriate seat for passenger, PA sitting next to passenger, distraction techniques agreed with parents or schools, safe distraction items where appropriate and whether a 1:1 PA needs to be requested where shared transport is involved.
If transport services have not provided authorisation, then a buckle guard cannot be used.
If you’d like any further advice, please contact the team