Bus Driver Protection - Sydney Buses

Stakeholder: Sydney Buses

The viiolence experienced by bus drivers is instigated by different people and in all manner of ways including physical attack, verbal abuse and throwing objects.

This proposal looks at possible solutions which attempt to intervene in the situation giving the driver time to take control.

’Human’ solutions were explored which affect the perceptions of people and the drivers. Practical systems were also explored which address the problem in an immediate emergency situation.

As buses become a preferred mode of it is crucial that Sydney’s bus system maintains a high standard of service and a respectable reputation, instilling pride in Sydney’s commuters for their transport system and for their city.

Considerations included the physical environment of the bus and the bus top, the rhythms of the bus driver’s day and life and the rhythms of commuters.

It was important to consider the emotions, stress levels, perceptions and attitudes of Sydney’s people (office workers, students, mums, elderly and school children) and of the drivers themselves - each holding varying levels of experience and expertise.