Examines critically the National Transportation Safety Board's post-1977 school bus standards, which encourage but do not require seat belts. (JBM)

New school bus safety guidelines went into effect last May. The safety measures are voluntary and their purpose is to help state officials as they review school bus standards. Summarizes accident statistics and briefly describes some of the more serious accidents involving school buses. (MLF)

Looks at some of the current requirements for school bus safety under Standard 17 developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (Author/WM)

Almost a quarter of disabling work injuries among school employees are caused by slips and falls. Outlines prevention steps and safety programs that can help lower the possibilities of accidents from falls in schools. (MD)

Offers tips for avoiding sports-related injuries: (1) expect more of coaches; (2) develop an athletic-safety plan; (3) consider hiring an athletic trainer; (4) check facilities and equipment regularly; (5) recognize athletes' limitations; (6) take precautions beyond the playing field; and (7) check liability coverage and obtain informed consent.…

Lists several safety features for school buses and their approximate costs. School districts often miss out on these features if they operate under a low-bid-takes-all purchasing system. (Author/WM)

Outlines basic considerations about playground safety and accessibility. Proposes playgrounds to be constructed for children in inner-city neighborhoods that would be carefully supervised, be easily accessible to the community, and provide children with a range of activities and experiences. (MLF)

A 1988 school bus disaster in Kentucky killed 27 passengers. A new book, "Reckless Disregard: Corporate Greed, Government Indifference, and the Kentucky School Bus Crash," by James S. Kunen, recounts the accident and the long court struggle to prove why the children died. Cites federal standards for bus safety that have been upgraded several times…

Argues that all drivers of school buses should be trained professionals, and explains how parent awareness of discipline problems on buses can be increased by playing them a tape recording of a ride. Discusses the efforts of a research team to draft a performance standard for the construction of a school bus body with emphasis on panel separation,…