Bus-Driver Career Description
Bus-drivers convey passengers on scheduled routes and on a scheduled time.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
When bus-drivers pick up passengers at the bus stop, passengers must have the required fares or they must be able to furnish proof of the fact that they may travel free of charge on a certain company's bus.
It is the responsibility of the bus-drivers to drive their buses safely through the traffic and collect the required fares. In addition they see to the needs of their passengers, such as the
elderly, mothers with children, the blind, etc. They also collect lost articles in the bus at the end of each journey and hand them in at the central bus office. At each terminus they fill in their waybill, on which the passenger statistics for that specific route are updated.
Drivers attached to a touring or travelling company take people on bus tours throughout the country. Apart from being bus-drivers, they sometimes also act as tour guides.
Bus-drivers check their buses before departure from the overnight station shed. A defect card on which the condition of the brakes, windscreen wipers and lights is stated, is normally supplied for this purpose. At some transport organisations, such as the City Council of Pretoria, an inspection is done before each trip although it is not written on a specific card. All defects are reported to the workshop's personnel.
At some city councils, bus-drivers either work a five or six-day week. Permanent workers receive an allowance out of which their uniforms are purchased. Bus-drivers receive their first uniform as soon as they finish their training. With appointment as bus-driver, a complete wardrobe is received.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Bus-drivers should always be punctual, courteous and drive carefully. They should also be neat.
They should always strive to handle every situation as best as they can and be able to make accurate and quick decisions. They should be alert and try to prevent accidents, especially when driving in heavy traffic or bad conditions. Furthermore, a sense of responsibility and cautiousness are expected from them.
Good eye-hand co-ordination, sight and health are important requirements prospective busdrivers should conform to.
Driving a bus through heavy traffic is not physically strenuous, but it may cause strain and fatigue. Emotional stability and the ability to stay calm are good attributes, since the work is especially stressful.
Where can I work?
Bus-drivers are employed at municipalities, travel agencies, private firms. Devoted and cautious drivers are promoted on merit.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Self-employment opportunities are limited, however, with the necessary funds and experience, persons may set up a private company that employs bus-drivers.
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