Preliminary study on current process of bus component inspection among public bus transport in Malaysia

Abstract

Public transport bus services are generally based on regular operation of transit buses, along a route calling at agreed bus stops according to a published public transport timetable. Types of bus services are urban transport, long distance transport, flexible bus services and specialist services. Buses services are sometimes delayed due to breakdown of the bus components. Therefore, continuous inspection of buses is needed to make sure they are in good condition to avoid any breakdown. The process of bus inspection in Malaysia is mostly carried out either by the bus company itself or sending the buses back to the bus manufacturers. A bus will be inspected daily, weekly or monthly based on the usage of the bus or mileage. A preliminary study was conducted to find out the preliminary screening process of a bus before it is used for a trip. A set of questionnaire with open and closed questions were presented to some of the bus companies through the workshop manager. The survey was conducted on five companies that run regular bus inspections in the country. The results showed that each company has its own process in the course of an inspection. Though there are companies that still use checklist form, there are companies that use special software and conduct online checks. In addition, there are also companies which inspect buses depending on the bus mileage. Mileage for bus inspections should be based on the type of bus service for either a short or long distance. Therefore, a strategic and futuristic plan has to be developed for systematic examination for proper management, safety, high reliability and reduce cut maintenance cost.