#Japan #Tokyo #disaster response #Kokusai Kogyo #Safety Training Bus

Introduction of Kokusai Kogyo's Safety Driving Training Bus

In a significant step towards enhancing public transport safety, Kokusai Kogyo Co., Ltd. has introduced its first fleet of ten Safety Driving Training Buses. These buses are specially equipped for both driver instruction and emergency response, thereby improving the overall safety standards of their public transportation services. With one bus assigned to the Safety Education Center and the remaining nine distributed across local bus depots, the initiative showcases the company's commitment to prioritizing safety in transportation.

Objectives of Safety Driving Training Bus Implementation

Strengthening Driver Education

Kokusai Kogyo has designed these Training Buses with an innovative layout that allows for comprehensive driver education without the need to leave the vehicle. The buses include specialized features such as an instructor seat next to the driver and the incorporation of a supplementary brake system and simulated hazard operation buttons. These tools enable instructors to effectively demonstrate various safety scenarios, such as child hazards and door operation warnings, during live instruction.

Additionally, the buses come equipped with an Around View Monitor to reduce blind spots and a large display monitor that integrates real-time footage from both dash cameras and internal cameras. This allows instructors to give instant feedback during practical training sessions and improves the overall learning experience.

Commitment to Safety Management and Disaster Preparedness

Kokusai Kogyo is actively addressing safety management and disaster response, with the introduction of dedicated training vehicles being a cornerstone of this effort. Previously, the company utilized standard operational buses for training purposes; however, the new Training Buses are designed specifically for safety education, allowing for more focused and rapid responses to safety concerns.

An internal team was formed to oversee the implementation of these vehicles, comprising experts from various departments. This collaborative approach ensures that the buses function efficiently and fulfill their educational purpose while adhering to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's initiatives for enhancing public transport safety.

Use as Disaster Response Vehicles

In line with the public transport duty to serve during major disasters, these Training Buses are also equipped with features that enable them to operate as emergency response vehicles. Each bus is fitted with two high-capacity 1500W inverter generators that ensure power independence during outages. This setup can support critical operational technology such as computers, monitors, communication devices, and alcohol detection systems.

In disaster situations, these buses can provide vital power supplies to affected areas or serve as a command center for emergency response efforts, offering support in organizing evacuation activities and other necessary operations to stabilize the community.

Detailed Specifications of Safety Driving Training Buses

• - Total Units: 10 buses (1 at Safety Education Center, 9 at local depots)
• - Base Vehicle: Standard non-step route buses (5000 series, manual transmission)
• - Key Safety and Training Features:

- Instructor seat and supplementary brake
- Hazard simulation buttons for real-time demonstration
- Around View Monitor to minimize blind spots
- Large rear monitor for multiple simultaneous trainings
- Salon-style rear seating for immediate training and feedback post-lesson
- Speed display and G-sensors for emergency training
- Sound level measuring devices installed in two positions

• - Disaster Management Features:

- Two 1500W inverter generators for power supply
- Capability to serve as a local emergency response command center

• - Design: Each Training Bus is distinctly wrapped with promotional graphics that identify it as a 'Driving Training Bus' to ensure easy recognition in public transport.

Conclusion

Through the introduction of these Safety Driving Training Buses, Kokusai Kogyo is setting a new standard for driver safety education while also enhancing disaster preparedness capabilities. This initiative not only aims to improve the safety of public transportation but also reinforces the critical role of reliable transportation services during emergencies, making communities safer and more resilient.