Annual bus roadworthy inspections: Evidence-based assessment of impact of proposed inspection procedures on safety and cost

Both the safety and reliability of bus services call for the operation of mechanically sound vehicles free of defects. These services are heavily dependent on a high standard of vehicle roadworthiness and maintenance of vehicle fleets in roadworthy condition through regular inspections (Rechnitzer, Haworth, & Kowadlo, 2000). Most countries around the world have implemented legislation requiring buses to stay roadworthy while in service.A desk-review of relevant national documents will be undertaken and comprised targeted research of national, state/territory government agency and relevant organiations' websites. A rapid review of published and grey literature will be undertaking to provide an understanding of the evidence surround the benefits and challenges of maintaining roadworthiness and the role of periodic inspections. A cost-benefit-analysis (CBA) will then be undertaken to quantify whether the advantages (benefits of the proposed inspection procedure are greater than its disadvantages (costs), or vice versa.