Interpretation ID: nht93-2.21

DATE: March 19, 1993

FROM: Connie Hafenstine -- Chief, Bureau of Personnel Services, Kansas Department of Transportation; Larry Bluthardt -- Director of Pupil Transportation, Kansas Department of Transportation

TO: Patricia Breslin -- Director, Office of Vehicle Safety Standards

TITLE: None

ATTACHMT: Attached to letter dated 4/22/93 from John Womack to Larry Bluthardt (A41; Std. 124)

TEXT: I'm in receipt of a letter from one our Contract Managers concerning the use of built-up foot operated throttle controls. The following questions were asked:

1. Is there any violation of the FMCSR'S in conjunction with the FMVSS concerning the modification of a school bus foot operated throttle control or other equipment modifications that may relate to the physical accommodation of a commercially licensed driver to perform his or her duties behind the wheel?

2. If we can modify the foot operated throttle control to the vehicle (school bus), does the modification require specific registration, certification or inspection prior to the installation?

FOR EXAMPLE: Can the modification be made and installed locally, or should the modification be purchased and installed by a certified commercial vendor i.e., manufacturer.

Thank you for your assistance. We await your reply.