MINNEAPOLIS — Motorcoach operators, suppliers, and industry leaders gathered in Minneapolis last week to focus on safety and maintenance as part of the American Bus Association’s Bus Industry Safety Council (BISC) summer meeting.
The Minnesota Charter Bus Operators Association hosted a “Welcome to Minnesota” reception on Aug. 20, bringing together attendees for networking, cocktails and exhibits from sponsors that included Bridgestone, Motor Coach Industries, PAX Training, Prevost, Transportation Advisors, TEMSA North America and United Bus Sales.
MCBOA President Chad Ely opened the evening by underscoring the group’s commitment to industry progress.
“MCBOA is proud to represent Minnesota’s leading motorcoach operators, and we are deeply committed to raising the bar on safety and maintenance,” Ely said. “Partnering with the American Bus Association on this program, alongside the support of Meet Minneapolis and Bloomington (Minnesota) Travel & Tourism, reflects our shared mission to strengthen the motorcoach industry and ensure its long-term success.”
Safety tool touted
One highlight of the gathering was a presentation by Mike McDonal, director of regulatory compliance and industry relations for Saucon Technologies, on the importance of using the Safety Management Cycle (SMC). Developed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the tool helps identify and address motor carrier safety and compliance issues.
The SMC evaluates safety management processes in six areas: policies and procedures; roles and responsibilities; qualification and hiring; training and communication; monitoring and tracking; and meaningful action. Carriers are encouraged to use the framework to prevent breakdowns and to review processes after compliance concerns or crashes.
“There’s an old saying in the business world that is used from time to time, and it probably applies here,” said Ken Presley, vice president of legislative and regulatory affairs and COO of the United Motorcoach Association. “The old saying: It worked so well we stopped using it.”
Presley noted that with insurance premiums rising, the SMC can help carriers quantify safety efforts in terms that underwriters may recognize. Resources for each behavior analysis and safety improvement category are available in the information center on the Safety Measurement System website at http://ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/sms.
The reception, held during the ABA’s three-day program, underscored MCBOA’s role in promoting collaboration and best practices. By aligning with ABA and industry stakeholders, the Minnesota association aims to enhance the state’s profile on the national stage while creating opportunities for members to connect and learn.
The Minnesota Charter Bus Operators Association represents the state’s motorcoach operators and partners. The organization provides education, advocacy and networking opportunities with a focus on safety and professionalism. More information is available at www.mcboa.net.
