Experts have backed a series of safety improvements drawn up by the Transport Department and franchised bus operators.

The Transport Advisory Committee was briefed today on the review conducted by bus operators on enhancing safety. Members noted there has been a general downward trend in the number of bus accidents per million-kilometres in the past few years and most of them were minor.

Committee chairman Jeffery Lam said: "Although no direct correlation can be identified between bus accident rates and the age, years of service and working hours of drivers, the department and operators are considering a series of measures to further enhance bus safety."

The committee urged the Government and operators to implement the measures as soon as possible.

Bus safety improvements

They include:

* annual medical checks for drivers 50 or above;

* driver training enhancement;

* introduction of guidelines on drivers' work schedules;

* installation of safety devices and measures to monitor driving behaviour;

* more stringent vehicle examination; and,

* promotion of driver and passenger safety awareness.

Parking and autotoll issues also endorsed

Members were also briefed on the latest demand and supply situation of parking provisions and the progress of implementing the recommendations of the Second Parking Demand Study to address parking-related problems. They backed the Government's new measures.

They were also briefed on the findings of a trial scheme on the new autotoll signage and road marking arrangements at road tunnels and bridges. Mr Lam said members support the Government's proposal to extend them to all tolled roads and bridges to further enhance road safety at toll plazas.