BUSK Benchmark
The Gold Standard for Safety & Compliance in the UK
The UK's Only Independent Star Rating
BUSK Benchmark is the UK's first and only completely independent star rating for the minibus and coach industry based on safety and legal compliance.
Our members are held to a standard that is higher than the legal minimum requirement. They undergo independent audits of their management, safety systems, and driver training when they join, periodically during their membership, and are also subject to random spot checks.
Why Choose a Benchmark Member?
Hiring transport carries a legal duty of care. Choosing the cheapest option can compromise safety.
Peace of Mind, Backed by National Guidance
Thanks to the efforts of BUSK, the latest national guidance provides the key questions that all schools need to raise at point of coach hire.
When you hire a Benchmark member, you are fulfilling your legal duty of care by choosing a provider that has been independently verified for safety and compliance. Remember, if a quote seems too good to be true, it usually is!
View National GuidanceMore Than a License Check
It's a mistake to believe that an Operator's License alone is a guarantee of safety. Our audits go far deeper, because when it comes to passenger safety, ignorance is no excuse in the eyes of the law.
Easily Recognisable
Our members are easy to recognise. Look out for the Benchmark logo on their fleet, websites, and marketing material—it's a badge of trust and safety.
Insights from Our Auditor
Expert guidance on compliance and safety standards
Colin Gossage
Benchmark Auditor
Updated Brake Testing Requirements
Recently, the Traffic Commissioners have updated their advice to operators for the safe operation of vehicles.
Section 5.3. Braking Performance Assessment Clarified Requirements
"There is an expectation that an operator must ensure that all safety inspections include a recorded brake test".
"When the operator has assessed the risks, and deems it appropriate to conduct decelerometer assessments, they must carry out a minimum of four roller brake tests, spread evenly across the year (this can include the annual test). Where a roller brake test is not carried out with a safety inspection, a decelerometer test with temperature readings would be an acceptable means of assessing brake performance".
Some recent articles in trade press have focused on the promotion of their own products by the omission of some words from the guidance. However, the amendments still allow for the use of other brake assessment devices.
These are minimum standards. Taking every opportunity to conduct a brake test/assessment creates the peace of mind that you have done as much as possible. Faulty brake units will disrupt the flow of safety inspections and normal maintenance.
"In my experience having a programme of regular RBT tests was an essential/comforting requirement, but the greatest and simplest brake testing programme was the £16 to £25 laser temperature sensor.
A laser temperature sensor in the hands of a responsible team member is an effective tool. When vehicles return from service, the reporting of temperature imbalance between brake wheel units can be a simple fix, allowing for the planning of work without disrupting normal working.
Recording the checks shows a responsible considered approach to this extremely important topic.
If you do have an RBT, which is desirable, use it and record the outcome at regular intervals, not just four times a year, and use the heat meter regularly and record the outcome.
If you don't have an RBT, comply with the minimum requirement and use the heat meter regularly and record the outcome. It works."
Are You an Operator?
Join the UK's leading safety standard and demonstrate your commitment to excellence. Contact us for an informal chat or download an application pack today.