Mersey WeaverMiDAS is the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme, organised by the Community Transport Association U.K. (CTA) which promotes a nationally recognised standard for the assessment and training of minibus drivers. It is a membership based scheme that has been designed to enhance minibus driving standards and promote the safer operation of minibuses.
MiDAS is applicable to any organisation operating or using minibuses. Member organisations range from small voluntary organisations operating one vehicle, to local authorities operating large fleets of minibuses as well as schools, colleges and universities.
MiDAS operates on a “cascade” approach. CTA has appointed a number of training agents, who provide training for minibus Driver Assessor/Trainers (DAT’s) nominated from member organisations.
A DAT can then assess the competence of other minibus drivers, and provide them with training on how to safely use a minibus.
The course gives information and practical experience on how to undertake a minibus driving assessment in an objective and consistent manner, how to structure on-road assessments, provide “classroom based” safety training, and refresher training.
The safety training, which can be delivered on a group or individual basis, uses key learning points from a number of areas:
- Legal Responsibilities of a Minibus Driver
- Passenger Safety
- Child Passenger Safety
- Driving for Safety and Economy
- Manual Handling Awareness
- Health & Safety Awareness
- Accident & Emergency Procedures
- Personal Safety for Drivers
Drivers who successfully complete the MiDAS assessment and training programme will receive a nationally recognised certificate valid for four years, as well as the option of obtaining the comprehensive “MiDAS Driver’s Handbook”.