When are operators required to check for articles left by passengers?

Operators are required to check for articles left by passengers at the arrival of each terminal because this is a critical moment to ensure the bus is clear of any personal belongings that may have been forgotten. Terminals serve as the final destination for many passengers, and taking the time to perform this check helps maintain the safety and cleanliness of the vehicle, prevents potential disputes, and shows consideration for the next passengers who may board.

Checking at terminals also allows operators to manage lost and found items appropriately, as any belongings left behind can be organized and stored properly, reducing the risk of items being lost or damaged. While checking at the beginning of each route or at each stop could be beneficial, it is particularly important at the end of a route to capture all potential items left behind as passengers disembark. Additionally, relying solely on reports of lost items does not proactively address the issue, as many passengers may not notice they’ve left something until they have already exited the bus.