Introduction to MiDAS

MiDAS Driver Awareness Assessment & Training Scheme

MiDAS 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 is designed to enhance minibus driving standards and promote the safer operation of minibuses, currently there are over 5,000 member organisations throughout the UK. (CTAUK)

Who is MiDAS aimed at?

MiDAS is applicable to any organisation that transports passengers by road, and member organisations range from small voluntary organisations operating one vehicle to local authorities operating large vehicle fleets. Many schools and other educational establishments are members and in its guidance to schools using minibuses, the Department for Education and Skills cites MiDAS training as good practice for all schools. Don't worry if you haven't got a vehicle, you can still join MiDAS and have anyone who will be driving for your organisation trained. (CTAUK)

What does MiDAS training include?

Under MiDAS, drivers attend an intensive classroom-based theory training session that looks at:

• Driving for Safety and Economy
• Drivers' legal responsibilities
• Passenger safety
• MIDAS MPV's
• Manual handling awareness
• Personal safety for drivers
• Collision and breakdown procedures

They also undertake an extensive, on-road assessment of their driving skills and a written, multiple-choice theory assessment before being awarded a certificate. Drivers of accessible vehicles undertake further training in the skills and knowledge they require to safely use an accessible vehicle and they must successfully complete a practical skills assessment before being issued with their certificate

The Objectives of MiDAS are that minibus drivers will;

• Be assessed to ensure their driving skills are of a acceptable standard
• Be given help where necessary to improve their minibus driving skills
• Be aware of the legal, practical & safety issues surrounding minibus driving
• Be trained in the safe use of accessible minibuses where necessary
• Receive a certificate which is accepted by other MiDAS members.

Potential benefits of MiDAS;

• Enhanced passenger safety
• Improved passenger comfort
• Increase driver confidence
• Enhancement of the operating organisations image
• Generally an overall better image for minibuses and their drivers.

Please ensure that your organisation and all drivers comply with following prior to attending the course;

• Drivers must be at least 21 years of age, unless they hold a passenger carrying vehicle (PCV) licence
• Drivers must hold a full (not provisional) current driving licence
• Drivers who passed their driving test on or after 1st January 1997 must comply with the following

The minibus is used for social purposes by a non commercial body
The driver is aged 21 years or over
The driver has held a full clean licence for at least two years
The driver is providing his or her services on a voluntary basis
The vehicle has a maximum weight not exceeding 3.5 tonnes excluding an specialist equipment for the carriage of disabled people or 4.25 tonnes including specialist equipment
No trailer is being towed