As technology strides forward, so should our precautions. Sleeper coaches have improved greatly throughout the years, you can read the full evolution here! But sometimes technological improvements can lead to more dangers. We’re here to share how sleeper bus safety has progressed throughout time.
In The Early Days
Back in the swinging 60s and 70s, sleeper buses began to change the face of music tours, marking a significant shift in how bands travelled. These were the days of simplicity and functionality, where the primary goal was to provide artists with a space to rest between gigs.
Originally, these buses were standard coaches spruced up with bunks and basic amenities. The idea was straightforward: create a practical, cost-effective alternative to hotel hopping for bands on tour.
Safety features during this era were, admittedly, quite basic. Think rudimentary seat belts and standard-issue emergency exits. The focus on things like reinforced structures or fire safety systems was still a few chords away.
The 1980’s
Ah, the 80s – a time of big hair and even bigger changes for sleeper buses. This era saw the introduction of fire-resistant materials in bus construction, a significant leap towards addressing safety concerns, especially considering these vehicles were homes on wheels for weeks on end.
The 1990’s
As we rolled into the 90s, safety took centre stage. Regulations tightened, leading to a game-changing mandate: seat belts in every seat of sleeper buses.
This change was crucial, particularly because sleeper buses were often on the road for lengthy time periods. These stricter regulations became necessary to keep passengers safe on board.
The 2000’S
As we entered the 2000s, the sleeper bus industry experienced a technological leap. In the early 2000s, GPS technology, which had been steadily improving in accuracy, became a standard feature in most band tour buses. This technology enabled better route planning, for safer travel. This also significantly improved emergency service responses. In the rare event of any mishaps or incidents, help could be dispatched with pinpoint accuracy and speed. It wasn’t just about getting to the next gig anymore; it was about ensuring everyone got there safely, every single time.
In 2002, the EU introduced stringent regulations that required all new buses, including sleeper coaches used by bands, to be equipped with advanced braking systems. This mandate was aimed at enhancing road safety by ensuring that large vehicles like sleeper buses had the most effective and responsive braking capabilities possible.
By the mid-2000s, the inside of a sleeper bus was looking pretty advanced. Enhanced fire suppression systems came into play and emergency exits that were not just safer but also quicker to access.
Specialised Training
Enhanced driver training programs became as standard as a drummer in a rock band, focusing specifically on the unique challenges associated with operating sleeper buses. These programs often covered long-distance driving techniques, comprehensive vehicle maintenance knowledge, and emergency response skills. The aim was to equip drivers with the expertise needed to handle the rigours of the road and respond effectively to any incidents.
Current Day
Fast forward to today, and the safety landscape of sleeper buses continues to evolve. Modern sleeper coaches are kitted out with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These systems, which include features like lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking, represent the latest in vehicular safety technology. They not only assist the driver in maintaining control and awareness but also add an additional layer of safety through automation and alerts.
Here at MM Band Services, we’re passionately committed to staying at the forefront of these technological advances. Our ethos is simple: provide every artist with a safe, reliable home away from home. We believe that when the worries of the road are taken care of, artists can truly focus on what they do best – igniting stages and bringing music to life.
So, whether it’s ensuring our sleeper buses meet the latest safety standards or equipping our drivers with specialised skills, we’re dedicated to making every tour not just a journey, but a memorable and secure experience.
Check out our sleeper buses here, or get in touch for tour requirements.
