Interpretation ID: aiam0919
Project Engineer
Blue Bird Body Company
Fort Valley
GA 31030;
Dear Mr. Milby: This is in response to your letter of October 30, 1972, in which yo raise a number of questions regarding Standard 217, Bus Window Retention and Release. I have numbered my answers to correspond with the numbering of your questions.; 1. You assume that when two latches requiring separate forc applications are used on a single exit, under S5.3.2 each latch mechanism may require forces less than or equal to the magnitudes specified in S5.3.2(a)(3) and (b)(3). Your assumption is correct.; 2. You state that the torque value 20 inch-pounds in S5.3.2(a)(3) i too low and suggest that it be raised to 225 inch-pounds. The problem to which you refer will be dealt with in an amendment to Standard 217 which is presently being prepared.; 3. You ask for a definition of the term reach distances used in S5.4 The term refers to the space envelopes (the shaded areas) in the Figures accompanying the standard. All movements required to release and open the emergency exits must occur within these space envelopes.; 4. You assume that the legibility requirements of S5.5.2 are to be me when the normal night time illumination is in the ON' position. This is correct.; 5. You ask for a clarification of Figures 1 and 2 to clarify th location of the bus wall in relation to the seat. The amendment currently being prepared will clarify the figures in a manner which should answer your question.; 6. You request a clarification of Figure 3A to indicate the floor an wall of an upright bus and the wall and roof of an overturned bus. The amendment currently being prepared will clarify the figures in a manner which should answer this question.; 7. You describe a horizontally hinged rear emergency window with tw latches at the bottom of the window spaced horizontally 53 3/8 inches apart. You ask if the 53 3/8 inch latch spacing is permitted if the exit you describe meets the requirements of Standard 217 in all other respects. The answer to your question is yes.; Sincerely, Richard B.Dyson, Assistant Chief Counsel