(1) Equipment requirements for all vehicles.

(a) Vehicles must comply with all applicable equipment requirements of Title 46 RCW.

(b) Vehicles must have exhaust systems that prevent exposure of passengers to the vehicle's emissions.

(c) Vehicles must have two external rear vision mirrors, one at each side of the cab. The mirrors must be firmly attached to the motor vehicle at a point where the driver is provided a view of the highway to the rear along both sides of the vehicle. An outside mirror may be placed only on the driver's side on vehicles in which the driver has a view to the rear by means of an interior mirror.

(d) Vehicles must be equipped with a steering system maintained to ensure that lash or preplay do not exceed those values set forth in 49 C.F.R., Parts 570.7 and 570.60 (Vehicle in Use Inspection Standards). Information about Title 49 C.F.R. regarding the version adopted and where to obtain it is set out in WAC 480-62-999.

(e) Vehicles must have a heating system that will maintain an ambient temperature of at least fifty-five degrees in passenger areas.

(f) Vehicles must have at least three red-burning fusees, three red portable emergency reflectors, or at least two red cloth flags suitable for warning the motoring public in an emergency. The driver must ensure that such equipment is in the vehicle and is maintained in good condition. Any devices that may create a spark or open flame must be carried in a separate compartment or a closed metal container provided for that purpose.

(g) Prior to operating a vehicle, the driver must determine whether such equipment is in the vehicle and is maintained in good condition.

(h) Any devices that may create a spark or open flame must be carried in a separate compartment or a closed metal container provided for that purpose.

(i) Vehicles must have a two and one-half pound dry chemical fire extinguisher or its equivalent, properly filled and located where it is readily accessible for use. The extinguisher must allow visual determination of the state of its charge at all times. The extinguishing agent must be nontoxic and noncorrosive. The fire extinguisher must be suitable for attachment to the motor vehicle, bear the label of approval by the Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., and be kept in good working condition at all times.

(j) Vehicles must have a first-aid kit located where it is readily accessible. The kit must contain all of the items specified in ANSI Z308.1-2009, Minimum Requirements for Workplace First Aid Kits. Additionally, the kit must contain gloves capable of preventing exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Items used from first-aid kits must be replaced before the next shift, and kits must be checked for compliance with this rule if the seal on the kit is broken. Information about ANSI Z308.1-2009 regarding the version adopted and where to obtain it is set out in WAC 480-62-999.

(2) Equipment requirements for specified vehicles.

(a) Coupling devices used on a vehicle equipped with retractable flange wheels for operation on railroad tracks must be substantial and made of metal. The devices must be equipped with safety chains or straps of sufficient strength to prevent separation in the event of accidental uncoupling.

(b) A passenger compartment separate from the cab of the vehicle must be made of metal and be fastened directly to the frame of the vehicle. The compartment must have an interior lining sufficient to absorb condensation, and padded seats and backrests firmly secured in place. The floor of the compartment must be constructed to bear the weight of all cargo and passengers. The floor must not have unnecessary openings, and it must be constructed to prevent the entry of noxious fumes or permeation with flammable materials. The compartment must have a curtain of nonpermeable material of sufficient weight and size to close off the rear opening and a tailgate that must be closed whenever the vehicle is in motion. If the bottom of the entrance to the passenger compartment is more than three feet six inches above ground level, the vehicle must have permanent or temporary steps designed for the safe boarding and discharge of passengers.

(c) Communication between a cab and a separated passenger compartment must be provided by means of a light or audible device mounted in the cab of the vehicle that may be activated by a passenger in the rear compartment.

(d) On vehicles designed to transport nine or more passengers, an emergency exit must be placed at the end of the vehicle opposite the regular entrance. The exit must be at least six and one-half square feet in area, and the smallest dimension must be at least eighteen inches. The route to and from the emergency exit must be unobstructed at all times.