---

Idle engines may
violate pollution laws

---

Question: What is the rule for buses that are parked and running their engines? I work in Waikiki and every day, I see buses parked with their engines running for 10 to 15 minutes. The fumes are terrible. Why is this not monitored more? Is there any number to call for this type of complaint?

Answer: Call police at 911 with as much information as possible, including the name of the company, license number, location, time, etc., said Michelle Yu, spokeswoman for the Honolulu Police Department.

The drivers could be cited under the state Department of Health's administrative rules relating to pollution from motor vehicles, which do not allow parked buses to leave their engines running for more than three minutes.

Specifically, under Section 11-60.1-34(c): "No person shall cause, suffer, or allow any engine to be in operation while the motor vehicle is stationary at a loading zone, parking or servicing area, route terminal, or other off-street areas," with these exceptions:

» When the engine is being adjusted or repaired at a garage or similar place of repair.
» When ready-mix trucks, cranes, hoists, etc., or other equipment built onto the vehicle or equipment is in operation, requiring power take-off from the engine. However, there can be no visible discharge of smoke and the equipment has to be used for the purposes it was originally designed and intended. This doesn't apply to the operations of air-conditioning equipment or systems.
» During the loading or unloading of passengers, not to exceed three minutes.
» During the buildup of pressure at the startup and cooling down at the closing down of the engine for no more than three minutes.

We assume the drivers are still in the buses you cite.

Otherwise, under Hawaii Revised Statutes 291C-121, they could also be cited for leaving a motor vehicle unattended: "No person driving or in charge of a motor vehicle shall permit it to stand unattended without first stopping the engine, locking the ignition, removing the key from the ignition, effectively setting the brake thereon and, when standing upon any grade, turning the front wheels to the curb or side of the highway.

Cat lovers needed

An elderly Kailua woman is looking for volunteer "cat lovers" to help feed her many cats. She injured her hip and has a hard time getting around. If you can help, call Merilyn at 262-4439.

Mahalo

At about 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 4, I was at the Safeway Beretania parking lot putting my groceries away into my vehicle, when all of a sudden, I felt dizzy and fell to the ground. Before I knew it, there were numerous people who came to my aid. I can't remember their names except for a lady named Nicole. I thank them for staying with me until they were comfortable that I was well enough to leave on my own, which I was after resting for 10 minutes. It's further evidence of why I just love my Hawaii and all who live here. We are here to help anyone we can, which makes me so proud to be part of our Hawaii. -- S. Ruiz

|

---

---