The BranVan service implemented the use of a new form at the start of the spring 2011 semester that must be completed by every driver before the start of his or her shift. Drivers must now arrive a few minutes early to inspect the van and fill out a form before his or her shift begins, detailing any damages already present on the interior or exterior of the vehicle, according to Abraham Berin '11, head coordinator of operations for the Escort Safety Service, a division of Public Safety.This form, which was developed and implemented by Berin along with Head Coordinator of Maintenance Nana Owusu-Sarpong '12, was designed to keep the transportation vehicles in better condition and ensure that drivers are held accountable for any type of damage to the vans that might occur during their shift. In addition, if it is successful, it will also help avoid placing wrongful blame on student drivers.

"It is really just a strategy to avoid damage and to ensure the vans remain in good shape. It really protects [the drivers] in a way. If we notice damage, and the driver honestly did not do it, we need some type of way to demonstrate that," said Berin in an interview with the Justice.

The new form asks drivers to document such things as pre-existing vehicle damage, the amount of gas in the van, mileage and cleanliness. Berin stated that there were not any incidents that led directly to the creation of the form, and it is simply an effort to improve the BranVan system.

"This is fairly normal protocol for responsible organizations [that] employ drivers who are responsible for their vehicles," said Berin.

Berin said that there are already policies in place regarding mechanical issues to guarantee safety, which includes, but is not limited to, daily inspections of each vehicle in the Escort fleet. The implementation of this new policy focuses mainly on cosmetic issues, and Berin stated that driver feedback has been positive thus far.

"From my perspective, the employees have reacted positively. This is because these forms will keep the Escort Safety Service management updated on the condition of the vans in real time. As a result, we will be able to address any cosmetic issues faster," said Berin.

Berin also mentioned the gradual replacement of older vans, which have center-facing seats with newer vans that have forward-facing seats as another change in the BranVan service. According to Berin, the Escort Safety Service now owns two of these newer models, whereas 2 years ago all vans had center-facing seats. Berin said that although the vans do not fit more people than the older models, they are "more comfortable and safer" than the older models. One such van was purchased at the beginning of the fall 2010 semester.

Also, due to high demand for transportation, there is an extra Branvan running from campus to Waltham this semester, which runs from 7:15 to 11:15 p.m. during the school week. During this time slot there are now three vans running, in addition to the Crystal buses, which have extended their hours several times within the last few weeks due to poor weather conditions.