ISO 17840-2:2019

Overview

ISO 17840-2:2019 specifies the content and layout of rescue sheets for buses, coaches and heavy commercial vehicles (per ISO 3833). The standard ensures rescue teams - both first and second responders - can quickly identify hazards, vehicle structure and key components after an incident. Rescue sheets can be provided in paper or electronic format and are designed for global usability and clarity.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Mandatory front page layout (Annex A): header, vehicle top and side views, pictogram legend and footer.
  • Header includes brand/logo, manufacturer and model, production years and perspective photos with optional alert framing for uncommon technologies.
  • Footer must show a unique document ID, version number, optional version date and page numbering.
• Pictograms and colour coding: uses standardized pictograms (from ISO 17840-3) and color principles (e.g., orange for high-voltage, yellow for low-voltage, light blue for hydrogen, red for triggered systems, sea green for high-strength zones). RGB codes are provided for digital consistency.
• Component identification: all components that pose a risk during rescue (high-voltage systems, gas tanks, occupant protection, pre-tensioned springs, etc.) must be shown. Transparency may be used to indicate components behind others.
• Propulsion energy information: propulsion type and specifics (e.g., battery chemistry such as Li‑ion/NiMH, voltage, or gas type like CNG/LNG/H2) should be stated, with further guidance in ISO 17840-4.
• Additional pages template (Annex B): follow Emergency Response Guide (ISO 17840-3) headings and color coding for condensed hazard details, coolant types and other known risks.
• Limitations: the standard does not cover vehicle/model identification via databases (license plate, VIN, e‑Call, QR codes) nor the operational rescue process itself.

Applications

• Rapid hazard assessment and decision support at crash scenes for safe extrication.
• Standardized rescue documentation for fleet operators, bus/body manufacturers and service networks.
• Integration into printed emergency kits, onboard digital systems or incident response platforms.
• Training and drills for emergency services using uniform rescue sheet templates.

Who should use this standard

• Vehicle manufacturers and OEMs (buses, coaches, heavy commercial vehicles)
• Emergency services: fire departments, EMS, rescue squads and second responders (tow/recovery)
• Fleet managers, vehicle bodybuilders, and standards organizations
• Developers of electronic vehicle information systems for emergency response

Related standards

• ISO 17840-1 - rescue sheet for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles
• ISO 17840-3 - Emergency response guide template and pictograms
• ISO 17840-4 - Propulsion energy identification

Keywords: ISO 17840-2, rescue sheet, buses, coaches, heavy commercial vehicles, first responders, second responders, vehicle rescue, pictograms, emergency response guide.