Why must emergency exits be specifically inspected before every trip?

Emergency exits — typically rear doors, side exits, roof hatches, and sometimes pushout windows — must be inspected to confirm they open from the inside, that operating instructions are visible to passengers, and that the alarm (if equipped) functions. A stuck or sealed-shut emergency exit has cost lives in bus and motorcoach incidents. Manufacturers sometimes seal exits temporarily for repairs; the seal must be removed before passenger service. Required exits per vehicle vary by capacity and design, but the inspection rule is universal: every emergency exit must be ready to use on every trip. If an exit cannot be made functional, the vehicle should not carry passengers.