When should the service brake (brake pedal) check be performed?

The service brake check should be performed when the bus is moving slowly forward. This procedure helps ensure that the brakes are functioning properly under real driving conditions. By conducting the check while the bus is in motion, the driver can more accurately assess the responsiveness and effectiveness of the brakes, making it easier to identify any potential issues that could affect safety on the road. Performing the brake check in this manner allows for immediate feedback regarding the braking system's performance, which is crucial for responding to any braking issues before they lead to a dangerous situation.

When the bus is parked, the brakes are not under the same stress they would be during operation, and thus the effectiveness cannot be fully assessed. Checking the brakes while idling does not provide the proper context for evaluating braking performance. Checking them while descending a hill is not ideal either, as the additional load and momentum can alter the feeling of the brakes, leading to a misleading assessment.