Abuse Prevention and Maltreatment Updates

⚠️ COMPLIANCE WARNING: INSTRUCTIONAL THEORY ONLY

This course provides the 2-hour theoretical instruction required for the Abuse Prevention Refresher under MN Rule 8840.5910 Subpart 9.B. It is designed to reinforce the critical cognitive skills needed to protect vulnerable passengers from harm.

Requirement: To be fully compliant with state law (Subpart 11), the employer MUST conduct in-person proficiency testing to verify the driver’s comprehension of mandatory reporting procedures, professional boundaries, and appropriate situational responses using the provided “Abuse Prevention Proficiency Verification Form” (PDF included in Lesson 1).

This module covers standard industry equipment (including lifts and large buses) for full certification. If you are currently operating a minivan, please view this as “General Industry Knowledge” required for future vehicle types.

Course Description

The Abuse Prevention and Maltreatment Updates refresher course is designed for Special Transportation Service (STS) drivers and attendants to reinforce the critical knowledge required to protect passengers from harm and maintain regulatory compliance.

Across focused, interactive modules, learners will review how to recognize behavioral and environmental “red flags” during transport, maintain clear and professional boundaries, and respond calmly and supportively to passenger disclosures. The course places a strong emphasis on the legal responsibilities of a mandated reporter, providing clear guidance on proper documentation, reporting procedures, and timely communication with the appropriate authorities.

What You Will Learn:

• Sexual Abuse or Misconduct: Identifying inappropriate behaviors and maintaining strict professional boundaries in a transit environment.

• Protection of Vulnerable Adults: Recognizing the signs of physical, emotional, and financial abuse or neglect in elderly and disabled passengers.

• Maltreatment of Minors: Understanding the specific indicators of child abuse and neglect.

• Appropriate Response: Learning how to respond calmly, professionally, and supportively to a passenger who discloses abuse, neglect, maltreatment, or sexual misconduct.

• Mandated Reporting Requirements: Mastering the strict legal procedures, timelines, and documentation required for reporting suspected incidents of abuse, neglect, or misconduct to the proper authorities.

Compliance Information

This training fulfills the two hours of abuse prevention training refresher requirement outlined in Minnesota Administrative Rules 8840.5910 Subpart 9.B.

• Target Audience: Existing STS and NEMT Drivers and Attendants requiring their mandatory 3-year abuse prevention refresher training.

• Duration: 2 Hours (Mandatory Minimum).

• Certification: Theory Only (Requires Mandatory Employer In-Person Verification).