What is an ELD?
ELD stands for Electronic Logging Device.
How does an ELD work?
An ELD is used to automatically collect, supplement, and process a driver’s Record of Duty Status (RODS) and Hours of Service (HOS) data by combining driver inputs with information collected from the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM).
What is the Canadian ELD Mandate?
The Canadian ELD Mandate requires that drivers switch from using paper log books to computerized logs to track their driving hours. To add an extra layer of security, a third party will be verifying all ELD devices.
In Canada, the CCMTA (Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators) is currently developing its own set of regulations, which overlap significantly with the rules for our neighbors to the south, regulated by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). In the spirit of developing clearer cross-border relations, and due to the high demand for cross-border freight transport, our Canadian government is working with the US to develop regulations that work for both countries.
What’s the purpose of the Mandate?
The main purpose is to increase safety and accountability. The hope is that the mande will result in fewer injuries for drivers and everyday vehicles sharing the roads. ELDs eliminate illegal manipulation of driving hours as well as possible recording errors that you risk with pencil and paper.
In both Canada and the US, the mandate doesn’t change the HOS already in place, but instead monitors them closely to ensure drivers and companies are complying with the rules. In addition to safety, another benefit includes quicker roadside checks by MTO (Ministry of Transportation) Officers because the information stored in the ELD can be transferred straight to the officer during an inspection.
What if drivers don’t follow the Mandate?
Non-compliance will result in substantial fines and out-of-service orders for not only the driver but the company as well.
When does it take effect?
The Canadian ELD Mandate begun rolling out in June of this year. Full implementation is set for 2021. As of now, the Canadian mandate does not have a grandfather period. This means that trucks already using e-logs will need to ensure their devices are compliant by 2021 like everybody else. The process of updating isn’t as difficult as you may think. Some drivers may be able to update their existing e-log devices with simple software updates, instead of needing to replace the whole unit.
The earlier you start, the easier the transition to ELDs will be. Old school logging has been around for decades and learning a new method may be difficult for some. Luckily, if you’re up to speed on the US specifications, you will find many similarities in the Canadian rendition.
(photo via eldfacts.com)
Do you have more questions about the Canadian ELD Mandate? Contact us today and one of the experts at Radius will be more than happy to help!
