Electronic logging devices (ELDs) will soon be mandatory for all federally regulated carriers. And before this law comes into effect in June of 2021, Transport Canada is requiring carriers with ELDs to get their devices tested and certified.
The certification process starts this month. All hardware, software and apps that are components of a carrier’s ELD system will need to be certified in order to be considered in compliance once the ELD mandate comes down next year. This differs from US law where ELD suppliers can self-certify their devices. According to Transport Canada, the Standards Council of Canada will be responsible for the actual certification of ELDS. Their aim is to make their decision within one month of a carrier submitting their application. Certifications will be valid for five years before the carrier has to re-apply.
As part of the certification process, devices will have to be tested using simulations, bench-tops, as well as in-vehicle tests. At least 25% of the test procedures will have to be completed within a one year time frame and no tests will be repeated in a four year cycle. The reasoning for this is to ensure that tests are both comprehensive and consistent regardless of who is performing them.
Getting your fleet ready for ELDs
The Canadian Trucking Alliance announced that it was pleased with the decision to certify ELDs. Electronic Logging Devices are meant to make it easier for truckers to record their Hours of Service but some devices from US suppliers can be manipulated which is not good for drivers or for the industry. By ensuring that ELDs are difficult if not impossible to manipulate, it not only ensures individual drivers are not tempted to cheat, but it helps prevent unscrupulous employers from coercing them to do so.
While it is generally agreed upon that levels of manipulation and non-compliance among Canadian drivers is low, the certification process serves to set a gold standard for Canadian drivers and carriers. Contact Trux Solutions for all your ELD needs. If you are looking to outfit your vehicles with best in class electronic logging devices, Trux Solutions is the answer. Contact us today to learn about our products and software and how they can benefit you and your drivers.
