FMCSA considering ELD rule revisions

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration(FMCSA) has published a list of ELD mandate changes their goal is to improve the clarity of current regulations on the use of electronic logging devices (ELD’s) and address certain concerns about the technical specifications raised by industry stakeholders. FMCSA seeks industry comments on this public notice by November 15, 2022.

Some of the potential changes could improve ELD functionality and its standards. This will eventually help industries choose the right ELD when shopping for a suitable product.

The potential changes are the followings;

  1. Applicability to Pre-2000 Engines
  2. Addressing ELD Malfunctions
  3. Removal Process
  4. Technical Specifications
  5. ELD Certification

 

ELD Certification

Unlike Canada’s ELD Certification process, FMCSA accepts a self-certification process for ELDs. What is self-certification?

In the U.S., ELD’s are certified by service providers working with manufacturer’s hardware, not the FMCSA. In order to get certified, service providers are required to register their own ELD service, with compatible devices. They self test their ELD devices to meet all technical specifications detailed in the ELD Rules provided by the FMCSA. After they meet all requirements, verified ELDs can be self-certified and registered with FMCSA.

 

This process has been highly criticized. In Canada, an ELD must be certified by a third-party verification agency approved by the government. The third-party evaluates the service provider’s chosen ELD device, or devices, to determine whether they meet all regulatory requirements. In the list published by FMCSA, FMCSA is asking if it should establish a certification process for ELDs here in the U.S., and if so, what a certification process should consist of, and what would be the impact to the industry with existing services in operation today.

If the certification process is implemented, it’s going to be a big change in agency staff, state enforcement personnel, ELD providers, and the industry.

 

Removal process from FMCSA’s list of ELD-certified devices

There are several questions about the process for revoking non-compliant ELD from the list of registered self-certified ELDs.

  • If an ELD provider goes out of business and fails to self-revoke, should FMCSA be able to immediately remove the device from the registered ELD list?

 

  • The ELD rule requires ELD providers to keep their information current. However, the rule does not include a time restriction. Should FMCSA require ELD providers to update their listing within 30 calendar days of any change to their registration information found in section 5.1.1? Additionally, should ELD providers be required to confirm their information on an annual basis? Should an ELD provider’s ELD be removed from the FMCSA list if it fails to confirm or update its listing on an annual basis?

 

  • Providers must respond to the Agency’s written notice of required corrective action within 30 days to remain on the list. Additionally, the provider is given 60 days after the Agency provides a written modification to the notice of proposed removal or notice to affirm the proposed removal. Should FMCSA consider decreasing the 60-day period to 30 days, in order to more timely remove an ELD listing found with non-compliance issues that could adversely impact highway safety?

 

  • Should FMCSA consider any other factors related to a carrier’s continued use of a device that has been removed from the FMCSA list due to a provider’s status (out of business or failure to file an annual registration update)?

 

ELD Technical Specifications

FMCSA is requesting information on the impact of including the following data elements in every message.

  1. Actual odometer
  2. Actual engine hours
  3. Location description
  4. Geo-location
  5. VIN
  6. Power unit
  7. Shipping document number
  8. Trailer number
  9. Driver
  10. Co-driver if there was one
  11. Which driver was driving at the time if there was a co-driver

 

There is also the question about the frequency of intermediate recordings whether they should be more frequent like the quarter hour, half-hour, three-quarter hour, and hour to more efficiently monitor a vehicle over the course of a driver’s cycle.

This question could ease the industry’s administrative struggle. It says that FMCSA should consider allowing a driver to change his or her ELD configuration to exempt status to help reduce the administrative burden noted by the industry.

 

ELD Malfunctions

Currently, drivers are required to document their RODS to switch to paper logs when an ELD malfunctions. The drivers are also required to follow the motor carrier and ELD provider recommendations when a data diagnostic event is logged. Whenever an ELD fails to record a driver’s hours, enforcement personnel must be able to review the driver’s paper logs. In contrast, when an ELD device malfunctions, but continues to record the driver’s hours accurately, the driver should not switch to paper logs. FMCSA is asking for more clarification surrounding this topic as it can be very confusing.

 

ELDs and Pre-2000 Engines

Many vehicles with pre-2000 engines and most vehicles with rebuilt pre-2000 engines have engine control modules (ECMs) installed that could accommodate an ELD. FMCA is asking if FMCSA should re-evaluate or modify the applicability of the current ELD regulation for re-built or re-manufactured  pre-2000 engines.

See the full proposed rule from the FMCSA here.

 

Big change is coming

If these proposed rules are implemented, it will be a massive change for the industry, especially the proposed rule regarding ELD certification. Applying a stringent ELD certification process like Canada could avoid potential violations of ELD compliance and ELD replacement.

Astreon has a partnership with fully certified ELD service providers in Canada and the USA, such as Apollo ELD, brought to you by Astreon. They are an industry-leading ELD provider that is driver-friendly and well recognized in the USA and Canada.  They have also already gone through stringent certification in Canada, and are well prepared if this becomes necessary in the USA.

In addition to certification, leverage our ELD solutions to provide continuity and risk mitigation for your business with HOS, IFTA reports, Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports, Engine Diagnostics, and many more powerful features.

Visit our ELD page to learn more.

Contact us today!

Tel: +1 (888) 647-4730
Email: sales@astreon.com

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Canada ELD Mandate Update: No ELD penalties until June 2022 – CCMTA

The Canada ELD (Electronic Logging Devices) Mandate will go into effect this week, June 12 but with a “progressive enforcement period. Jurisdictions confirmed that they would delay implementing penalties until next year, June 12, 2022 to elevate education and awareness of the implementation of ELD considering the unprecedented challenges caused by COVID-19 pandemic.

The Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators said in a statement that “Jurisdictions plan to support the mandate through a period of progressive enforcement without penalties, including elevated education and awareness, until June 12, 2022.” This period will give industry sufficient time to install certified ELD(Electronic Logging Devices) without penalty until June 12, 2022. However, early implementation measures will be benefits for you to educate your drivers and increase compliance awareness.

However, province and territorial are still responsible for the enforcement, so it is advised that you are aware of provincial or territorial regulations and requirements.

Jurisdictional website or contacts by province are following;

Procuring ELD

Any ELDs you use must be certified devices approved by Transport Canada. Unlike the U.S., Canadian regulations require third-party testing and certification of all ELDs to ensure they comply with federal rules regarding the use of the devices. Approved devices can be found here: https://tc.canada.ca/en/road-transportation/electronic-logging-devices.

 

Astreon

Astreon ELD is a fully certified ELD solution by federal and state regulations as well as Canadian and Mexican regulations. Our solution enables carriers to be fully compliant with the mandate while staying adaptable with client needs and requests. This is the easy-to-use, fully functional ELD solution for your business.

For more information about ELD, visit our ELD page.

Are you ready for the Canadian ELD mandate?

For more information about ELD, visit our ELD page.

Contact us today for more information, pricing, and specific case studies.

Tel: +1 (800) 647-4730

Email: sales@astreon.com

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5 Easy Steps to prepare you for the Canadian ELD Mandate

If you are Canadian logistics company, you might be aware that the Canadian ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate will come into effect on June 12, 2021. Some might think it’s too early to start preparing the Canadian ELD mandate now. This article will help you understand why you need to start today.

In this blog, we dive into the Canadian ELD mandate rules and 5 easy steps to prepare for the Canadian ELD mandate.

Check our blog about the USA ELD mandate and HOS regulation changes.

What is the Canadian ELD Mandate?

Electronic logging device (ELD) is used to electronically keep a driver’s Record of Duty Status (RODS) and all drivers are required to use an ELD to document their compliance with HOS rules.

On April 11, 2019, the CCMTA published the formal Canadian ELD rule. ELD Mandate in Canada comes into effect on June 21, 2021. The Canadian ELD standard is very similar to the USA based FMCSA that came into effect in December 2017. The biggest difference is third party certification which ensures all ELD providers are compliant, their service works and meets all criteria.
 

An ELD is a hardware device which connects to the truck’s engine control module (ECM). It enables you to track HOS (hours of service) compliance, which is mandated for both drivers and trucking companies to track driving hours, and off-duty time, to increase safety and keep drivers safe.

All trucking companies need to transition from paper logs to electronic logs that will record data related to the vehicle, and driver activity, so you can monitor all the data with any internet connected device, such as mobile devices, and tablets.

The following is the Canadian ELD mandate effective date;

Canadian ELD mandate effective date

How it works?

ELD is based on a smartphone app which connects to a Bluetooth-enabled CANbus reader, or a GPS device, and accepts RPM, odometer, VIN and other data directly from the truck’s on-board computer.

The ELD app permanently displays the remaining time of “on-duty” and “driving” status, so that drivers are always in full control, ensuring compliance. Drivers quickly generate their electronic logbook right on the mobile device to display in case of a roadside inspection.

Office workers who manage compliance can then get access to the HOS web app and monitor all drivers’ actual statuses. Easily allowing the back office to clearly see if anybody is out of compliance or close to violating the rules and take proactive and preventive measures.

What are the benefits of implementing ELD?

Using ELDs brings your business huge benefits. It helps drivers increase safety and your business saves time and money. It enables you to utilize resources effectively and optimize scheduling with powerful tools. Fully compliant ELD solutions are simple, easy to use, and provide excellent back office Management tools.

Why ELD? Other than compliance and mandate?

  • Increases safety
    • Reduced vehicle accidents
  • Reduces operating costs
  • Saves time
    • Put hours back in your employee’s day
  • Eliminates human error
  • Proactive central management
  • Excellent back office management services
    • Eliminate paperwork

Here is a video explaining an ELD and its benefits provided by CTA(Canadian Trucking Alliance).

5 steps: How to prepare yourself for the Canadian ELD mandate

5 Simple Getting Started Steps – Help implementing ELD in your Fleet

1. Research & Review

Researching new rules is critically important to comprehend the changes and prepare to adapt yourself to the new rules.

Check materials provided to you by CCMTA and Transport Canada

2. Don’t wait, find your ELD provider today

It’s never too early to prepare for the upcoming Canadian ELD. Geoff Wood, CTA’s senior vice-president also encourages carriers to implement ELDs as soon as possible.

Astreon ELD is a fully certified ELD solution published on the FMCSA website under “Apollo ELD”. Our solution enables carriers to be fully compliant with the mandate while staying adaptable with client needs and requests. This is the easy to use, fully functional ELD solution for your business.

3. Start with a small group of drivers

Training your staff in advance is advantageous to make ELD rules work efficiently in your workplace.

Start slowly and get your driver’s used to digital logging.

4. Roll out ELD across your entire Fleet

It takes time getting driver’s used to Electronic Logging.  Don’t wait for the mandate and avoid growing pains that may cost your business thousands of dollars down the road

5. ELD’s save money, it’s proven

Monitor data provided by Electronic Logging and understand how an ELD helps your business become more profitable.

Are you ready for the Canadian ELD mandate?

For more information about ELD, visit our ELD page.

Contact us today for more information, pricing, and specific case studies.

Tel: +1 (800) 647-4730

Email: sales@astreon.com

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FMCSA released Educational tool for HOS (ETHOS)

The last week, we introduced that new HOS regulation had been published and 4 key changes to HOS regulations. Even though there are only 4 major differences, there might be many employers or drivers who have difficulty in understanding new rules. For those of them living in USA, here is great news.

FMCSA released Educational tool for Hour of service (ETHOS) and they offer updates and current information about HOS that went into effect on September 29, 2020 on their website.

HOS tool

Source: FMCSA screenshot

The tool helps carriers and drivers better understand the HOS regulations. When drivers and carriers enter their duty statuses into the web-based log, potential violations of the following rules will be identified by ETHOS:

  • 11-hour driving limit (property) or 10-hour driving limit (passenger)
  • 14-hour driving window (property) or 15-hour on-duty limit (passenger)
  • 30-minute break (property)
  • Sleeper berth provision

 

FMCSA also offers a downloadable file about the pre-populated examples.

By leveraging those useful tool and documentations, you will be able to have clear vision about the HOS new regulation changes and apply it to your business immediately.

Hours of Service regulation changes

Hours of Service regulation changes

FMCSA’s Hours of Service regulation changes has been published and the following information provides guidance on the hours service rules that are applicable through September 28, 2020 and effects due to the changes. Starting from yesterday, the revised provisions of the HOS final rule, published on June 1, 2020, took effect at 12 a.m. eastern time on Sept. 29.

What changed?

The four key changes to HOS regulations are outlined below;

HOS ProvisionPast HOS RuleNew HOS RuleImpacts
CMV Short-Haul ExemptionDrivers using the short-haul exception may not be on-duty more than 23 hours and may not drive beyond a 100 air-mile radius.Extends the maximum duty period allowed under the short-haul exception to 14 hours and to 150 air miles.Improves safety and flexibility by increasing the number of drivers able to take advantage of the short-haul exception.
Adverse Driving ConditionsA driver may drive for not more than 2 additional hours beyond the maximum time allowed. However, this does not currently extend the maximum “driving window”.Allows a driver to extend the maximum “driving window’ by up to 2 hours during adverse driving conditions.Improves safety and flexibility by allowing drivers time to park and wait out the adverse condition or to drive slowly through it – which has the potential to decrease crash risk.
30 Minute BreakIf more than 8 consecutive hours have passed since the last off-duty (or sleeper berth) period of at least half an hour, a driver must take an off-duty break of at least 30 minutes before driving.Required a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving time (instead of on-duty time) and allows on-duty / not driving periods to qualify as breaks.Improves safety and flexibility for drivers by increasing on-duty / non-driving time by up to 30minutes – allowing drivers to reach their destination easier.
Split-Sleeper BerthA driver can use the sleeper berth for an 8/2 split-8 hours of rest that does not count against the 14-hour limit, and 2 hours of rest that does count against the 14-hour driving window.Modifies the sleeper –berth exception to allow drivers to split their required 10 hours off duty into two periods: an 8/2 split, and a 7/3 split-with neither period counting against the driver’s 14-hour driving window.Improves safety and flexibility for drivers by potentially increasing the use of sleeper berths because drivers using a berth have additional hours to complete 11 hours of driving.

 

HOS Final Rule Fact Sheets issued by FMCSA

What about ELD?

Electronic logging device (ELD) is used to electronically keep a driver’s Record of Duty Status (RODS) and all drivers are required to use an ELD to document their compliance with HOS rules.

 

In USA

The FMCSA’s final ELD rule was published in December 2015. Considering that today the mandate applies to over three million drivers on the road, it’s important that the trucking industry as a whole is up-to-speed on its ELD facts.

By December 2017, all CDL drivers required to keep a Record of Duty Status (RODS) must use an ELD to document their compliance with HOS rules. The new ELD rule adds certain technical and performance specifications that define exactly what the device must feature to enable professional truck drivers and commercial motor carriers to easily track Hours of Service (HOS) compliance.

 

In Canada

On April 11, 2019 the CCMTA published the formal Canadian ELD rule. ELD Mandate in Canada comes into effect on June 21, 2021. The Canadian ELD standard is very similar to the USA based FMCSA. The biggest difference is third party certification which ensures all ELD providers are compliant, their service works and meets all criteria.

What is the effective date?

In USA, it’s been already mandated since December 2019. However, in Canada, ELD mandate will be rolled out on June 2021.

ELD mandate timeline

How it works

ELD is based on a smartphone app which connects to the Bluetooth-enabled CANbus reader or a GPS device and accepts RPM, odometer, VIN and other data directly from the truck on-board computer.

The ELD app permanently displays the remaining time of “on-duty” and “driving” status, so that drivers can always be in full control and ensure compliance. Drivers can quickly generate electronic logbook right on the mobile device and display in case of a roadside inspection.

Office workers who Manage compliance can then get access to the HOS web app and monitor all drivers’ actual statuses. Easily allowing the back office to clearly see if anybody is out of compliance or close to violating the rules and take appropriate measures.

 

ELD Benefits

  • Increases safety
    • Reduced vehicle accidents
  • Reduces Costs
  • Saves time
    • Put hours back in your employee’s day
  • Eliminate human error
  • Proactive central management

ELD Solutions

It’s never too early to prepare for the upcoming Canadian ELD (Electronic logging device) mandate which will take effect in June 2021.
Take the worry out of ELD Management. Astreon’s fully compliant ELD solutions are simple, easy to use, and provide excellent back office Management tools. Your ELD headache goes away with Astreon.
Astreon ELD is a fully certified ELD solution published on FMCSA website under “Apollo ELD”. Our solution enables carriers to be fully compliant with the mandate while staying adaptable with client needs and requests. This is the easy to use, fully functional ELD solution for your business.
For more information about ELD, visit our ELD page.

Contact us today for more information, pricing, and specific case studies.

Tel: +1 (800) 647-4730

Email: sales@astreon.com

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