Electronic logging devices are here to stay. Canada will be enforcing this rule in 2023. All buses and trucks that operate between Canada's provinces and territories must have these devices. The devices are pretty important. They would help manage hours of service. The same would reduce the chances of having inaccurate reports of information.
The Origin of ELDs
According to CTV News, ELDs came about back in 2019. Ottawa came up with the rules that all must comply with the same in mid-June 2021. They allowed truckers a period until 2022 to make the devices a must-have. These devices will replace paper logbooks. It is more effective and safer. It will prevent drivers from staying behind wheels beyond time limits. They will have to stick to hours of service regulations.
ELD Enforcement
ELDs are mandatory from Jan 1. Kim Masland said that it is vital to have accurate logs. It helps reduce incidents caused by tired drivers. In Nova Scotia, drivers driving within the province will be fine without the device. Those who go beyond the province must have the device installed. Since 2019, Canadian drivers have used the devices while traveling in the US.
Chris McKee said that most of their 320 members are ready to welcome these changes. He said that this change had been long coming. Most of the members were already using ELDs. He made it clear that it was now time for everyone to comply. He also noted that the only change is how data is collected and nothing more.
It will be much more efficient for drivers to record driving time. The records will be accurate, made with ease and quickly, making it easier to track them. It will make the Hours-of-service rules easier to enforce. Drivers must operate within the required timelines and take as much rest as needed. It is not a limiting factor but a way to ensure that drivers are alert and steady on the roads for safety.
Mike Cassidy also stated that they have been using ELDs. The devices are activated once the trucks are turned on. The device monitors driving and idling times. It also tracks any exceptional braking. There won't be the need for manual logbooks anymore; therefore, there will be no errors. With technology, there comes efficiency.
