Editorial update
It’s official: Canada will require the use of electronic logging devices (ELDs) starting January 1, 2023. This latest and final extension will ensure that affected carriers have enough time to purchase and install ELDs.
“Based on updates from our government partners at CCMTA and provincial associations, it is our clear understanding all jurisdictions will be ready to start enforcement on January 1,” said Geoff Wood, senior vice president of policy for the Canadian Trucking Alliance. “But, if there’s unforeseen circumstances that lead to a jurisdiction not being ready to enforce, other jurisdictions that are ready and prepared will not be held back and will go forward. The industry has been well prepared for this rule for a long time and has waited long enough for enforcement. It’s time enforcement begins.”
The mandate, which will make the trucking industry more regulated in Canada, also applies to commercial buses and will require third-party certification of all ELDs.
The federal government of Canada has released a draft for its own version of the ELD mandate, one similar to the U.S. ELD mandate that became mandatory on December 18, 2017.
The electronic logging device mandate requires non-exempt commercial drivers to install compliant electronic logging devices or ELDs.
The draft version of Canada’s ELD rule is expected to be finalized within two years of the public commenting and review period. Canada’s Transport Minister Marc Garneau said, “This will make truck drivers less prone to fatigue. It will make our roads safer.”
Just as it’s an issue for U.S. drivers, driver fatigue is a serious problem for Canadian drivers, especially when they travel long distances.
The proposed Canadian regulation highlights the risks of fatigued driving.
“Driver fatigue is recognized in Canada and internationally as a critical risk factor associated with motor vehicle crashes. Fatigue in commercial drivers is especially important given that crashes involving large trucks and buses can cause more severe injuries and more frequent fatalities than private passenger vehicle crashes.”
Similarities between the two ELD mandates
Canada’s proposed ELD rule is very similar to the U.S. ELD mandate that became mandatory on December 18, 2017. Currently, Canada-based truckers traveling into the U.S. are already required to use an ELD. It’s another reason why truckers in Canada have been waiting for a Canadian ELD mandate.
The release of the ELD proposal is welcomed by truckers, carriers, and trucking groups. Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) President Stephen Laskowski also welcomed the release of the draft version of the ELD rule.
“ELDs will ensure optimum compliance with the hours-of-service regulation, reducing commercial vehicle collisions related to fatigue and cognitive driver distraction,” said Laskowski.
Laskowski, who also heads the Ontario Trucking Association (OTA), said the CTA would collaborate with provinces on a plan to roll out the ELDs.
Steven Del Duca, Ontario Minister of Transportation, pointed out that three years ago, the province of Ontario was the first in Canada to endorse the use of an electronic logging device publicly.
“I commend Transport Canada for taking this important step toward making these devices mandatory,” Del Duca said.
What’s next?
The Canadian government has come out with its draft version of the ELD mandate — get the updated detail in this Canadian ELD mandate guide.
While the proposal is expected to be finalized within two years, it would be prudent for Canadian fleets and owner-operators to start preparing for ELD transition today.
Canadian truckers who operate in the United States already have to use compliant electronic logging devices. ELDs have numerous benefits that help fleets simplify their operations, reduce costs, improve efficiency, and increase profits.
For a reliable ELD solution with powerful fleet management features, try Motive.
