What is the ELD Mandate? And Are You Ready for it?

in

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) estimates that 3.1 million vehicles are impacted by the September 30th final electronic logging devices (ELD) mandate. The ruling requires fleets across the country to equip vehicles with devices used to electronically log Hours of Service (HOS). All affected vehicles are required to be equipped with ELD during the next two years, so it’s important to start preparing your company now.

The ELD mandate was put in place to replace the former rule requiring drivers to maintain paper logbooks for HOS compliance. Paper logs are a major burden to both drivers and their managers and is much less accurate than electronic logging. The new mandate is designed to make the roads safer for drivers and the public, reduce HOS violations, prevent drivers from falsifying data in their logbooks, and stop tired drivers from hitting the road.

Achieving ELD Mandate Compliance

Not sure if your drivers are required to comply with the ELD mandate? If they’re already required to follow HOS regulations — and most driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMA) are — they will need to conform.  Some of the current HOS requirements to help identify vehicles that will be subject to the new regulations include:

  • Buses used to transport nine or more passengers — including the driver — for a fee.
  • Buses that carry 16 or more passengers — including the driver — for no fee.
  • Vehicles that weigh at least 10,001 lbs.
  • Vehicles used to transport hazardous materials that require placards.

Industries subject to the mandate include construction, delivery, energy, food distribution, freight/goods transportation, passenger transportation and any other fleet using applicable CMVs in interstate commerce. To maintain compliance, fleets are required to equip vehicles with ELD and maintain a record of HOS logs for up to six months. Those with an integrated ELD solution will monitor and retain records of electronic logs to confirm HOS compliance and allow managers and drivers the opportunity to provide proof upon DOT inspections.

Searching for skilled professionals to add to your supply team? Partner with MAC Incorporated. Our niche-based recruiting and staffing firm specializes in the placement of engineering, maintenance, and operations management professionals.