Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/678630
Profile Story Electronic Logging Device Rules & Implementation Plan In March 2014, The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration proposed an electronic logging device (ELD) mandate that would replace standards for voluntary use of automatic onboard recording devices (AOBRD). With the passage of the final rule in December 2015, technology suppliers are now updating their current products to meet the requirements. What is an Electronic Logging Device (ELD)? The ELD will automatically record a driver's driving time and other aspects of the HOS records. This allows easier, more accurate HOS record-keeping. An ELD monitors a vehicle's engine to capture data on whether the engine is running, whether the vehicle is moving, miles driven and duration of engine operation. An ELD may be an iOS or Android smartphone or tablet or a dedicated unit purchased or leased from the program manufacturer. Using ELDs Drivers must have only one driver account with a carrier. The account must have a unique ID and password. Owner/Operators must have a single account as a driver plus a separate account for administrative duties. Once a vehicle hits 5 mph, the driver is automatically put into driving status. If the driver has not logged in to the ELD, the event is recorded as an unassigned driving event. The ELD has a feature that allows the driver to reject an unassigned driving event, an example would be if a mechanic drove the truck on a test run. Other features allow for status updates if the driver is loading or unloading, moving around the yard or in the sleeper berth. In the vehicle has not been in motion for 5 consecutive minutes, the ELD will prompt the driver to confirm or update driving status. The driver must respond within one minute or the device will switch to on-duty not driving status. Displaying and Transferring Data Beginning in December 2017, law-enforcement o'cers may request access to records of duty status (RODS). The ELD must be able to either transmit data using: • wireless web services and email • a thumb drive or flash drive or Bluetooth • an on-board printing device I have an automatic onboard recording device (AOBRD). Do I need an ELD? Eventually, yes. If the AOBRD was installed before the ELD compliance date, it is considered to be grandfathered in and can be used for 4 years from the date of publication of the final rule. An AOBRD that has been updated and meets the standards for an ELD, including certification registration on FMCSA's website, is not considered a grandfathered AOBRD. It is considered an ELD. Exceptions to the ELD Rule Drivers who are not required to keep records of duty status (RODS) are not required to use ELDs. In addition, the following drivers are not required to use ELDs, but must maintain paper logs when required: • Drivers who keep RODS no more than 8 days during any 30-day period. • Driveaway-towaway drivers (transporting an empty vehicle for sale, lease, or repair), provided that the vehicle driven is part of the shipment. • Drivers of vehicles manufactured before model year 2000. Excerpts for this article: "Ready for a Change: E-logs set to become ELDs" CCJ Feb 2016 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website www.fmcsa.dot.gov on on-duty not driving status. Displaying and Transferrin ELD Implementation Timeline 7