J. J. KELLER’ S COMPLIANCE CORNER
J. J. KELLER’ S COMPLIANCE CORNER
device.
Though many AOBRDs today are equipped with GPS to automatically capture location information, they don’ t have to be; drivers can enter their location manually. If location codes are used, then the driver needs to carry a list of those codes and their meaning.
Rule status
Though AOBRDs are the standard today, they won’ t be for long. New rules are expected sometime next year to require next-gen e-log systems— to be called“ electronic logging devices”( ELDs)— in most commercial motor vehicles.
The rules are expected to apply to anyone subject to the federal hours-of-service and logging rules in 49 CFR Part 395, with possible exceptions for short-haul( 100 / 150-air-mile) drivers who normally do not have to log their hours. Though Congress wanted a final ELD rule to be completed this year, federal regulators will be lucky to issue a draft version before 2014( the proposed rule is currently slated for November this year). After the final version is published, perhaps next year, actual installation and use of ELDs is expected to be required within two years. So electronic logs are on the way for most motor carriers and it’ s not too early to start your search for a competent and reliable vendor. But in the meantime, make sure the logging systems you use today are compliant with current standards. ■
Daren Hansen is a Senior Editor – Transportation Safety for J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. Contact him at transporteditors @ jjkeller. com. Also be sure to check out J. J. Keller’ s website at jjkeller. com.
18 DrivingForceMag. com August 2013 • • •
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