The ELD Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations:
Requires ELD use by commercial drivers who are required to prepare hours-of-service (HOS) records of duty status (RODS).Sets ELD performance and design standard, and requires ELDs to be certified and registered with FMCSA.
Establishes what supporting documents drivers and carriers are required to keep.
Prohibits harassment of drivers based on ELD data or connected technology (such as fleet management system).
Provides recourse for drivers who believe they have been harassed.
Three Add-Ons for the ELD Feature Checklist
#1 Instant Messaging
There is no requirement for having an instant messaging feature including with your ELD, but this feature would enable all parties to stay in direct communication during a route. Streamlined communication between drivers and dispatch aids in dissolving miscommunication and confusion. Similar features can be found in apps like the TruckLogics app.#2 Dash Camera
Not only does a dash camera protect individuals and companies against fraudulent claims, but it also can be used for education purposes in training processes for more effective coaching.
There are also a number of insurance carriers who recognize the benefits dash cameras have on the safety and reward forward-thinking companies with reduced subsidies and premiums.
#3 Safety Alerts
ELD Exemptions
Drivers who operate under the short-haul exceptions are able to continue using timecards, and those who use paper RODs less than 8 times over a 30-day span are exempt as well. The 30-day period is not restricted to a single month but does apply to any 30-day period.
Meeting ELD Compliance
A compliant ELD solution will provide:
- Separate accounts for administrators, both non-drivers and drivers.
- Integral Synchronization with the Electronic Control Module (ECM).
- Automatic recording of information such as; location, date, time, engine hours, vehicle miles, and driver identification.
Although there are basic compliance requirements for ELDs it is wise to make sure the selected device offers the use of cellular networks, USB, and even Bluetooth.