The trucking industry plays a central role in the overall economy of Ontario as it is responsible for transporting products within and outside the province.
For new drivers, it is not just about learning how to operate a truck but also learning the laws and regulations governing roads to ensure the safety of all users.
This guide provides information on various aspects of Ontario’s trucking regulations.
Why Are Trucking Regulations Important?
Do you ever ask yourself why there are so many guidelines for truck drivers? The answer is that there are three goals; safety, fairness, and efficiency. Here in Ontario, safety concerns the drivers, the passengers, and even the pedestrians.
They also contribute to the conservation of the environment and the preservation of our roads. To you as a driver, these rules help you to avoid expensive fines, gain a good reputation, and obey the law.
Getting Licensed: The First Step
First thing, no one can operate a CMV on a highway without the proper license. When it comes to getting your license in Ontario, there are different requirements depending on the type of vehicle that you want to use. Let’s explore the two main licenses for truck drivers:
The AZ License: For CMV Combination Vehicles
If you want to drive a tractor-trailer or any large truck that has air brakes, you will require an AZ license. Here’s what you should know:
– Age and Eligibility: The applicant must be at least 18 years old and must have a G class license.
– Training: The Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) programme has to be passed first. It includes in truck road training, the safety methods that are used, air brakes and many more.
-Road Test: The last of them is the driving exam which examines your driving abilities, parking, and other actions.
The DZ License: For Smaller CMV Vehicles
Straight trucks, dump trucks, and others will require a DZ type of license to operate. MELT is not required in getting this license, but professional training can assist you in passing the exam.
Staying Awake and Alert: Hours of Service Rules
Driving truck can be very tiring, therefore, Ontario has set strict HOS (Hours of Service) regulations that will help in preventing fatigue-related crashes. These rules inform you how many hours you are allowed to drive and the maximum time allowable before having to take a break.
Key Points to Remember:
1. Daily Driving Limit: They include the fact that a driver cannot drive for more than 13 hours in a 24-hour cycle.
2. Workday Cap: Drive and other time cannot exceed 14 hours and your total workday is 14 hours.
3. Rest Periods: It is mandatory to have 10 hours of inactivity per day and 8 hours of such inactivity should be successive.
4. Weekly Limits: Depending on the cycle of work, you may not work more than 70 hours in 7 days or 120 hours in 14 days.
Actually, Ontario has specific requirements for ELDs, (Electronic Log Devices) which will make things easier for drivers. These devices self-record your hours eliminating manual log books that at times produce many mistakes.
Prepping Your Truck: Inspections and Maintenance
Everyone does not wish to be stuck in the middle of the highway. That is why daily vehicle examinations and regular care measures are mandatory in Ontario.
Daily Inspections
There are specific things that a driver must check on the vehicle before they can set off on the road in their truck. This includes:
– Brakes and Tires: Are they functioning and are the tools and equipment in proper working order?
– Lights and Signals: On what? Are they working fine?
– Load Security: Is your cargo secured so it will not fall from or dislodge?
– Fluid Levels: Is oil, coolant and other fluids replenished?
Maintenance Schedules
The CVOR program mandates that fleet operators must adhere to comprehensive maintenance practices for their commercial vehicles. Maintaining your truck reduces chances of an occurrence of an accident and you also escape hefty fines that come with the accidents.
Watching Your Weight: Load and Weight Restrictions
When trucks are overloaded, they exert too much pressure on roads leading to damages or even accidents. Under this circumstance, you will be charged highly. It is important to remember that the rules regarding weights and loads in Ontario are set for everyone’s safety.
Important Rules:
– Maximum Weight: To get the total weight for your truck, you have to consider the number of axles and the distance between the axles.
– Load Security: Secure the load in place using straps, chains or even tarpaulin on the sides of the load. Unsecured loads are not just hazardous; they are against the law.
Transporting Dangerous Goods: Handle with Care
If your job includes transportation of hazardous materials, then there are certain rules which must be followed for security reasons.
What You Need to Know:
– Certification: Pass a certain number of hours and a Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) training course.
– Documentation: It is always advisable to have proper documents, particularly the documents supporting the type of goods which you intend to transport.
– Safety Precautions: Choose the proper signage and ensure that every facility has the means to handle spills or accidents.
Staying Safe on the Road
Road safety is not just keeping to the rules of the road, it is avoiding dangerous situations and being aware of other road users. Here are some tips for staying safe:
– Mind Your Distance: It is important to maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and other vehicles in order to allow for breaking space.
– Check Blind Spots: Trucks have even bigger blind zones than other vehicles, so be sure before making a lane movement.
– Weather Warnings: Drive more defensively in rainy, snowy or foggy conditions to minimize risks by driving at a slower speed and maintaining a greater distance between vehicles.
– Stay Focused: Do not use your phone and look at the screen for instance, because this will distract you from the road.
What Happens If You Don’t Follow the Rules?
This shows that a violation of the regulations regarding the trucking industry can be very serious. Here’s what could happen:
– Fines: For such offenses like overloading, driving for many hours without a break.
– License Suspension: Reoffenders are in for more trouble of having their driving licenses revoked.
– Vehicle Impoundment: In the worst-case scenario, your truck could be taken off the road for several days, or even a week.
Quick Tips for Success as a New Driver
1. Get Proper Training: These are programs that offer you all the knowledge and information regarding the trucking industry.
2. Stay Updated: It’s always important to update yourself with legislation and regulation.
3. Use Technology: GPS and ELDs are useful in ensuring compliance.
4. Build Good Habits: Always check your vehicle and follow all the guidelines in safety.
5. Drive Defensively: It is always wise to anticipate other people’s actions on the road.
Conclusion
Trucking as a career is a great start, but with this comes certain responsibilities. Regulations are in place to be obeyed and followed and by knowing Ontario’s trucking regulations, the potential for a lasting and successful career awaits. Educate yourself, remain legal, and, most importantly, act safely.
FAQ
1. What license do I need to drive a large truck in Ontario?
For large trucks such as combination vehicle, a AZ license is required.
2. Are Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) mandatory for Ontario truck drivers?
Yes, you have to tie your Hours of Service to ELDs to have them tracked accurately.
3. How many hours can I drive in a day?
As per the rule, you can drive a maximum of 13 hours in a single 24 hour cycle.
4. What is TDG certification, and do I need it?
The Transport of Dangerous Goods (TDG) certification is required if you are Transporting
Dangerous Goods and make sure that you are transporting them in the correct way.
5. What are the consequences for not following trucking regulations?
Can include fines, suspended license, and, in more serious cases, having the vehicle
impounded.
