Transport Canada Updates HOS Regulations for Essential Freight for COVID-19

Transport Canada has released guidance similar to what the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) did last week as relief to truck drivers during COVID-19. Drivers who move essential freight between our provinces will be exempt from hours-of-service (HOS) requirements.

The primary difference between Transport Canada and the DOT release is that Canadian truck drivers have to make sure their Bill of Lading (BOL) states the load is for emergency relief. Carriers must also notify their province’s Hours-of-Service (HOS) director of their plan to operate under this emergency declaration while providing the vehicle and driver information as well. Carriers must keep detailed records of any activity exceeding the normal HOS regulations.

Example of essential freight includes medical supplies related to the diagnosis and treatment of the coronavirus, community safety items like hand sanitizer and gloves, and food or other goods required to restock empty shelves in stores and distribution warehouses. Note the exemption does NOT apply to mixed loads.

See the Canadian Trucking Alliance’s summary of the update here.