propective heavy vehicle driver

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OBLIGATIONS OFHEAVY VEHICLE USERS

COORDINATORric Morasse, Socit de lassurance automobile du Qubec

CONTRIBUTORSSocit de lassurance automobile du Qubec

Marie-Andre Bdard

Paul Gobeil

ric LambertLyse Pelletier

Linda Thriault

Contrle routier Qubec

Isabelle Drapeau

Ministre des Transports du Qubec

Denis Bdard

Commission des transports du Qubec

Sylvie Lgar

Guy Mailhot

Translation Coordination

Donya Gulak

PUBLISHED BYDirection des communications

Socit de lassurance automobile du QubecCase postale 19600, succursale Terminus333, boulevard Jean-LesageQubec (Qubec) G1K 8J6

Internet : www.saaq.gouv.qc.ca

Legal deposit 2011Bibliothque et Archives nationales du QubecISBN 978-2-550-60322-1

978-2-550-60321-4 (PDF)

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FOREWORD

This document is intended for all categories of heavy vehicle users and is

designed to familiarize them with the most important road safety rules andrequirements. It provides a simplified guide to driving regulations that willenable persons involved in hauling goods and carrying passengers to findquick answers to all their questions. For a legal interpretation, however, thereader should refer to the relevant statutes and regulations.

As used in this document, the term heavy vehicle users specifically means:

owners;

operators;

drivers;

transport service intermediaries; shippers;

applicant for services;

driver services providers.

This publication was produced by the Socit de lassurance automobile duQubec (SAAQ) in collaboration with Contrle routier Qubec, the Ministredes Transports du Qubec and the Commission des transports du Qubec.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

THE ACT RESPECTING OWNERS, OPERATORS

AND DRIVERS OF HEAVY VEHICLES 6Background and objectives 6Mechanisms implemented by the Act 7Which heavy vehicles are subject to the Act? 8Which persons are subject to the Act? 9

OBLIGATIONS OF PERSONS SUBJECT TO THE ACT 10Owners 10Operators 10Drivers 11

Transport service intermediaries 11Third parties 12

BEFORE OPERATING A VEHICLE ON THE HIGHWAY 13Registration of heavy vehicles 13Registration in the register of ownersand operators of heavy vehicles 14Bus transport 16Bulk trucking register 16

DRIVING A HEAVY VEHICLE 18Drivers licence 18Driving record 20Driving time and off-duty time 22Coping with fatigue 26

MECHANICAL CONDITION OF HEAVY VEHICLES 29Pre-trip inspection (PTI) 29Mandatory maintenance 32Mandatory periodic mechanical inspection (MI) 34Preventive maintenance program (PMP) 36

Programme dinspection et dentretien desvhicules automobiles lourds (PIEVAL or heavyvehicle inspection and maintenance program) 37

OPERATING HEAVY VEHICLES 40Road signs and traffic rules 40Vehicle load and size limits 42Securement of loads and baggage 45Special permits 49Dangerous substances 52

Shipping documents 55

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RECORD KEEPING 57Vehicle record 57Driver record 60

MONITORING COMPLIANCE 62Contrle routier Qubec 62Police forces 64

MONITORING CONDUCT 65Conduct Review Policy for Heavy Vehicle Owners and Operators 65Conduct Review Policy for Heavy Vehicle Drivers 70Excellence Program for Heavy Vehicle Drivers 72Interventions by the Commission des transports du Qubec 74

QUBEC GOVERNMENT AGENCIES 77Commission des transports du Qubec 77Ministre du Dveloppement durable,de lEnvironnement et des Parcs 78Ministre des Transports 79Revenu Qubec 80Socit de lassurance automobile du Qubecand Contrle routier Qubec 81

APPENDICESAppendix 1: Vehicles subject to certain requirements 83Appendix 2: Classes of drivers licences 84Appendix 3: Sample maintenance sheets and sample brake

and tire measurement register 87Appendix 4: Sample daily log 96Appendix 5: Sample detailed register 97Appendix 6: Sample short register 98Appendix 7: Information Concerning the Drivers Record 99Appendix 8: Monitoring of Heavy Vehicle Driver Conduct 101Appendix 9: Conduct Record of a Heavy Vehicle Owner and Operator 103Appendix 10: Pre-trip inspection report 109Appendix 11: Sample forms 110Appendix 12: SAAQ service centres 117Appendix 13: Inspection stations of Contrle routier Qubec 118Appendix 14: Contrle routier Qubec services 121

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THE ACT RESPECTING OWNERS, OPERATORS

AND DRIVERS OF HEAVY VEHICLES

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVESHighway transport of goods and passengers is a key sector of our economy,generating more than 100,000 direct jobs. In Qubec, more than half of allgoods hauled are carried by truck, and people travel by bus some 500 milliontimes each year.

What sets the transport industry from others apart is the fact that its fieldof operation is the public highway system, and it shares its work spacewith all road users. This requires implementation of effective measures toensure that users can share the highways safely. The size and weight of

heavy vehicles, the great distances they have to travel, and the variety ofgoods they haul are all factors that increase the risk of heavy vehicles beinginvolved in accidents and make for more serious accidents when they dooccur. In Qubec, from 2000 to 2005, heavy vehicles represented 3% of allregistered vehicles on the highways, but were involved in 12% of allaccidents and in 20% of all fatal accidents.

This is why, in addition to the safety rules that apply to all road users, thereare a number of rules under the Highway Safety Codespecifically targetingheavy vehicle users. Failure to comply with any of these rules is an offenceunder the Code, for which fines may be imposed.

In addition to these rules, the Qubec government has adopted the Actrespecting owners, operators and drivers of heavy vehicles. This Act isdesigned to identify unsafe conduct and to ensure that measures are takenas rapidly as possible to modify such conduct, thereby enhancing road safetyand protecting the integrity of the highway network. The Act introduces nonew road safety rules. What it does is implement procedures for identifyingheavy vehicle owners, operators and drivers that appear to exhibit unsafeconduct. We can then intervene by contacting the heavy vehicle user therebyidentified in order to correct the problem. The Act also sets up a system ofsafety ratings applicable to highway transport businesses that haul goodsand carry passengers.

All the other Canadian provinces and territories have set up similar systemsfor monitoring the conduct of heavy vehicle users. Such systems help toharmonize regulations throughout Canada.

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MECHANISMS IMPLEMENTED BY THE ACTThe Act sets up three mechanisms for monitoring the conduct of heavyvehicle owners and operators (HVOOs)1. There is also a mechanism formonitoring the conduct of drivers. Responsibility for applying these

mechanisms is assigned to the Commission des transports du Qubec andthe Socit de lassurance automobile du Qubec (SAAQ). They aredescribed below.

Mechanism for entering the industry (applied by the Commission)

In virtually all cases, a person must first register in the Registre despropritaires et des exploitants de vhicules lourds (i.e., the register ofowners and operators of heavy vehicles) before being authorized to operatea heavy vehicle on public highways. The Commission then assigns theregistrant a register identification number (RIN) and a safety rating.

Registration is the first stage in the process. The Commission then notifiesthe SAAQ of each new registrant. For more information about registration,refer to Section 3.

Mechanism for monitoring HVOOs and for assessing their conduct(applied by the SAAQ)

When the SAAQ receives notification that a HVOO has registered with theCommission, it opens a record in that persons name. All offences, accidentsand other events are recorded there. This is the means by which the SAAQmonitors the conduct of each HVOO.*

The SAAQ has adopted specific rules for monitoring and assessing theconduct of heavy vehicle owners, operators and drivers. These rules aredescribed in the SAAQs conduct review policies for HVOOs and heavyvehicule drivers. The SAAQ intervenes in a series of gradually escalatingsteps. If a HVOO appears to exhibit unsafe conduct, the SAAQ begins bysending an information letter. If the situation continues to deteriorate and ifevents continue to occur or grow more serious, the HVOO or driver isinformed of that fact and the matter is referred to the Commission.

For a detailed presentation of the conduct review policies for HVOOs anddrivers, refer to Section 9.

* Drivers do not have to register with the Commission. However, a file foreach heavy vehicle driver is created as soon as the SAAQ is informed ofa relevant event.

71. In this document, HVOO (HVOOs in the plural) applies equally to owners of heavy vehicles, operators

of heavy vehicles, and owner-operators of heavy vehicles (i.e., persons who simultaneously fulfil both

roles). The expressions heavy vehicle owner and heavy vehicle operator are used wherever anobligation applies to only one or the other.


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Mechanism for correction and for imposing penalties (applied by theCommission)

In addition to its administrative functions, the Commission serves as aquasi-judicial body. It has the authority to maintain or modify the safety

rating of a heavy vehicle owner or operator.When a case is referred to the Commission, its first task is to review therecord. If it determines that there is in fact a problem of unsafe conduct, theHVOO is called to a hearing. On completion of this procedure, theCommission may modify the safety rating assigned and may impose anymeasure intended to correct the HVOOs conduct. For more information oninterventions by the Commission, refer to Section 9.

Mechanisms for correction and for imposing penalties in respect ofdrivers (applied by the SAAQ and the Commission)

Although operators are responsible for the conduct of the drivers theyemploy (as well as any drivers provided to them by a third party such as adriver services provider), the Act respecting owners, operators and driversof heavy vehiclesalso provides mechanisms for monitoring and assessingthe conduct of the drivers themselves and for imposing penalties, wherenecessary.

Heavy vehicle drivers are not required to register with the Commission.However, for any driver who commits an offence or is involved in an accidentwhile driving a heavy vehicle, the SAAQ opens a record as soon as it receivesnotification of the event. The SAAQ is charged with adopting a conductreview policy for heavy vehicle drivers, which sets out the criteria for

assessing drivers conduct and provides guidelines for the SAAQsinterventions targeting drivers. The Commission, on the other hand, isauthorized to intervene with measures targeting the most dangerous driversand compel them to modify their conduct. For more information, refer toSection 9.

WHICH HEAVY VEHICLES ARE SUBJECT TO THE ACT?As defined by the Act respecting owners, operators and drivers of heavyvehicles, a heavy vehicle is a road vehicle or a combination of road vehicleswith a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 4,500 kg or more. The GVWRindicates the vehicle weight, including its maximum load capacity, accordingto the manufacturer's specifications.

The following vehicles, regardless of their net weight, are also consideredto be heavy vehicles:

buses and minibuses

tow trucks

vehicles hauling dangerous substances requiring a safety mark

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The following vehicles, regardless of their weight, are not subject to the Act:

tool vehicles

combinations of road vehicles composed of vehicles (motorized vehicle

and trailer) with a GVWR of less than 4,500 kg; road vehicles registered under a temporary registration certificate or

bearing dealer plates (X plates)

vehicles used by the holder of a taxi owners permit

farm machinery and farm trailers owned by a farmer

WHICH PERSONS ARE SUBJECT TO THE ACT?The Act makes a distinction between heavy vehicle owners and heavyvehicle operators. This is necessary because of situations where the ownerof a vehicle is not the same as the vehicles operator. Certain regulatoryprovisions apply to the owner (primarily those related to mechanicalmaintenance of vehicles) and other provisions apply to the operator.

The persons subject to the Act are owners, operators, drivers and transportservice intermediaries.

Owner

Any natural or legal person in whose name a heavy vehicle is registered(whether that person owns the vehicle or leases it for a period of one yearor longer) or any person who acquires such a vehicle by way of a lease.

OperatorAny natural or legal person that controls the operation of a heavy vehicle.The operator may either own or lease the vehicles so operated.

Driver

Any person who drives a heavy vehicle and holds a drivers licence issuedby the SAAQ.

Transport service intermediary

Any person or business remunerated for acting, directly or indirectly, as theintermediary in a transaction between third parties for the purpose of haulinggoods or carrying passengers by means of a heavy vehicle.

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OBLIGATIONS OF PERSONS SUBJECT TO

THE ACT

Specific obligations are imposed on each of the classes of persons subjectto the Act respecting owners, operators and drivers of heavy vehiclesor theHighway Safety Code.

These obligations are listed below, but are explained in greaterdetail in Sections 4 to 7.

OWNERSOwners must:

register in the register of owners and operators of heavy vehicles;

register their vehicles;

maintain their vehicles in good mechanical condition;

repair any mechanical defects brought to their attention;

comply with the maintenance programs;

keep on file the documents necessary for maintaining eachvehicle record;

have their vehicles submitted to periodic mechanicalinspection;

comply with the authorized vehicle size limits (excluding loads); not entrust control of their vehicles to anyone other than an

operator registered in the Commissions register of ownersand operators of heavy vehicles;

comply with all other obligations related to vehicleownership.

OPERATORSOperators must:

register in the register of owners and operators of heavyvehicles;

make sure that

- each driver holds a valid drivers licence,

- each driver is a well-qualified, safe driver,

- each vehicle undergoes a pre-trip inspection,

- all standards for vehicle use are respected (this refers par-ticularly to vehicle load and size limits, driving time andoff-duty time, standards for securing loads, transport of

dangerous substances, special permits, etc.),

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2.

Commercial or professional transport

includes for-hire transport services

(goods or passengers), own-use trans-

port services (e.g. a business that carries

its own employees or hauls products it

manufactures or markets), equipment

transport (cranes, well drillers, etc.), pub-

lic utilities (cable, telephone, electricity,

etc.), service companies (plumbers, elec-

tricians, etc.) and towing services.

Owners do not always operate their

vehicles. For example, a heavy vehicle

rental company owns its vehicles, but

in most cases it does not operate them.


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- all rules for the carrying of passengers are respected,

- all documents necessary for maintaining the driver records of thedrivers employed by the operator are kept on file,

- the Regulation respecting the requirements for bills ofladingis respected, if it applies,

- the Regulation respecting the requirements applicableto shipping documents, leasing contracts and

contracts for servicesis respected, if it applies.

DRIVERSDrivers must comply with the provisions of the HighwaySafety Code and the regulations covering the followingsubjects:

- driving time and off-duty time for heavy vehicle drivers;- pre-trip inspection;

- vehicle load and size limits;

- standards for securing loads;

- transport of dangerous substances;

- special permits.

TRANSPORT SERVICE INTERMEDIARIES

Transport service intermediaries must: register on the list of transport service intermediaries;

provide full and accurate information on transport needs;

comply with the authorized load limits for fully loadedvehicles;

comply with the Regulation respecting the requirementsfor bills of lading.

Transport service intermediaries may also be held responsible if they advise,encourage or induce another person to perform an act constituting anoffence under the Highway Safety Codeor other laws or regulations, or ifby any act or omission they aid another person to commit such an offence.

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For example, a travel agency migh

required to register on the list of trans

service intermediaries.

Only intermediaries registered on th

may offer their services as transport s

ice intermediaries in Qubec. Also,contract entered into with a trans

service intermediary that is not regist

or has not renewed its registration is a

matically void. The list of transport se

intermediaries can be consulted on

Commissions Web site (see Section

An operator leasing a heavy vehicl

less than a year must make sure

the leasing contract is kept on b

the vehicle.

An operator using a heavy vehicle loa

by a merchant must keep a docum

on board the vehicle indicating for

long it is loaned.


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THIRD PARTIESThird parties can have a major impact on road safety.Shippers, requisitioners, consignees and driver servicesproviders are all considered third parties and as such, they

are not required to register with the Commission.

The obligations of third parties vary depending on the role they play, andmay include:

complying with the authorized load limits for fully loaded vehicles;

providing full and accurate information on

- transport needs,

- the drivers licence and driving time and off-duty time of any driversthey provide, and

- any dangerous substances transported.Third parties may also be held responsible if they advise, encourage orinduce another person to perform an act constituting an offence under theHighway Safety Code or other laws or regulations, or if by any act oromission they aid another person to commit such an offence.

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Driver services providers (drivers

agencies) are one example of third

parties that can have a significant

impact on road safety.


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3. BEFORE OPERATING A VEHICLEON THE HIGHWAY

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

REGISTRATION OF HEAVY VEHICLESAn owner established in Qubec wishing to operate a heavy vehicle withinQubec must register the vehicle with the Socit de lassurance automobiledu Qubec and pay the applicable registration fees.

An owner established in Qubec wishing to operate a heavy vehicle in ajurisdiction other than Qubec must register the vehicle under the

International Registration Plan (IRP) and obtain any permits and stickersfrom Revenu Qubec authorizing the operation of a heavy vehicle in theother jurisdictions in North America under the International Fuel TaxAgreement (IFTA).

International Registration Plan (IRP)

Owners of heavy vehicles registered in Qubec but operating in otherjurisdictions in North America are covered by the International RegistrationPlan (IRP). In Qubec, the IRP is administered by the SAAQ.

Under IRP, heavy vehicle owners are exempted from paying full registration

fees for each of the jurisdictions in which they operate. Instead they pay feesaccording to a proportional registration system based on the number of (ORpro rata) kilometres travelled in each jurisdiction participating in the IRP.

IRP covers:

Trucks and tractor trucks with a two-axle power unit with a gross vehicleweight above 11,793 kg (26,000 lbs);

Trucks and tractor trucks with a three-axle power unit regardless of grossvehicle weight;

Vehicle combinations designed, used and maintained for goods transportwith a gross weight above 11,793 kg (26,000 lbs);

Buses used to carry passengers for a fee.

Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight under 11,793 kg (26,000 lbs) and charterbuses are not required to register under IRP, although owners may chooseto do so.

For more information about IRP, contact the SAAQ. (Refer to Section 10 forcontact information.)


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Fuel tax

Under the International Fuel Tax Agreement(IFTA), any Qubec operator ofan eligible motorized vehicle operating outside Qubec must:

obtain from Revenu Qubec permits and stickers authorizing theoperation of such a vehicle in Qubec and the other provinces, territoriesand states participating in the Agreement; or

obtain a certificate for occasional trips before each such trip from all theprovinces, including Qubec, in which the operator plans to operate thevehicle.

As the next step, the operator must:

make sure that a copy of the permits is kept on board each eligible motorvehicle; and

affix the two stickers on the vehicles cab, one on each side.

For more information about the Fuel Tax Actor IFTA, contact Revenu Qubec.(Refer to Section 10 for contact information.)

REGISTRATION IN THE REGISTER OF OWNERS ANDOPERATORS OF HEAVY VEHICLES (REGISTRE DESPROPRITAIRES ET DES EXPLOITANTS DE VHICULESLOURDS)Any person wishing to operate a heavy vehicle in Qubec must be registered

in the register of the Commission des transports du Qubec.When the Commission registers a person or a business, it

assigns a register identification number (RIN) and asatisfactory safety rating, unless otherwise warranted.

All new heavy vehicle users carrying passengers areassessed for their level of knowledge before being

registered.

New owners and operators of heavy vehicles can register byInternet. They can also submit an application to the Commission, to one ofthe Commissions authorized agents (listed on the Commissions Web site)or at certain SAAQ service centres.

To register for the privilege of operating a heavy vehicle, an owner oroperator must pay the prescribed fees, provide the required information andcomply with all applicable legal requirements, which means that they must:

be registered in the Qubec enterprise register;

be registered as an employer with the Commission de la sant et de lascurit du travail (CSST);

hold a permit under IFTA, if so required;

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Safety ratings for heavy vehicle own-

ers and operators can be consulted on

the Web site of the Commission. (See

Section 10).


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have paid all fines related to their transport activities;

not have been convicted of a criminal act related to the use of a heavyvehicle within the preceding five years.

All persons in the Commissions register must also update their registration.Each year the Commission sends each owner and operator a copy of thedata in their respective files so that they can verify and update their file.Fees are charged for registration and annual updating.

Persons exempt from registering

The following persons are not required to register in the register of ownersand operators of heavy vehicles:

owners or operators who use a heavy vehicle required by an emergencyservice or in the event of a major or minor disaster;

persons renting a heavy vehicle for a consecutive period of less than15 days and operating the vehicle free of charge;

natural persons using a heavy vehicle exclusively for personal reasonsand not to conduct a business with an organized financial structure;

lessors;

owners and operators of a heavy vehicle registered in another Canadianjurisdiction (In such cases, however, owners or operators must beregistered in their home jurisdiction and must hold a safety fitnesscertificate issued by that jurisdiction);

owners or operators who use a heavy vehicle in a locality that is isolated

or not connected with the highway network (Refer to the official list ofisolated localities at the Web site of the Ministre des Transports duQubec at www.mtq.gouv.qc.ca).

Note:Owners and operators of heavy vehicles registered

outside Canada are required to register in the

Commissions register.

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For example, an American oper

must register with the Commis

before operating a heavy vehicl

Qubec.


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ONE-STOP ACCESS FOR CARRIERS (GUICHET UNIQUEDES TRANSPORTEURS, AVAILABLE IN FRENCH ONLY)To assist carriers, the Commission has introduced One-Stop accessreserved for carriers (Guichet unique des transporteurs) offering a full

range of services to heavy vehicle users, including:

registration in the Commissions register;

updating of registration in the Commissions register;

vehicle registration;

registration of a business with the Commission de la sant et de lascurit du travail (CSST);

registration of a business with the Qubec enterprise register;

issuing of IFTA licences and decals;

payment of fines owing to the Qubec government.These services are available on line, by mail or by fax, except for vehicleregistration, which is available only at the Commissions two service outlets.

One-Stop access can also be used to research information about carriers,such as their safety ratings or decisions concerning them.

BUS TRANSPORTHeavy vehicle owners and operators wishing to carry passengerson a paying basis must, in addition to registering in the register

of owners and operators of heavy vehicles, obtain a bustransport permit from the Commission des transports.

Bus transport permits are issued in the following classes:

urban transport

interurban transport

airport transport

tourist transport

student transportation

shuttle transport chartered transport

experimental transport

The Commission also issues bus leasing permits.

BULK TRUCKING REGISTERThe Commission maintains and updates the bulk trucking register for heavyvehicle operators involved in bulk trucking. Registration is mandatory for alloperators that wish to offer bulk trucking services under contract with Ministre

des Transports and various other public agencies. To remain registered, an

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In certain very specific cases where

passengers are carried under a contract

with a school board, a municipality, agrouping of municipalities, a public tran-

sit authority or an intermunicipal board,

carriers are not required to hold a bus

transport permit from the Commission

des transports.


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operator must also subscribe for bulk trucking services with the holder of abrokerage permit issued by the Commission and pay the required annual fees.

MOST FREQUENTLY COMMITTED OFFENCES

Operating a vehicle without beingregistered with the Commission S. 5 AOODHV* $500 to $1,500des transports

Operating a vehicle despite having beenbarred from doing so by the Commission S. 5 AOODHV $500 to $1,500des transports

* Act respecting owners, operators and drivers of heavy vehicles

Note :If an owner, operator or driver operates a heavy vehicle while subject

to a measure barring them from doing so, the vehicle may be seized for a

period of 30 days, under Section 39 of the Act.

SUGGESTIONS

Remember that in Qubec, heavy vehicle registration is based on the numberof axles, including trailers. Therefore, it is important when registering tomention the total number of axles for your vehicle combination.

When travelling in another Canadian jurisdiction, make sure you have proofof your registration in the Commissions register on board your vehicle. Youcan print this document directly from the Commissions Web site. (See

Section 10.)Using services offered via the Internet is much quicker and frequently mucheasier, especially if you need to update your registration in the register ofowners and operators of heavy vehicles.

LEGAL REFERENCES

Regulation respecting road vehicle registration

Act respecting owners, operators and drivers of heavy vehicles

DOCUMENTATIONIRP Registrants Guide

Socit de lassurance automobile du Qubec

Ny allez pas par 4 chemins(available in French only)Commission des transports du Qubec


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4. DRIVING A HEAVY VEHICLE

Driving a heavy vehicle is a very complex task, and drivers need adequate

preparation in order to perform their job properly. Even though the specialskills drivers learn during their initial training are refined by the experiencethey acquire over time, they also have to make sure they are up to date onthe laws and regulations that apply to driving heavy vehicles.

As professionals, heavy vehicle drivers owe it to themselves and to otherroad users to drive safely and responsibly. In order to react quickly and makethe right decision in a dangerous situation, they have to be in good conditionto drive. Most important of all, they must make sure their driving abilitiesare not impaired by fatigue, alcohol or drugs.


DRIVERS LICENCEIn Qubec a person needs only one drivers licence. Depending on the classof licence, a driver may be authorized to drive one or more classes of roadvehicles. Also, because of agreements between Qubec and otherjurisdictions, a licence issued by the Socit de lassurance automobile duQubec authorizes the licence holder to drive in Canada, the United Statesand Mexico.

The classes of licences required to drive various types of vehicles are

explained in Appendix 2.

Validity of a drivers licence

Operators must make sure that all their drivers have a valid drivers licenceof the appropriate class. The SAAQ provides three ways for operators tocheck the validity of a drivers licence and the status of the driver record.

Automated telephone service

Owners and operators can call 1 900 565-1212 to check the validity of adrivers licence and to make sure that drivers have the appropriate class of

licence for the type of vehicle used.

Checking the status of multiple drivers

Please consult our Web site (www.saaq.gouv.qc.ca) in the Drivers Licencesection to find out how to do so.


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Driver skills

The basic skills for driving a heavy vehicle, including skills required to carryout the pre-trip inspection, are validated by means of theoretical and practicalexaminations. Depending on the circumstances, heavy vehicle drivers must

also prove that they have the special knowledge and skills required for: driving a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission (M endorsement);

driving a vehicle equipped with air brakes (F endorsement);

driving a road train (T endorsement).

Skills required for driving a school bus

Persons wishing to drive a school bus must hold (and have in theirpossession) a certificate of competence for driving a school bus. To obtainthis certificate, a prospective school bus driver must first complete a 15-hour

training course which is offered at the transport training centres inCharlesbourg and Saint-Jrme. These are the only two centres authorizedto issue this certificate.

The certificate is valid for three years, after which time the driver mustcomplete another training course.

Drivers state of health

A person wishing to obtain a class 1, 2 or 3 drivers licence to drive certaintypes of heavy vehicles must meet certain conditions. Along with theapplication to add a class to a persons licence, proof must be provided thatthere are no health problems preventing the person from driving a vehicle.Such proof is given by submitting the results of a medical examinationperformed by a health-care professional. A medical examination is alsorequired when the licence holder reaches age 45, and then at age 55, 60 and65. After age 65, the examination must be repeated every two years.

Licence holders are required to report to the SAAQ any change ofcircumstances affecting the documents and information initially submittedin support of the application to obtain or renew a licence. They must do sowithin 30 days following the change.


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DRIVING RECORDDrivers may obtain a copy of their own driving record. Operators may alsoobtain a copy of the driving records of their drivers, both those employeddirectly and those supplied by a third party (see the sample driving record

in Appendix 7). Drivers and operators can also get a copy of heavy vehicledrivers records (see Appendix 8).

Application by a driver

Drivers may obtain a copy of their driving record free of charge:

at any of the SAAQs service centres; or

by mailing an application to the SAAQ.

Application by an operator

An operator must complete the form Driving Record Search and include acheque for the required fees.

In order to have the records sent directly to the drivers, the operator mustinclude a letter requesting the SAAQ to do so. However, if the records areto be sent directly to the operator, an authorization form from each drivermust be enclosed with the application. The form to be used for this purpose,Authorization for the Disclosure of a Driving Record by the Socit de

lassurance automobile du Qubec, is presented in Appendix 11.

SPECIAL OBLIGATION FOR DRIVERS(S. 519.7 OF THE HIGHWAY SAFETY CODE)Where a drivers licence or class of licence authorizing the driving of a heavyvehicle has been modified, suspended or cancelled, the driver mustimmediately inform the owner or operator. A driver who fails to do so isliable to a fine of $350 to $1,050.


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Driving a heavy vehicle with a licence

that has been suspended or cancelled S. 105 HSC* $300 to $3,000

Driving a heavy vehicle without having alicence of the appropriate class S. 65 HSC $300 to $600

Operator allowing a driver to drive a heavy

vehicle while the drivers licence is suspended

or cancelled or without the driver havingS. 106 HSC $300 to $3,000

a licence of the appropriate class

* Highway Safety Code

Note :In the case of any of the offences described above, the vehicle may

be seized for a period of 30 days under sections 209.1 and 209.2 of the

Highway Safety Code.

SUGGESTIONS

Never hire a new driver without first obtaining a copy of the drivers drivingrecord. That way, you will have a more detailed picture of the driversexperience and conduct.

An easy way to make sure that the drivers you employ still have a validlicence is to set up a regular licence verification process. By checking licencesseveral times a year, you can avoid numerous problems.

It may be useful to save driving records you receive and keep them in each

drivers file, in case you need to show that you have been monitoring theirdriving.

LEGAL REFERENCES

Regulation respecting licences, Highway Safety Code

DOCUMENTATION

Driving a Heavy Vehicle

Socit de lassuranceautomobile du Qubec

Prospective Heavy

Vehicle Driver

Socit de lassuranceautomobile du Qubec


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DRIVING TIME AND OFF-DUTY TIME

Drivers who are tired pose a hazard to their own safety and that of otherroad users. The rules governing driving time, on-duty time and off-duty timeensure that heavy vehicle drivers have a minimum number of hours of restbefore taking to the road. These rules also set limits on the number of hoursof driving time and on-duty time a driver can put in before stopping to rest.

Vehicles subject to driving time and off-duty time requirements

See the table in Appendix 1 for a list of the vehicles subject to driving timeand off-duty time requirements.

Some important definitions

Driving timeHours during which a driver is at the wheel of a heavy vehicle while theengine is running.

On-duty timePeriod of time beginning when a driver starts work and including thetime during which the driver is required to remain available at theworkplace. On-duty time ends when a driver stops work or is relievedof duties by the operator.

Off-duty timeAny period other than on-duty time.

General rules

Last 14 daysRegardless of which cycle is followed, in order to be allowed to drive, adriver must have taken at least 24 consecutive hours of off-duty timeduring the preceding 14 days.

Cycle chosenA driver may follow cycle 1 or cycle 2, and the cycle chosen must bespecified in the drivers daily log or in the company register.

- A driver who follows cycle 1 is not allowed to drive after accumulat-ing 70 hours of on-duty time over a period of 7 consecutive days.

- A driver who follows cycle 2 is not allowed to drive after accumulating:

120 hours of on-duty time over a period of 14 consecutive days;

70 hours of on-duty time without having taken 24 consecutive hoursof off-duty time.


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Changing cycles (reset to zero)To terminate a current cycle, begin a new cycle or switch from one cycleto another, a driver must:

- take at least 36 consecutive hours of off-duty time, if the driver was

following cycle 1;- take at least 72 consecutive hours of off-duty time, if the driver was

following cycle 2.

Work shiftA work shift is the time between two periods of at least 8 consecutivehours of off-duty time. Counting from the time a drivers work shiftbegins, the driver is not allowed to drive:

- after accumulating 13 hours of driving time;- after accumulating 14 hours of on-duty time; orafter 16 hours have elapsed.

DayA day is a period of 24 hours that begins at the time designated by theoperator.

- A driver must take at least 10 hours of off-duty time in a day.

At least 2 of those hours of off-duty time must be hours that are notincluded in the 8 consecutive hours of off-duty time required beforebeginning a work shift. The 2 hours may be split up into breaks ofnot less than 30 minutes each.

- Counting from the beginning of the day, a driver may not drive:

after accumulating 13 hours of driving time; orafter accumulating 14 hours of on-duty time.

Combining work shifts and daysDuring a cycle, the day always begins at the same hour. The startinghour for the day can only be changed after resetting the cycle to zero.However, the starting hour for a work shift may vary, and a work shiftmay overlap from one day to the next. However the two are combined,drivers must comply with all of the rules for both work shifts and days.

DAILY LOG

A driver must fill out a daily log indicating each change of duty status. Thestarting hour at the beginning of the log is also the starting hour for theday. Appendix 4 presents an example of a daily log that complies with alllegal requirements.

23


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Registers

All drivers must comply with the rules on driving time, on-duty time andoff-duty time. However, a driver who meets all of the following conditionsis not required to fill out a daily log:

The driver operates within a 160-km radius of the home terminal.

The driver returns to the home terminal each day to take at least8 consecutive hours of off-duty time.

The vehicle the driver is operating is not covered by a permit for anexemption respecting driving time and off-duty time.

The operator meets one of the following requirements:

1) The operator keeps a register (see Appendix 5 for a sample detailedregister) recording, for each day, every change in the drivers dutystatus, the cycle the driver is following, the starting time and end

time for each duty status, the total hours devoted to each duty sta-tus and, where applicable, the reasons for exceeding the limit on thenumber of hours or for deferring off-duty time.

OR

2) The operator keeps a register (see Appendix 6 for a sample shortregister) recording the date, the hour the day begins (if it is not atmidnight), the cycle the driver is following, the starting time and endtime of the drivers work shift, and the drivers total hours of on-dutytime during the day, provided all of the following conditions are met:

- The work shift begins and ends within the same day.

- The work shift lasts 13 hours or less.

- The length of the off-duty period before and after the work shift isat least 11 consecutive hours.

Documents to be kept on board the vehicle

Drivers must keep the following documents on board their vehicle at all times:

a copy of the daily logs for the preceding 14 days;

the daily log for the current day, completed up to the time of the lastchange of duty status;

all documents concerning the trip, such as gas receipts, shippingdocuments and delivery receipts.

Transfer of documents

Drivers must submit the original copy of the completed daily log, along withsupporting documents, to their home terminal within 20 days. Operatorsmust ensure that all such documents are transferred, within 30 days of beingreceived, to their place of business, where they must be kept on file.

24


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25

Retention period for documents

See Section 7 concerning the driving record.

MOST FREQUENTLY COMMITTED OFFENCESDriver failing to keep a daily log or

not recording all information S. 519.10 HSC* $350 to $1,050

Driver failing to comply with driving time,

off-duty time or on-duty time rules S. 519.8.1 HSC $350 to $1,050

Operator failing to make sure a driver

fills out the daily log S. 519.21.1 HSC $700 to $2,100

Operator failing to make sure a driver

complies with driving time, off-duty time S. 519.21.1 HSC $700 to $2,100

or on-duty time rules


Note : Committing one of these offences may result in the driver being

barred from driving for a period of up to 72 hours (ss. 519.8.1 and 519.12 of

the Highway Safety Code).

SUGGESTIONS

Remember, regulations alone are not enough to guard against problemsarising from driver fatigue.

Proper work scheduling and trip planning helps operators to meet theirobligations respecting driving time and off-duty time, and also enablesdrivers to better cope with fatigue.

Remember, if you are an owner or operator and you yourself drive a heavyvehicle, either full time or occasionally, you have to keep a driving recordfor yourself as well.

Even if you meet all the other conditions for keeping a company register,but you regularly operate beyond the 160-km radius from your hometerminal, it might be preferable for you to keep a daily log instead.


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26


COPING WITH FATIGUE

A serious concern in the transportation sector is the questionof how heavy vehicle drivers can cope with fatigue. It takesmore than just rules for driving time and off-duty time to guardagainst the hazards arising from driver fatigue and the threatit poses for all highway users.

Driver fatigue continues to be the third most importantcause of highway accidents in Qubec, after speeding

and alcohol-impaired driving. In the highway transport sector,fatigue is the most frequently cited cause for accidentsinvolving heavy vehicles, accounting for 31% of all cases.2

Aggravating factorsVarious external factors related to traffic conditions, road conditions, theweather, etc., affect your susceptibility to fatigue. Not to mention personalfactors, such as your state of health, your age, or the time of day when youfeel most alertin the morning or at night.

To properly evaluate your own susceptibility to fatigue, you should bear inmind the following five risk factors:

Time of dayThe risk of falling asleep at the wheel is greatest early in the afternoonbetween 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. and at night between 2:00 a.m. and

7:00 a.m. Periods of drowsiness occur eight times more frequently atnight than during the day. Why? Because the body follows a daily cyclethat includes down time when the metabolism slows, alertnessdeclines and fatigue sets in.

How long youve been awakeIn 40% of fatigue-related accidents, the driver had been awake for morethan 17 hours. After 17 waking hours, your physical and mentalperformance declines drastically and is worse than if you had a bloodalcohol level of 0.05 g/100 ml. Your reaction time may be up to twice asslow and your motor skills are impaired.

Sleep debtMost drivers involved in a fatigue-related accident had had less than 6hours of sleep the previous night. Regardless of your age, if you dontget enough sleep, you accumulate a sleep debt. A sleep debt of 5 hourswill affect you the same way as if you had a blood alcohol level of 0.05g/100 ml. The only way to deal with a sleep debt is to get enough sleep.

2. Source: National Transportation Safety Board, U.S.A., 1998.

From 2000 to 2005, an average of 149peo-

ple (including 18 truck drivers) were killed

each year in accidents involving a heavy

vehicle, which represents 20% of all

highway fatalities.


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27

Sleep disordersSleep disorders such as apnea, which affects many drivers who areoverweight and aged 45 or older, aggravates the effects of fatigue. Youshould consult your doctor if you often feel tired during the day or if you

have trouble sleeping at night. Alcohol, medications and drugs

The effects of fatigue are aggravated by consuming alcohol, certainmedications or other drugs.

Of course, any combination of the above-mentioned factors (such as a sleepdebt combined with alcohol consumption) will magnify your fatigue,resulting in that much greater a risk of your being involved in an accident.

Shared responsibilities

The employers responsibility is to provide employees with enough time to

recuperate from accumulated fatigue and carry out their daily activities.The employees responsibility is to use the time so provided in order torecuperate and come to work well rested.

SUGGESTIONS

At home:

Exercise regularly: even just 15 minutes of exercise a day is beneficial.

Watch your diet: eat low-fat meals, including at least five servings of

fruits and vegetables each day, and lower your intake of salt and sugar.

On the road:

Plan your trip so as to maximize sleep and rest periods.

You should preferably take a break every two hours and a nap whenevernecessary (in the early afternoon and especially at night).

Assess your level of fatigue and inform your dispatcher.

Avoid visual fatigue while driving: dim the dashboard lights to preventreflections in the windshield; clean your windshield and rearview mirrorsregularly.

PULL OVER IN AT A SAFE LOCATION TO REST AS SOONAS YOU FEEL THE FIRST SIGNS OF FATIGUE.


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LEGAL REFERENCES

Regulation respecting the hours of driving and rest of heavy vehicle drivers,Highway Safety Code

DOCUMENTATION

Checklist: Driving and Off-Duty Time for HeavyVehicle Drivers


Brochure: Driving and Off-Duty Time for Heavy Vehicle DriversSocit de lassurance automobile du Qubec

Driver Fatigue


Fatigue Management Guide


Straight Talk on Fatigue and Alertness

Canadian Trucking Association

Video: Fatigue on the RoadSocit de lassurance automobile du Qubec


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5. MECHANICAL CONDITIONOF HEAVY VEHICLES

A study has shown that mechanical defects are a contributing factor in 13.2%of all accidents involving a heavy vehicle. The SAAQ has set up severalmechanisms to ensure that the heavy vehicles operating on our highwaysare in good mechanical condition. For example, drivers must make a pre-trip inspection to check for mechanical problems before they take theirvehicle out on the highway. There is also a mandatory maintenancerequirement to ensure that owners have their vehicles undergo regularcheck-ups so that they can intervene before a mechanical problem arises.Finally, owners are required to bring their vehicles in at regular intervals fora complete mechanical inspection by an authorized agent of the SAAQ.


PRE-TRIP INSPECTION (PTI)The PTI is a visual and auditory check of certain of the vehicles accessible

components that must be done before each trip. In this way, any defectsdetected can be repaired in a timely manner.

The following components must be checked:

service brakes

parking brakes

steering mechanism

horn

windshield wipers (and washer)

rearview mirrors

PRE-TRIP

INSPECTION

(PTI)

MANDATORY

MAINTENANCE

MANDATORY

PERIODIC

MECHANICAL

INSPECTION

(MI)

ON-HIGHWAY

MONITORING OF

THE MECHANICAL

CONDITION

OF VEHICLES

PREVENTIVE

MAINTENANCE

PROGRAM (PEP)

PARTICIPATION

IS VOLUNTARY.


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emergency equipment

lights and signals

tires

wheels suspension

chassis frame

coupling mechanism (trailer hitch)

load securement systems

Vehicles subject to pre-trip inspection

See the table in Appendix 1 for a list of the vehicles subject to the pre-tripinspection requirement.

Pre-trip inspection report

A copy of the form for the pre-trip inspection report must be kept on boardthe vehicle at all times.

The pre-trip inspection report must be filled out for every trip, unless allthree of the following conditions are met:

- The pre-trip inspection is carried out by the person who will actuallybe driving the vehicle during the trip.

- The vehicle does not travel beyond a 160-km radius from its home

terminal.- No defect is detected either during the pre-trip inspection or during

the trip itself.

The following information must be recorded in the pre-trip inspection report:

- the date the pre-trip inspection was done;

- the vehicles licence plate number or the unit number shown on thevehicle registration certificate;

- any defects detected during the pre-trip inspection or during the current trip(If no defects are detected, that fact must be noted in the report);

- the drivers name and signature.The driver must immediately report any mechanical defect detected duringthe pre-trip inspection or during the trip.

30

A sample formfor the pre-trip

inspection

report is

presented in

Appendix 10.

If a major defect

is detected, the

vehicle may not

be driven until

it is repaired.

Any minor defectdetected must be

repaired within

48 hours.


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Driver failing to record observationsin the pre-trip inspection report S. 519.2 HSC* $350 to $1,050

Driver failing to do the pre-trip inspection S. 519.2 HSC $350 to $1,050Operator failing to place a copy of theform for the pre-trip inspection report S. 519.16 HSC $700 to $2,100on board the vehicle

Operator failing to ensure that the driverkeeps a copy of the form for the pre-trip S. 519.16 HSC $350 to $1,050inspection report on board the vehicle


SUGGESTIONSDrivers should be properly trained to carry out the pre-trip inspection. Inthis way, owners and operators can avoid sending heavy vehicles out onthe highway when they have mechanical defects that endanger road users,and they can also minimize delays caused by on-road breakdowns androadside inspections.

A copy of the form for the pre-trip inspection report should be kept on boardall of the operators heavy vehicles.

Invoices for repairs (original or photocopy) should be attached to the pre-trip inspection report in which the related defect was recorded, and both

documents should be filed in the vehicle record. This is an easy way to makesure that you comply with all legal requirements.

LEGAL REFERENCES

Regulation respecting safety standards for road vehicles, HighwaySafety Code

DOCUMENTATION

Inspect Before You Go


As this guide was

going to press, the

Regulation was in

the process of bein

revised in accorda

with Qubecs com

ment to implement

harmonized set of

regulations acrossCanada.


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32


MANDATORY MAINTENANCE

Owners must set up a system for regular planned inspections in order tomonitor the mechanical condition of the vehicle fleet and prevent mechanicaldefects from occurring. Mandatory maintenance includes all plannedoperations designed to maintain vehicles in good operating condition. Themaintenance can be done by the owner or by an independent businessestablishment chosen by the owner, but it remains the owners responsibilityto see that maintenance is done correctly and at the proper intervals.

Vehicles subject to mandatory maintenance

See the table in Appendix 1 for a list of the vehicles subject to the mandatorymaintenance requirement.

How often

Vehicle maintenance should be done once every 6 months. Under theRegulation respecting safety standards for road vehicles, the mandatoryperiodic mechanical inspection (performed by an authorized agent of theSAAQ) is no substitute for mandatory maintenance.

Mechanical components subject to mandatory maintenance

Mandatory maintenance is required for all mechanical components that mustbe in good condition, correctly adjusted and in proper working order in order

to ensure that the vehicle is safe to drive. The components to be inspectedare listed on mechanical inspection certificates (MICs) and on the samplemaintenance sheets presented in Appendix 3.

Maintenance sheets (see Appendix 3)

Maintenance sheets are an indispensible tool for any preventivemaintenance program. Using them guarantees a full and rigorous inspection.

The SAAQ provides sample maintenance sheets. These are intended asmodels and may be used as is. However, their use is not mandatory, andowners may modify them to suit their own particular needs, provided they

meet the requirements described above.The maintenance sheets in Appendix 3 (for buses, straight trucks, vehiclesunder 3,000 kg, and trailers) were designed to be used as part of a routineprocedure by the mechanic who inspects the vehicle with the sheet in handand then makes any necessary repairs. The routine follows the logical orderin which vehicle components are usually inspected: inside the vehicle,around the vehicle, under the hood, under the vehicle, the brakes, and thenany other inspection deemed necessary. Depending on the vehicles featuresand configuration, it may be necessary to change the order in which one ormore vehicle components are inspected, and the sample sheets will have


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33

to be adapted accordingly. For example, in the case of some vehicles, acomponent listed in the section around the vehicle may be more easilyaccessible under the vehicle or under the hood.

A sample register is also provided for recording brake and tire

measurements. Brake measurements are mandatory, but tire measurementsare optional. Recording brake and tire measurements separately from themaintenance sheet makes it possible to monitor wear from one inspectionto the next. In this way, any abnormal wear can be detected before abreakdown occurs.


Failing to keep equipment on a heavy

vehicle in good working order S. 213 HSC* $90 to $525

Owner failing to maintain a heavy vehicle

in good mechanical condition S. 519.15 HSC $700 to $2,100

Owner resumes operating a heavy vehicle

cited for a minor defect without first proving S. 531 HSC $350 to $1,050

to the SAAQ that repairs have been made


SUGGESTIONS

The rules for mandatory maintenance are the same, whether you own onevehicle or a fleet of 300 vehicles.

Close monitoring of heavy vehicle maintenance helps keep our highwayssafe, ensures that the owners vehicles are up to the task at hand, andminimizes services disruptions due to mechanical defects.

It is recommended that you name a person to be in charge of mandatorymaintenance and set up a servicing schedule for each vehicle.

Dont forget to file the maintenance sheets in the vehicle record onceservicing is completed.

Keep a separate record for each vehicle. In this way, you will be sure to haveon hand the documents you need to comply with all legal requirements.


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34

LEGAL REFERENCES

Regulation respecting safety standards for road vehicles, HighwaySafety Code

DOCUMENTATION

Wheel Loss Due to Faulty Bearings


Wheel Loss: A Risk No One Can Run!


Mechanical Inspection Guide



MANDATORY PERIODIC MECHANICAL INSPECTION (MI)Heavy vehicle owners are required to periodically check that their vehiclesare in good mechanical condition so as to reduce the risk of accidents due

to mechanical defects. This is why they have to have a completemechanical inspection carried out by a qualified mechanic at the businessestablishment of an authorized agent of the SAAQ. If all vehiclecomponents meet regulatory standards, the agent affixes an inspectionsticker to the vehicle. But if any mechanical defects are detected, the ownermust have them repaired in order to obtain a sticker. The Regulationrespecting safety standards for road vehicles specifies which vehiclecomponents are to be inspected and how serious each type of mechanicaldefect is considered to be.


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Vehicles subject to mandatory periodic mechanical inspectionand interval between inspections

See the table in Appendix 1 for a list of the vehicles subject to the mandatoryperiodic mechanical inspection requirement, with an indication of how often

each type of vehicle must be inspected.


Owner failing to submit a heavy vehicle

for mandatory mechanical inspection S. 523 HSC* $700 to $2,100


SUGGESTIONS

Ask the driver to verify the expiration date on the inspection sticker as a partof the pre-trip inspection. This is a good way to make sure that themechanical inspection is still valid.

Even though the SAAQ notifies the owner shortly before an inspection stickerexpires, its a good idea to keep track of your vehicles by setting up aservicing schedule for each vehicle. You can avoid numerous problems bydoing so.

LEGAL REFERENCES

Regulation respecting safety standards for road vehicles, Highway

Safety Code

DOCUMENTATION

Mechanical Inspection





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PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM (PMP)

An alternative to mandatory periodic mechanical inspection

The SAAQ is convinced that preventive maintenance has a positive impacton road safety. This is why the SAAQ offers heavy vehicles owners analternative to mandatory periodic mechanical inspection that allows themto set up their own maintenance program, subject to approval by the SAAQ.Under this option, owners no longer have to submit their vehicles tomandatory inspection, but of course they are still required to maintain theirvehicles in good running condition and they continue to be subject to allother legal requirements. For the sake of greater flexibility, the SAAQ allowsowners to do their own servicing or contract the work out to a third party,

but they are responsible for seeing that the work is done correctly and atthe proper intervals.

Participation in a preventive maintenance program (PMP) is entirelyvoluntary. Owners of vehicles subject to the inspection requirement are freeto set up such a program or to continue sending their vehicles for mandatoryperiodic mechanical inspection, as described in the preceding section.

For further information on the preventive maintenance program, contact theoffice of Contrle routier Qubec in your area.

SUGGESTIONS

Owners that do not have the necessary personnel to do their own servicingcan contract the work out to an establishment whose mechanics hold therequired competency card. In this way, all owners can sign up for thepreventive maintenance program and enjoy all the advantages it provides.


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37

LEGAL REFERENCES

Regulation respecting safety standards for road vehicles,Highway Safety Code

DOCUMENTATION

Wheel Loss Due to Faulty Bearings


Wheel Loss: A Risk No One Can Run!





PROGRAMME DINSPECTION ET DENTRETIEN DESVHICULES AUTOMOBILES LOURDS (PIEVAL OR HEAVYVEHICLE INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAM)Exhaust emissions from motor vehicles contain pollutants that can causelung and heart diseases and even certain types of cancer. Such pollutantsdisrupt the natural functioning of ecosystems and contribute to the formationof smog. Also, excessive fuel consumption increases the production ofgreenhouse gases. These are all good reasons for reducing exhaustemissions. In most cases, regular vehicle maintenance is all it takes tomaintain pollutant emissions at an acceptable level.


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To meet this challenge, the Ministre du Dveloppement durable, delEnvironnement et des Parcs has launched the Programme dinspection e

dentretien des vhicles automobiles lourds, or PIEVAL (i.e. the heavy vehiclinspection and maintenance program). The program is designed to ensure

that heavy vehicles operating on Qubecs highways comply with thstandards set by the Regulation respecting environmental standards fo

heavy vehicles.

Vehicles that are defective or inadequately maintained are easy to spoteither they emit thick black fumes or a strong smell of exhaust, or both

Under the Regulation, heavy vehicles that show signs of excess emissionwill be stopped by an officer of Contrle routier Qubec to have thei

exhaust emissions analysed at the exhaust pipe.

Standards for curbing emissions from diesel-powered heavy vehicles ar

based on the opacity of exhaust gases, i.e. the quantity of particles presenin the exhaust. A probe attached to an opacity meter is placed over thmouth of the exhaust pipe, and in just a few seconds it measures the opacit

level of the exhaust.

Maximum opacity permitted:

30% for vehicles manufactured in 1991 or later

40% for vehicles manufactured in 1990 or earlier

Hydrocarbon, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide concentrations iemissions from gasoline or gas-powered vehicles are measured using a 4

gas or 5-gas analyzer. Heavy vehicles are required to meet emissionstandards for hydrocarbons (HCs) and carbon monoxide (CO) that vary

depending on the vehicle model year.


For a violation of emissions standards, the owner of a heavy vehicle wi

initially be fined $100 to $200 if the owner is a natural person and $200 to

$400 if the owner is a legal person. The Ministre will also send a noticordering the owner to have the vehicle repaired and then re-inspected at a

authorized establishment within 30 days following issue of the notice inorder to prove that the vehicle complies with emissions standards.

Any owner who fails to have the vehicle repaired within the prescribeddeadline will be assessed a second fine of $750 to $1,500 (or double thos

amounts, if the owner is a legal person). For any repeat violation within two

years following a conviction, these fines will be doubled.


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SUGGESTIONS

Visible fumes in the exhaust are caused by a breakdown, faulty maintenance

or a misadjusted air or fuel intake valve. They may also result from improper

driving habits.Adjust the fuel pump according to the manufacturers recommendations.

Clean or replace injectors.

Make sure there is nothing blocking the air-intake system.

Check or adjust your emissions control device.

LEGAL REFERENCES

Regulation respecting environmental standards for heavy vehicles

DOCUMENTATION

Le Programme dinspection et dentretien

des vhicules automobiles lourds (PIEVAL)

(available in French only)

Ministre du Dveloppement durable,

de lEnvironnement et des Parcs


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6. OPERATING HEAVY VEHICLES


ROAD SIGNS AND TRAFFIC RULES

Road signs enable road users to adjust their driving to constantly changing

road conditions, but they also serve as a reminder of the traffic rules that

apply on Qubecs highways. Signs are used to give directions, post the

speed limit, indicate the road configuration up ahead, etc.

Traffic violationsespecially speedingare the most common type of

offence involving heavy vehicle drivers and operators. Speeding is an

extremely hazardous practice and the most frequent cause of accidents.

The Regulation respecting road signssets the rules governing road signs inQubec and applies to all vehicles operating on the highway network. Certain

road signs, however, specifically target heavy vehicles, and most signs of

this type show a truck outlined in black. Here are a few examples:

Mandatory route for certain classes of vehicles. This sign shows

drivers of the class of vehicle illustrated on the sign (in this case,

a truck) the route they must follow.

This sign indicates that drivers of trucks in transit must proceed

in the direction indicated by the arrow shown on the sign.

A vehicle is considered to be in transit when passing through

an area where no local deliveries are scheduled.

This sign indicates that the road is closed to trucks.

This sign indicates that the road is closed to trucks except for

local deliveries.

This sign indicates that trucks with a weight exceeding the load

limits prescribed by the Vehicle Load and Size Limits Regulationare barred from travelling on certain bridges or overpasses,

unless the driver is expressly authorized to do so by a special

permit issued under section 463 or 633 of the Highway Safety

Code. This sign also targets tool vehicles and equipment

transport vehicles.


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This sign indicates that there is a brake check area up ahead

where drivers of vehicles or combinations of vehicles with a

maximum gross vehicle weight of 3,000 kg or more must stop

(at a stop sign within the brake check area) and check their

brakes.

This sign indicates an inspection station where drivers of trucks,

tow trucks, equipment transport vehicles or tool vehicles may

be required to stop for inspection. Drivers are required to pull

over at an inspection station only when the lights on the sign

are flashing or when a peace officer signals for them to do so.

This sign indicates public roads and tunnels that are closed

to drivers of vehicles hauling dangerous substances subject

to section 11 of the Transportation of Dangerous Substances

Regulation.


Fine varies

SpeedingSs. 303.2, 299, based on

328, 329 HSC* the actualspeed observed.

Failing to obey traffic signs S. 310 HSC $100 to $525

Failing to stop at a stop sign S. 368 HSC $100 to $200

Failing to wear a seat belt S. 396 HSC $100 to $200


SUGGESTIONS

Operators can prevent accidents and many other problems by providing their

drivers with training in defensive driving. After all, operators are responsible

for seeing to it that their drivers have the necessary skills to operate a heavy

vehicle and drive in safe and conscientious manner.

Offences related directly to drivers on-road conduct, such as speeding orfailure to obey road signs, represent nearly one-third of all offences reported

in operators records. Such offences can thus have a strong impact on an

operators conduct record. You should check your record often to make sure

your drivers are obeying the traffic rules and road signs.

Likewise, setting up an in-house system for monitoring and managing driver

conduct will help you maintain a satisfactory safety rating. Such a policy

might involve, for example, requiring drivers who have committed an

offence to meet with their supervisor, as well as imposing progressively

more serious penalties on drivers if their on-road conduct does not improve.


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LEGAL REFERENCES

Regulation respecting road signs, Highway Safety Code

DOCUMENTATION

Drivers Handbook



VEHICLE LOAD AND SIZE LIMITS

The main purpose of the Vehicle Load and Size Limits Regulationis to ensure

the safety of road users and to protect roadways and bridges. The Regulation

defines upper limits on vehicle size, load for an axle class and maximum

gross weight for road vehicles travelling on public highways.

The most common techniques for determining authorized load and size

limits for heavy vehicles are described below. For fuller information, refer

to the Regulation or to the Vehicle Load and Size Limits Guide.

Load limits

Determining the axle load limit

The maximum load authorized for any axle class is the lowest of the

following three values:

the total capacity of all tires in the same axle class;

the axle load capacity (GAWR) for the front axle;

the load limit for the axle class, depending on the time of year (normal

or spring thaw).


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Determining the vehicle load limit

The maximum gross weight authorized for a road vehicle or combination

of road vehicles is the lower of the following two values:

the total of the maximum loads authorized for each axle class, dependingon the time of year (normal or spring thaw);

the maximum gross vehicle weight for the class of vehicle or

combination of vehicles.

Size limits

As a rule, the maximum size authorized for each class of vehicle (including

the load) is as follows:

Height Width

Length

Truck Bus

Combination of vehicles

Truck and trailer B train

Tractor and semitrailer Farm tractor and two trailers

* Maximum of 35% (including load) of the distance between the centre of the

single, double or triple axle and the centre of the kingpin.


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Trailers and semitrailers

Trailer with a dolly Trailer without a dolly

Semitrailer

All trailers and semitrailers 2.05 m wide or wider and weighing more than3,000 kg must have reflective strips.


Exceeding axle load limit S. 463 HSC* $150 to $450

Exceeding vehicle load limit S. 463 HSC$300 or more based on

actual weight observed

$175 or more based on

Outsized rear overhang S. 463 HSC actual length of the

overhang observed


SUGGESTIONS

Installing electronic scales on board your vehicles will help you avoid the

costs you might have to pay as a result of a roadside inspection. For

example, you may find it very costly if you have to dispatch a second vehicle

to unloading the first vehicle before it can be allowed back on the highway.

Make sure your drivers know the exact load limits for the vehicles they are

driving.


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LEGAL REFERENCES

Vehicle Load and Size Limits Regulation, Highway Safety Code

DOCUMENTATION

Vehicle Load and Size Limits Guide

Ministre des Transports

Information document about awareness of shared

responsibilities

Overloading of the Total Loaded Mass



SECUREMENT OF LOADS AND BAGGAGE

The purpose of the Cargo Securement Standards Regulation is to protect

the safety of road users and standardize the methods employed for securing

loads transported by road vehicles.

The Regulation defines standards for securement devices, determines their

minimum strength based on gross weight, and sets rules for how they are

to be used, depending on the type of goods being hauled.

Whatever the type of road vehicle, the load must be positioned, secured orcovered in such a way that is cannot:

shift or move about in or on the vehicle;

be dislodged or fall from the vehicle;

compromise the vehicles stability.


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General standards have been established for this purpose. Here are a few

examples:

The elements of the securement system must:

- be in proper working order;- be appropriate for the purpose they are used for;

- not have any knots or damaged or weakened components that will

adversely affect their performance;

- not have any cracks or cuts;

- be strong enough to restrain 50% or more of the weight of the cargo

they are used to secure;

- have a manufacturers label with regard to their load capacity rating;

- be designed and maintained so that they can be kept constantly ten-

sioned and will not release while in use.

The minimum number of tie-down straps (securement apparatuses) used

must be:

- one tie-down, if the article secured is not longer than 1.52 m and

weighs 500 kg or less;

- two tie-down straps, if the article secured is not longer than 1.52 m

and weighs more than 500 kg;

- two tie-down straps, if the article secured is longer than 1.52 m but

does not exceed 3.04 m, regardless of its weight;

- two tie-down straps for the first 3.04 metres and an additionaltie-down strap for each additional segment measuring 3.04 metres or

a fraction thereof, if the article secured is longer than 3.04 m.

Note:The required number of tie-down straps may be reduced if the article is

immobilized by a front-end structure, a bulkhead, a device used to prevent it

from shifting forward, or another article of cargo that is adequately secured.

Drivers must:

- make sure that the cargo does not:

interfere with the their ability to drive the vehicle safely,

hinder a person from freely exiting from the cab or drivers compart-

ment of the vehicle,

reduce the field of vision,

cover any lights;

- inspect the cargo and the cargo securement system

before driving the vehicle, and

not more than 80 km from the point where the cargo was loaded;

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- re-inspect the cargo and the cargo securement system at the earliest

of the following:

when there is a change of duty status for the driver,

when the vehicle has travelled for 3 hours, or when the vehicle has travelled 240 km.

The Cargo Securement Standards Regulation also sets specific securement

standards based on the type of cargo hauled, such as:

logs;

dressed lumber;

metal coils, paper rolls and concrete pipes;

intermodal containers and special containers;

vehicles;

boulders;

bulk cargo.

Buses (s. 519.8 of the Highway Safety Code)

In addition to complying with the standards of the Cargo Securement

Standards Regulation, bus drivers must distribute and secure freight, express

and baggage so as to ensure that:

drivers movements are unrestricted and they can properly operate the

vehicle;

passengers have unobstructed access to all exits;

passengers are protected against any injury that might be caused by

falling or shifting of articles carried in the vehicle.


Driving a vehicle with a load that is not

firmly secured so as to prevent it from S. 471 HSC* $350 to $1,050

being dislodged or falling from the vehicle

Allowing a driver to drive a vehicle with

a load that is not firmly secured so as toprevent it from being dislodged or falling

S. 471 HSC $700 to $2,100

from the vehicle



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SUGGESTIONS

The device used for tensioning any component of the securement system must

itself be firmly secured so as to prevent it from unlocking or coming loose.

Vehicles used must have the appropriate equipment for properly securingthe load.

Make sure that you have securement devices on hand and that they are in

good condition.

When purchasing tie-down straps, make sure that their working load limit

(WLL) is certified by the manufacturer.

It is mandatory to inspect the load, both before departure and en route, to

ensure that it is properly secured. Doing so is essential for your own safety

and that of other road users.

Proper inspection also helps to ensure that the goods being hauled remainundamaged throughout the trip.

LEGAL REFERENCES

Cargo Securement Standards Regulation, Highway Safety Code

DOCUMENTATION

National Safety Code for Motor Carriers Standard 10 Cargo Securement


Cargo Securement, Bulletin No. 02-11-06

dated November 13, 2006



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SPECIAL PERMITS

A special travel permit is required when a road vehicles size or load exceedsthe limits allowed by the Vehicle Load and Size Limits Regulation.

Regulation respecting special permits

The Regulation respecting special permitssets the rules that apply to any

vehicle manufactured as an outsized vehicle or any vehicle that is outsized

due to the fact that its load cannot be divided.

There are seven classes of special permits:

Class 1: Vehicle that is outsized due to width, height, length or front or

rear overhang

Class 2: Transport of prefabricated buildings

Class 3: Transport of swimming pools

Class 4: Tow trucks

Class 5: Overloaded transport

Class 6: Overloaded transport requiring an experts report from the


Class 7: Outsized transport requiring an experts report from the


There are two categories of permit, general permits and specific permits:

A general permit authorizes the permit holder to make trips with or without

having a specified route and over a period of no more than one year.

A specific permit authorizes the permit holder to make a trip with a

specified route, including the return trip along the same route, within a

maximum period of 7 consecutive days.

Special road train operating permit

Under the Special Road Train Operating Permits Regulation, a combination

of vehicles longer than 25 m formed by a tractor and two semitrailers may

be authorized to travel between May 1 and November 30.


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3. Applications for class 6 and 7 permits must be analysed by the Ministre des Transports before apermit can be issued.

The principal conditions that must be met for such a road train to operate

during this period are as follows:

The operator must hold a permit issued under the Special Road Train

Operating Permits Regulationand must have paid the applicable fees.

The road train must travel only on highways with divided lanes or the

approach roads to such highways.

A semitrailer may have a maximum length of 16.2 m.

The driver must have a minimum of 5 years of experience in driving

combinations of road vehicles and must hold a drivers licence with the

T endorsement.

A warning sign (TRAIN ROUTIER) must be attached to the rear of the

hindmost semitrailer.

The road train may not travel above 90 km/h.

The road train may not haul dangerous substances.

Special ministers permit

If justified by exceptional circumstances, the Minister of Transport may issue

a special permit authorizing travel by an outsized or overloaded vehicle. Such

permits are issued primarily to allow travel by experimental vehicles, for the

sake of harmonization between Qubec standards and those of other North

American jurisdictions, or as a transitional measure, allowing the industry

to adapt to a special situation.

How can you obtain a special permit?To obtain a class 1 to 7 special permit3 or a special road train operating

permit, you must apply at a service centre of the Socit de lassurance

automobile du Qubec. These service centres are listed in Appendix 12.

To obtain a special ministers permit, you must apply to the Minister of

Transport of Qubec. Contact information for the Minister is given in

Section 10 of this guide.


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Exceeding vehicle load limit or

axle load limit (holder of a special permit) S. 513 HSC* $150 or more

based on the actual weight observed

Failing to comply with a condition

or failure to display proper warning signsS. 513 HSC $175 to $2,100

Failing to hold a special permit,

where required to do soS. 464 HSC $175 to $525


SUGGESTIONS

Keep the original of the special permit on board the vehicle.

A special permit does not authorize travel on load-limited bridges andoverpasses, unless a condition is added to the permit authorizing such travel.

LEGAL REFERENCES

Regulation respecting special permits, Special Road Train Operating Permits

Regulation, Highway Safety Code

DOCUMENTATION

Simplified Guide to the Regulation Respecting Special Permits



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DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES

In Qubec, operations involving the transport of dangerous substances (i.e.handling, offering for transport, transport) are governed by the

Transportation of Dangerous Substances Regulation.

Under the Regulation, consignors (i.e. persons who supply dangerous

substances for transport) are responsible for:

training their employees;

affixing safety marks (labels, placards, UN number, signs, marks, panels);

properly filling out the required documents;

providing safety marks to the operator;

ensuring that goods are properly classified;

ensuring that the containers used comply with safety standards.

Before handling or transporting dangerous substances, operators must:

ensure that all drivers hold a training certificate;

ensure that safety marks are affixed to the containers;

check to see that the information recorded in the shipping document

matches the safety marks;

affix the safety marks to the vehicle (placards, UN number, signs, marks,

panels); ensure that the containers used comply with safety standards.

Training

Employers are responsible for ensuring that their employees are qualified

for the tasks they perform, whether those tasks involve handling, offering

for transport, or transporting dangerous substances.

On completion of training, the employer issues to the employee a training

certificate indicating:

the date on which the employee completed basic training; and

the areas in which the employee was trained.

The certificate is valid for three years. The employer must keep a copy of

the certificate for two years following its expiry date. Also, at the end of the

three-year period, the employer must ensure that the employee receives

supplemental training. Supplemental training is also necessary if the

applicable regulations are amended or if employees are required to handle

or transport any new type of materials they have not already worked with.

Drivers who change jobs must also receive appropriate training for their

new duties.


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