LEGISLATION
Page 31
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NEW DRIVERS' HOURS
• The new EEC drivers hours regulations come into force this Monday, September 29. Here are the major features of the new rules. * They apply to most vehicles over 3.5 tonnes (VW * The distinction between National and International rules is ended — the new rules apply to both * The distinction between artics over 20 tonnes GCW and other vehicles is ended * Daily driving limit goes up to nine hours (10 hours twice a week) * The weekly driving limit is ended; the fortnightly limit comes down from 92 hours to 90 hours * The rolling week is ended; the week runs from 00.00 Monday to 24.00 Sunday * The maximum driving period (whether continuous or accumulated) goes up to 41/2 hours, after which a break of 45 minutes must be taken * A weekly rest period of at least 45 hours must be taken after no more than six daily driving periods * Daily rest is 11 hours, which can be reduced to 9 hours not more than three times a week providing the reduction is made up in the following week.
Some of the tachograph regulations are also to change. The main point to note is that drivers must carry with them their used charts for the current week, and for the last day of the previous week.
The Department of Transport has produced two free pamphlets to provide guidance on the rules, one for HGVs and the other for PSVs. These are available from the 11 traffic area offices.
There will also be a guide to the new regulations in next week's CM.