A trucking company which works primarily in northern Saskatchewan is supporting proposed legislation on electronic log books.

On Tuesday, the federal government announced the beginning of a process to approve legislation which will require electronic log books for trucking companies nation-wide

Glen Burtell, branch manager for Northern Resource Trucking, says he is glad to see this process started.

“It will work both in favour for companies and drivers and for the safety records of everyone concerned,” he said.

Burtell also says the safety component of the electronic log books is vitally important.

“There is less chance for error and I just think that overall is a good standard that everyone will have to follow.”

Echoing Burtell’s comments is the Saskatchewan Trucking Association, which is welcoming the proposed legislation.

“This is about creating a level playing field for all companies in North America,” said STA Executive Director Susan Ewart in a media release. “This is the first step in addressing an antiquated system that can be easily violated.”

Tuesday’s proposed regulations would bring the Canadian trucking industry in line with regulations already in place in the United States.

The process is expected to take around two years to complete.

(PHOTO: courtesy Northern Resource Trucking at nrtlp.ca.)