Truckers hauling what have been deemed essential supplies have been granted an exemption modifying hours of service regulations.

That would include truckers hauling things like medical supplies and equipment related to testing, diagnosis and treatment. As well, items such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants. Food, paper products and other groceries are on that list, as is fuel.

Drivers are being told to self-monitor and take appropriate rest if they feel fatigued and it is recommended that they take a break of 24 hours after 14 continuous days of work.

List of items exemption applies to:

medical supplies and equipment related to testing, diagnosis and treatment;

supplies and equipment necessary for community safety and sanitation, such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants;

food, paper products and other groceries for emergency restocking of distribution centres or stores;

raw materials, such as paper, plastic or alcohol, required for the manufacture of medical supplies, sanitation items and safe distribution of groceries;

fuel;

equipment, supplies and people to establish and manage temporary housing, quarantine and isolation facilities;

people designated by Federal, Provincial/Territorial or local authorities for medical, isolation, or quarantine purposes; and

people needed to provide other medical or emergency services.

The government recommends carriers still track their driver’s hours of operation.