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One More Load: May-June 2015

The Alberta Sand and Gravel Association (ASGA) has a mission to represent the interests of Alberta sand and gravel operators on key industry related issues, proposed regulatory changes, and education of aggregate consumers. The Association also advocates for the environmentally responsible and orderly development of this valuable non-renewable natural resource.

 A proud initiative since 2005, the Alberta Sand and Gravel Association’s Truck Registry highlights the partnerships between aggregate producers, haulers, municipalities, and communities. In fact, the Registry is cited as the model for Alberta, and has been researched by other jurisdictions interested in establishing similar registries.

 The success of this exceptional initiative continues to improve as municipal governments realize the benefits, and incorporate registration as a requirement in their Road Haul Agreements. These communities become partners in improving overall sand and gravel operations, accountability, and stewardship within – and beyond – their jurisdictions.

Likewise, being part of the Registry illustrates a commitment by aggregate producers to uphold their haulers to a high standard of operation. When breaches to the minimum operating standards are reported, there is a formal record generated and the hauler is held to account.

Here’s how it works…

 Producers start the process by registering truck and driver information into the ASGA Truck Registry database. The database assigns a unique four-digit identifying number, and decal packages are sent to the registered driver. Each truck will display two large decals, one small, and two-year renewal decals. Registration is valid for one year, and all operational trucks are required to have current registration.

A centralized toll-free number is prominent on the decals. Concerned citizens have a clear way to identify the truck, and Call Centre information to provide details on incidents such as driver behaviour or infractions.  

The 24-hour toll free answering service documents complaint information and sends a notice to the ASGA database as well as to the producer who registered the vehicle. Once a producer is notified of a complaint, they log into their secured access to view and follow-up on the reported incident. Once addressed, they enter relevant information, including any disciplinary action taken, and close the file. To allow for a resolution, the substance of the complaint is discussed with the driver; however, information identifying the caller is not shared.

Decals remain with the vehicle for its life on the road. Over 3,000 vehicles register annually
in Alberta.

In the absence of a truck registry, it is difficult to identify trucks and know who to call; so they call the local municipal government office. By implementing truck registration as a requirement within development permits and haul road agreements, municipalities receive far fewer complaints, and are relieved from managing the complaints.

Best of all – there is no cost to municipalities! The registry and associated costs are paid for by ASGA member companies, and the ASGA office actively manages all components of the registry on behalf of our membership. In fact, Alberta Transportation requires that all contractors working on provincial or municipal contracts participate as a condition of their contracts (ASGA program is cited as the model).

In summary, benefits are derived not only within local communities, but province-wide. Standard requirements across Alberta provide truckers and their employers with minimum operating protocols when working for ASGA member companies. An annual review of concerns raised by the public allows ASGA to address issues, publish reports, develop education programs and implement best practices.  Focusing on key areas helps foster increasingly responsible operation by those who haul aggregate products in Alberta, and an improved commitment for the communities in which our members operate.