In the Philippines, road safety is a top priority, especially with the implementation of Republic Act 10916, also known as the Road Speed Limiter Act of 2016. One key component in the proper execution of this law is the certification process for speed limiting devices (SLDs).
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) issued Department Administrative Order (DAO) 19-14 to establish clear guidelines for certifying speed limiters in compliance with the law.
This ensures that only reliable and safe devices are installed in vehicles, particularly those used in public transportation and logistics.
Certification Requirements for Speed Limiters
For a speed limiter to be legally installed and operational in the Philippines, it must be certified by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
This certification serves as proof that the device meets strict standards for safety and performance. The process of certification ensures that the device is tamper-proof, accurate in recording speeds, and durable enough to function under various driving conditions.
The key certification requirements are:
- Safety and Performance Standards: The speed limiter must adhere to safety protocols that protect both drivers and passengers. It should perform consistently under different driving environments, maintaining the set speed limits without malfunction.
- Tamper-Proof Features: One of the most critical requirements is that the device must be tamper-proof. This means the device cannot be easily manipulated or deactivated by unauthorized individuals, ensuring that speed limits are enforced at all times.
- Accurate Speed Monitoring: The device must have the capability to accurately record and monitor the vehicle’s speed. This ensures compliance with Republic Act 10916, which aims to prevent overspeeding on Philippine roads.
Steps for Certification
The certification process under DTI DAO 19-14 is comprehensive, involving multiple steps to ensure that only high-quality speed limiters are approved for use. Here’s a detailed look at the steps involved:
- Submission of Application: The certification process begins when the distributor or manufacturer of the speed limiter submits an application to the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), a division of the DTI. This application includes detailed documentation about the technical specifications of the device, such as how it functions, its safety features, and its compliance with Philippine regulations.
- Device Testing: After the application is submitted, the speed limiter undergoes rigorous testing to ensure that it meets the performance criteria outlined in Republic Act 10916 and DAO 19-14. This testing process examines various aspects of the device, such as:
- Durability: The device must be able to withstand harsh driving conditions and continue to operate effectively over time.
- Tamper-Proof Nature: The tests ensure that the device cannot be easily altered or disabled by unauthorized persons, which is vital for maintaining road safety.
- Accuracy: The device’s ability to record and regulate vehicle speed is tested to ensure it functions within the required speed limits.
- Certification Issuance: Once the device passes all necessary tests and is deemed compliant with DAO 19-14, the Bureau of Philippine Standards issues a PS License for the speed limiter. This license is a certification that allows the device to be legally sold, installed, and operated in vehicles within the Philippines. With this certification, fleet operators and vehicle owners can have the confidence that the speed limiter they are using is reliable and meets all safety standards.
The Importance of DAO 19-14 Compliance
Compliance with DTI DAO 19-14 is crucial for ensuring that only high-quality speed limiters are used on Philippine roads.
Without proper certification, speed limiters cannot be legally installed on vehicles operating under Republic Act 10916. The certification process ensures that devices meet the necessary standards to protect the safety of drivers, passengers, and the general public.
Some of the key benefits of DAO 19-14 compliance include:
- Ensuring Public Safety: By enforcing strict standards for speed limiters, the DTI ensures that only devices that can effectively control vehicle speeds are used, significantly reducing the risk of accidents caused by overspeeding.
- Legal Compliance for Fleet Operators: Fleet operators and vehicle owners must comply with the law to avoid fines and penalties. Having a certified speed limiter installed ensures that their vehicles are roadworthy and in line with government regulations.
- Reliability of Devices: Certified speed limiters are tested for durability and accuracy, ensuring they will perform consistently over time. This reliability reduces the risk of malfunction, which could otherwise lead to dangerous driving conditions.
Conclusion
The DTI DAO 19-14 certification process is essential for ensuring that speed limiting devices installed in vehicles are safe, reliable, and effective. It guarantees that the devices meet strict performance standards, are tamper-proof, and can accurately monitor vehicle speeds.
For fleet operators and vehicle owners, complying with DAO 19-14 is not just a legal requirement but a crucial step toward enhancing road safety in the Philippines.
By understanding and following the certification process, they can ensure their vehicles are equipped with the best speed limiters, promoting safer driving conditions for everyone on the road.