TORONTO, Ont. — Ontario has announced it will provide a five-year extension for Phase 3 Safe, Productive, Infrastructure-Friendly (SPIF) vehicles, according to the Ontario Trucking Association.

The OTA applauded the extension today, noting the changes will allow more carriers to continue using the non-SPIF vehicles until the end of their life-cycles. Phase 3 of the SPIF requirements were implemented in January 2006, affecting all non-dump multi-axle semi-trailers (four or more axles) and double trailer combinations. In 2006, existing equipment was grandfathered until a sunset date of the end of 2015. After that, semi-trailers built before 2006 would be allowed to operate only under special permits until reaching the age of 15 years for non-tank trailers, and 20 years for tank trailers.

But because of the recession in 2008-2009, carriers have struggled to replace equipment and many were concerned they’d be able to meet the SPIF requirements by the deadline.

OTA requested a five-year extension of the grandfathering provisions, which has been granted.

The additional five years of grandfathering will kick in after 2015 and allow qualifying non-tank trailers 20 years of age and under as well as tankers 25 years of age and under to be eligible for special permitting until they reach those ages respectively based on their year of manufacture, the OTA announced today. The permits allow continued operation at existing weight allowances. When all grandfather protection is exhausted, these trailers may continue to operate, but at significantly reduced gross weight allowances.

“OTA is most appreciative of the receptivity of MTO to reconsider this matter and to work with us to reach a collaborative, responsible and proactive solution,” says OTA president David Bradley. “The industry remains committed to SPIF, but these are difficult times and the carriers needed some extra breathing space and support. Today’s announcement will allow them to plan and manage existing and future capital investments.”