EEC Regulation No. 3821, often referred to as the "tachograph regulation," sets forth the uniform provisions concerning the construction, installation, use, and control of recording equipment in road transport. This regulation is crucial for ensuring that driving and rest times of professional drivers are monitored and controlled, thus enhancing road safety, ensuring fair competition, and protecting the health and safety of drivers.

Key Requirements:

1. Construction and Installation: The regulation specifies the technical standards for the construction and installation of tachographs. These devices must be capable of recording data related to driving time, rest periods, and other work activities of drivers. The tachographs must be installed in vehicles in a manner that ensures accuracy and tamper resistance.
2. Use and Data Recording: Drivers are required to use tachographs to record their driving times, rest periods, and other relevant activities. The regulation mandates that the recorded data must be clear, accurate, and easily retrievable for inspection by enforcement authorities. This ensures that drivers adhere to legal driving and rest time limits, preventing fatigue-related accidents.
3. Inspection and Maintenance: The regulation outlines the procedures for regular inspection and maintenance of tachographs to ensure their continued accuracy and reliability. This includes periodic calibration and verification of the devices by authorized technicians. Proper maintenance helps prevent tampering and ensures that the recorded data remains accurate over time.
4. Enforcement and Penalties: The regulation provides a framework for the enforcement of tachograph use and the penalties for non-compliance. Enforcement authorities have the right to inspect tachograph data to ensure that drivers and transport operators are adhering to the regulations. Non-compliance can result in fines, penalties, and other legal consequences.

EEC Regulation No. 3821 is part of a broader effort to improve road safety, ensure fair competition among transport operators, and protect the welfare of drivers. By adhering to this regulation, transport operators contribute to a safer and more regulated road transport environment.