The federal transportation sector in Mexico is undergoing a transformation with the implementation of the self-compliance scheme , a strategy promoted by the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT) in conjunction with the National Association of Private Transportation (ANTP) .
The purpose of this model is for transport companies to internally verify compliance with key regulations , with particular emphasis on NOM-012 , which regulates weights and dimensions.
Voluntary compliance
During an event at Estafeta ‘s logistics center , Paulino Herrera Manzano, executive director of supervision for the Federal Transportation Directorate (DGAF) , explained that self-compliance will allow companies with high operating standards to reduce the administrative burden of external inspections, without neglecting safety and regulatory compliance.
“Among them, the first we’re going to try to achieve is self-compliance with Standard 012. We would try to bring these good examples to the rest of the industry; it will be very attractive, and therefore encourage them to improve their processes internally,” Herrera commented.
The official emphasized that several companies in the sector already meet standards higher than those required by official regulations, which facilitates the adoption of this scheme.
He also emphasized that the SICT and ANTP will work together to ensure that self-compliance maintains the levels of road and operational safety required by the industry.
From the private sector’s perspective, the ANTP recognized the importance of self-enforcement as a tool to strengthen road safety and efficient mobility.
Patricia Vizcaya, Legal and Regulatory Director of the ANTP, emphasized that “self-compliance is a verification scheme contemplated in NOM-012. The objective is to ensure that the industry, especially ANTP members, in collaboration with the SICT, fully complies with essential regulations and promotes safe travel and improved mobility.”
Vizcaya emphasized that complying with the weights and dimensions established in NOM-012 is key to ensuring the stability of the sector and preventing road risks. He also highlighted the importance of ongoing training for operators , ensuring they have current and appropriate licenses for the type of vehicle and cargo they transport.
He also highlighted the importance of the physical and mechanical review of vehicle configurations , which commits the industry and society to legitimate compliance with sector regulations.
The challenge of implementation
While the initiative seeks to encourage voluntary compliance with the standard , the transition to a self-compliance approach poses challenges. Successful implementation of the program will depend on companies’ ability to demonstrate that they have reliable internal verification processes, as well as on the support of authorities to ensure that this model does not lead to irregular practices.
For the SICT and ANTP, this scheme represents a step forward in the modernization of the sector and the promotion of better operating practices.
The expectation is that self-compliance will become an effective tool for reducing bureaucratic procedures, improving road safety, and increasing the industry’s competitiveness.
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