Participation in loading or unloading falls under which category of time?

Participation in loading or unloading is categorized as on-duty time because this activity is directly related to the operational responsibilities of a commercial driver. When a driver is engaged in loading or unloading their vehicle, they are actively involved in the performance of their job and are thus considered to be working. This includes overseeing the process, securing the load, and ensuring that the cargo is appropriately handled, all of which are essential aspects of maintaining safety and compliance in transportation.

Being on-duty means that the driver is not only responsible for operating the vehicle but also for any related tasks, such as loading and unloading, which are necessary for the fulfillment of their job duties. Consequently, this time counted as on-duty time impacts the calculation of hours available for driving and rest periods, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements regarding work hours and driver fatigue management.