IS YOUR FIRM READY FOR THE DIRECT VISION STANDARD?

The UK transport industry is facing a huge number of challenges at the moment, with Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic being the reigning difficulties. However, the latest issue facing the haulage industry is the Direct Vision Standard (DVS).

From 1 March, the Transport for London (TfL) DVS enforcement to improve all road users’ safety will come into force, which will require all heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) over 12 tonnes to meet set safety criteria to receive a permit to enter and operate in Greater London, or face hefty fines, according to the Evening Standard.

There are reports that there are still thousands of HGV operator yet to apply for their safety permits. However, TfL has allowed a grace period of 90 days from 1 March to allow hauliers to comply with the new requirements.

But operators shouldn’t rest on their laurels, as the consequences for entering London without a permit from the beginning of March are significant: operators will receive a penalty charge of up to £550, and drivers will be fined £130.

Operators should check on the TfL website to determine whether their vehicles are compliant and if any additional safety devices will need to be fitted. To be declared eligible for a free permit, vehicles must meet a minimum ‘one-star’ rating.  

Operators with vehicles awarded a star rating between one and five can apply for their permit straight away.

But those with no rating, or zero stars, will be required to fit approved ‘Safe System’ improvements, reapply and provide supporting evidence that their vehicle now has improved visibility.

HERE IS A BREAKDOWN OF THE REQUIREMENTS:

• Class V and VI mirrors; a fully operational camera monitoring system, and a sensor system with driver alerts, to improve indirect vision and nearside visibility
• An audible vehicle manoeuvring warning for left turns (or right turns if the vehicle is left-hand drive), together with warning signage, to warn of intended maneuverers
• Side-underrun protection to minimise physical impacts. 

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