If you operate a fleet of trucks or lorries in London, you may have heard about the upcoming Direct Vision Standard (DVS). This new regulation, set to be implemented in March 2021, is aimed at improving road safety by reducing the number of accidents involving heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in the city. The DVS will assign a star rating to vehicles based on the driver’s direct vision from the cab, with zero stars being the lowest and five stars the highest.
Under the fleet Direct Vision Standard, all HGVs over 12 tonnes that enter or operate within Greater London’s Low Emission Zone will be required to obtain a safety permit. The permit will be based on the vehicle’s star rating, which is determined by how much the driver can see directly through the windows of the cab.
Vehicles that do not meet the required star rating will need to be fitted with additional safety equipment to improve visibility. This may include sideguards, sensors, cameras, and warning alarms to alert the driver of any potential hazards. The goal is to mitigate blind spots and provide drivers with a better view of cyclists, pedestrians, and other road users around their vehicle.
The fleet Direct Vision Standard is part of London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads by 2041. HGVs are involved in a disproportionate number of collisions with vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians, due to their size and blind spots. By improving direct vision and reducing blind spots, the Fleet DVS is expected to make London’s roads safer for everyone.
Fleet operators who fail to comply with the Direct Vision Standard will face penalties, including fines and possible license suspension. It is crucial for fleet managers to be aware of the requirements and take proactive steps to ensure their vehicles meet the necessary standards. This may involve investing in new safety equipment, training drivers on best practices for visibility, and regularly checking and maintaining vehicle components that impact visibility.
One of the main challenges for fleet operators is the cost of retrofitting vehicles to meet the required star rating. While safety is paramount, the financial burden of upgrading an entire fleet can be significant. Some operators may choose to phase out older vehicles that do not meet the standard rather than invest in costly upgrades. It is essential for fleet managers to carefully assess their options and develop a plan to transition to compliant vehicles within the deadline.
The fleet Direct Vision Standard is not the only measure being implemented to improve road safety in London. The city has also introduced a Safer Lorry Scheme, which requires all HGVs over 3.5 tonnes to be fitted with class V and VI mirrors to enhance visibility. Additionally, Transport for London has invested in infrastructure improvements, such as segregated cycle lanes and pedestrian crossings, to create safer road environments for all users.
While the Fleet Direct Vision Standard may present challenges for fleet operators, it ultimately serves a noble purpose of protecting vulnerable road users and reducing the number of accidents involving HGVs. By improving direct vision and reducing blind spots, the DVS will make London’s roads safer for everyone who uses them. Fleet operators who proactively comply with the standard will not only avoid penalties but also contribute to the overall goal of Vision Zero.
In conclusion, the Fleet Direct Vision Standard is a critical step towards improving road safety in London. Fleet operators must be aware of the requirements and take proactive measures to ensure their vehicles meet the necessary standards. By investing in safety equipment, training drivers, and maintaining visibility, fleet managers can protect their drivers and other road users while also contributing to the Vision Zero initiative. With careful planning and compliance, fleet operators can navigate the challenges of the DVS and help create safer roads for all.