What is DVS?
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is a pioneering legislation. All HGVs over 12 tonnes, including those from outside the UK, need a HGV DVS safety permit to enter Greater London. This includes just passing through. If the vehicle does not meet the necessary Direct Vision Standard rating, operators must install additional safety equipment to adhere to the regulations.
The standard is focused on safety, meaning non-compliant vehicles will be at a higher risk of seriously injuring or killing a pedestrian or cyclist, should an incident occur.
The law, implemented by Transport for London (TfL) back in 2021, is grounded on a 'star rating' system that signifies the extent to which a driver can view other road users from their cabin. A star rating for your HGV will be issued by the vehicle manufacturer, which will be between 0-5. This rating is based on the condition of the vehicle when it left the production line, any aftermarket safety systems that have been fitted will not be taken into account.
Should your rating be 1 or 2 stars, your permit will lapse in 2024, necessitating a reapplication for a 10 year permit. However, if your vehicle is rated 3, 4, or 5 stars, your permit will be valid until 2030 (or a decade post the application date).
It's important to highlight that the minimum star rating will increase to three in 2024, implying that even if you meet the current standards, you must also prepare for the upcoming changes.
Why Do You Need To Comply With DVS?
Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) failing to meet the baseline requirement of 1 star (3 stars from October 2024) must adhere to the DVS Safe System. This necessitates the fitting of additional devices for indirect vision to warn HGV drivers about vulnerable road users located in a vehicle's blind spot.
Complying with the DVS Safe System only permits you to drive into greater London, it does not alter your star rating.
What Are The Risks Of Not Complying With DVS?
The main consideration for HGV fleet operators in regards to DVS is the fines. If your HGV drivers operate in London without the required permits, the company could be fined up-to £550 with the driver also being fined £130. This can put a strain on the relationship between drivers and fleet operators.
What DVS safety system needs to be installed in order to comply?
To be fully DVS compliant, you will need to ensure you have adequate mirrors and signage, along with a fully operational camera monitoring system combined with audible vehicle manoeuvring alerts.
Should your vehicle have a 0-star rating (until 2024), it is mandatory to install the subsequent audio/visual technology to enhance your vehicle's safety.
Our DVS kit includes:
- Proximity Sensors
- Left Turn Warning Alarm
- 3 Ch. AHD Monitor
- AHD Side / Blindspot Camera
- Blind Spot Warning Sticker (For Cyclists)
- 5m Extension Cable
For a DVS Installation, please contact us at either:
stuart.cox@driveshield.co.uk
0800 074 6116
(01642) 608464
