In an effort to improve road safety and reduce the number of accidents involving lorries in urban areas, Transport for London (TfL) has introduced the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) This scheme requires all lorries over 12 tonnes gross vehicle weight to have a permit indicating that the vehicle meets certain safety requirements in terms of driver visibility The DVS is part of the Vision Zero initiative, with the goal of eliminating deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads by 2041.
To comply with the DVS, fleet owners must ensure that their lorries are fitted with the necessary safety features to improve the driver’s visibility from the cab The main focus is on reducing blind spots that can put cyclists, pedestrians, and other vulnerable road users at risk The DVS measures the amount of direct vision from the driver’s seat, particularly of vulnerable road users near the vehicle.
One of the key requirements for lorry DVS compliance is the installation of Class V and VI mirrors Class V mirrors are wide-angle mirrors fitted on the passenger side of the cab to provide a clear view of the blind spot on that side of the vehicle Class VI mirrors are close-proximity mirrors that help drivers see cyclists and pedestrians near the front of the lorry These mirrors must be fitted and adjusted to provide the maximum visibility possible for the driver.
Another crucial element of DVS compliance is the use of cameras and sensors to provide additional visibility around the lorry This includes fitting cameras to cover blind spots and areas that are not visible through mirrors, as well as audible warnings to alert the driver to the presence of vulnerable road users The cameras and sensors must meet the required standards set by TfL to ensure they are effective in improving visibility for the driver.
Fleet owners must also ensure that their drivers are adequately trained to operate the lorries in a way that minimizes risks to vulnerable road users Lorry DVS Compliance. This includes training on how to use the safety features installed on the vehicle, as well as awareness of the potential blind spots and how to check for cyclists and pedestrians before making manoeuvres Regular refresher training should be provided to ensure that drivers are always aware of the importance of road safety and DVS compliance.
In addition to the safety features required for DVS compliance, fleet owners must also apply for a DVS permit from TfL This permit is issued based on the level of visibility provided by the vehicle and must be displayed on the lorry at all times when operating in Greater London Failure to comply with the DVS requirements can result in fines and penalties, as well as the risk of being banned from operating in London altogether.
Maintaining DVS compliance is an ongoing process that requires regular checks and maintenance of the safety features installed on lorries Fleet owners should conduct regular inspections of the mirrors, cameras, and sensors to ensure they are working properly and providing the necessary visibility for the driver Any issues should be addressed promptly to avoid the risk of non-compliance and potential safety hazards on the road.
In conclusion, ensuring lorry DVS compliance is essential for fleet owners operating in London to improve road safety and protect vulnerable road users By installing the required safety features, training drivers, and obtaining the necessary permits, fleet owners can demonstrate their commitment to Vision Zero and contribute to the goal of eliminating deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads Compliance with the DVS is not only a legal requirement but also a moral imperative to protect all road users and create a safer environment for everyone.