Time is running out: fleet operators have less than a year to meet new HGV safety requirements if they want to circulate in Greater London. From October 2024, Transport for London has established that HGVs over 12 tonnes will be required to have a three-star DVS rating or install the Progressive Safe System. A three-month transition period will be offered to the industry to comply with the new regulations.
But what are the DVS scheme and the Progressive Safe System, and why have they been implemented?
The Vision Zero action plan
The Direct Vision Standard system (and the consequent Progressive Safe System requirement) was established as one of the measures of the London Vision Zero action plan. The aim of Vision Zero is to eliminate traffic fatalities and injuries through a series of initiatives that involve improving road infrastructure, enforcing traffic regulations, promoting safer vehicle design, and raising public awareness about road safety. Many cities and countries around the world have already implemented various actions to eliminate road danger and protect vulnerable users such as cyclists and pedestrians, and London is one of them.
What is the DVS system?
The DVS system is a safety measure designed to improve HGV drivers’ visibility of all road users, particularly those who are more vulnerable, like cyclists and pedestrians, especially when in proximity to such vehicles. According to this new standard, HGV vehicles are categorized based on the direct vision level allowed from their cab without mirrors or cameras. The DVS assigns vehicles a rating from 0 to 5 stars (lowest to highest visibility). HGVs that fall below a certain level have to install additional safety equipment to reach the desired visibility. Starting from 1st March 2021, the minimum star rating for vehicles entering Greater London has been 1 star. But with the October 2024 deadline, HGVs have to comply with a 3-star rating or install the Progressive Safe System.
What is the Progressive Safe System?
As stated above, all vehicles not complying with the 3-star DVS rating will have to install the Progressive Safe System from October 2024. According to the official Transport for London DVS and PSS guide, HGVs classified with less than 3 stars will have to be fitted with:
- A camera monitoring system to provide a wider vision to the driver
- Class V and VI mirrors, installed as per UNECE Regulation 46
- Blind spot information equipment
- Moving off information systems
- Audible alarms for intended maneuvers
- External pictorial stickers and markings on the rear of the vehicle and any trailer used.
- Side under-run protection on both sides of the vehicle.
In order to be granted the permit to enter Greater London, operators will need to demonstrate compliance by providing:
- Photos of the installed equipment.
- A self-certifying statement that the vehicle has been fitted with the necessary devices.
Driving an HGV without a valid permit means risking a penalty charge notice of up to £550.
