HGV rules are changing on 28th of October – don’t get caught out!
Major changes for the sector are being finalised later this month. One of the most crucial is focused on safety, and is focused on the Direct Vision Standard, which you may already be aware of if you operate in Greater London.
Essentially, Transport for London (TfL) will be introducing enhanced safety measures to what’s described as a “world-leading” HGV safety standard for the capital city. So if you plan to be driving your HGVs through London, then it’ll likely be your top priority. Even if you’re not planning on having vehicles travelling through London for the time being,, there’s a good chance that other cities will start to adopt some form of this scheme too, much like they did with Low Emissions Zones.
So before we dive into the changes, let’s start at the beginning with a quick refresher.
What is the Direct Vision Standard?
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is a road safety regulation introduced in the UK, specifically targeting heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) operating in Greater London. It’s and a key part of broader efforts to reduce road accidents and enhance safety in urban areas. Basically, the DVS is designed to measure how much a driver can see directly from their HGV cab without relying on mirrors or cameras. The aim is to reduce blind spots, thereby improving safety for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. (Due to their size and weight, HGVs are one of the single most dangerous types of vehicle on UK roads.)
The DVS and safety permit scheme was originally launched in 2019, and came into force in March 2021 for all vehicles over 12 tonnes. Under the DVS, HGVs are rated from zero to five stars based on their direct vision capability. Vehicles that do not meet the minimum star rating will not be permitted to operate within London unless they’re fitted with mitigating features in the form of the “Progressive Safe System”, which is what October’s new regulations pertain to.
What is the Progressive Safe System?
The Progressive Safe System is a set of vehicle safety measures designed to complement and reinforce the standards set out in the DVS by helping drivers and operators to minimise the inherent risk posed by HGVs to vulnerable road users. It requires such vehicles to be fitted with features like advanced sensor systems, improved camera monitoring, and audible warning alarms to significantly reduce risks associated with HGV blind spots.
Under the Progressive Safe System, HGVs are required to be fitted with advanced sensor systems that provide real-time feedback about their surroundings, including the presence of nearby road users. It also encompasses improved camera monitoring to offer a broader and clearer view around the vehicle, enabling drivers to make safer manoeuvres, as well as the inclusion of audible warning alarms to alert pedestrians and cyclists when the vehicle is turning or reversing – effectively reducing the chances of accidents in densely populated areas.
What does the new law say?
From 28 October 2024, a tougher DVS2 standard will be come into effect. At the time of writing, HGVs over 12 tonnes only need to have a one-star rating in order to operate within Greater London’s boundaries. On the 28th of October, HGVs will need to have at least a three-star rating, or be prohibited from travelling within the city limits until either they hold one, or they retrofit upgraded Progressive Safe System (PSS) sensors and cameras. Proof must also be provided to Transport for London.
Here's a quick roundup of some key changes that will need specific adjustments:
Upgrading blind spot sensors from side scan to a predictive radar system
Adding a ‘Moving OFF’ sensor system at the front of the vehicle
Changing DVS visual warning stickers from A4 to A3 size
It’s worth noting that installing the Progressive Safe System does not change the vehicle's star rating, but increases the overall safety of the vehicle, which is what permits it to operate in London.
These changes will come into effect on the 28th of October, so if you operate in London, this will need to be a top priority!
We’ll leave that side of things to you. As for us, we’ll concentrate on what we do best – giving you peace of mind when it comes to protecting your fuel. With decades of operation behind us here at TankSafe, we’ve helped countless businesses protect their fuel over the years, enabling them to effectively prevent 100% of fuel theft.
You can read more about how our flagship solution TankSafe Optimum works, or don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team if you have any further questions about the best ways to protect your fuel in 2024. Give us a quick call on 01253 400 401, and we'll be happy to help however we can!