FIVE things YOU need to know about The Direct Vision Standard
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is launching the world's first Direct Vision Standard (DVS) for HGVs. From 26th October 2020 it will be an offence for any vehicle over 12 tons to enter London without the minimum required equipment.
The scheme was created to improve the safety of all road users, particularly vulnerable road users like pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists. HGVs are a major contributor to fatalities, in 2016, 23% of pedestrian and 50% of cyclist deaths involved an HGV, despite HGVs making up only 4% of road miles in London. (TFL, 2018).
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) rates HGVs which are over 12 tons from 0 Stars (lowest) to 5 stars (highest). The Direct Vision Standard is based on the measurement of driver's vision through the windows of the HGV cab.
The equipment required to meet the requirements will consist of:
1.) A fully operational Blind Spot camera monitoring system with an in-cab monitor.
2.) A side detection sensor system with driver alerts to be fitted the near side of the vehicle.
3.) An audible *left-turn alarm to be fitted to the vehicle to warn road users when the vehicle is manoeuvring left.
4.) Side-underrun protection with class V and VI mirrors.
5.) External pictorial stickers and markings shall be displayed on the vehicles to warn road users of hazards around the vehicle.
*All European left-hand side drivers will require the equivalent for the right-hand side blind spot.
