Transport for London (TfL) has proposed changes to the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and HGV safety permit scheme.
The proposed changes are designed to improve the safety standards of HGVs operating in the capital, further reducing the risks to vulnerable road users.
TfL’s HGV safety permit scheme, first introduced in 2019, requires all operators of HGVs weighing more than 12 tonnes to apply for a free permit to operate in London. Data shows that fatal collisions involving HGVs where vision is cited as a contributing factor halved from 12 in 2018, the year before the scheme was introduced, to six in 2021.
A permit is granted if the vehicle meets the minimum DVS star rating, which is based on how much the driver can see directly through their cab windows. TfL is asking people to have their say on recommendations to enhance the current Safe System, considering new and emerging technology or safety equipment that was not previously available. TfL is planning to move to a new Progressive Safe System to meet its goal of eliminating all deaths and serious injuries from London's transport network by 2041.
The consultation is open until 3 April and can be accessed via the TfL website.
Members can let the BVRLA know any comments on the proposed changes by emailing [email protected].
