TfL has announced proposals to build on and improve its HGV safety permit scheme, in a bid to reduce the level of risk to vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.
First introduced in 2019, the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) requires all operators of HGVs weighing more than 12 tonnes to apply for a free permit to operate in the Capital.
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.
Ratings range from zero stars (the lowest rating with poor direct vision) to five stars (the highest rating with excellent direct vision). Vehicles that do not meet the minimum requirements, currently one star, must already have or fit the ‘Safe System’.
This is a series of vehicle safety measures, such as mirrors, sensors and cameras, which are designed to reduce the risks that HGVs present to people walking and cycling.
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.
TfL is now asking people to have their say on recommendations to enhance the current Safe System, taking into account new and emerging technology or safety equipment that was not previously available.
Proposed changes to the Safe System include:
- Updating existing guidance on the use of mirrors and mirror-replacement Camera Monitoring Systems (CMS)
- The requirement for CMS fitted on vehicles to eliminate any remaining blind spots on the passenger side
- Sensors ensuring full coverage down the passenger side of all vehicles to detect vulnerable road users. They must not activate in relation to roadside furniture or stationary vehicles
- Moving Off Information Systems (MOIS) fitted to the front of a vehicle to prevent collisions at the frontal blind spot zone when a vehicle moves off from rest
- Audio warnings fitted to all vehicles, including those with left hand drive to ensure all vehicles operating in London have the ability to warn of an intended manoeuvre
A consultation is running until 3 April 2023.
Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: ”Enabling more Londoners to walk and cycle safely is a top priority for the mayor and it’s at the heart of our plans for a greener and more sustainable London for everyone.
“Data shows that our world-leading Direct Vision Standard is playing an important role in reducing the level of risk posed by HGVs to people walking and cycling in the Capital.
“Every death and serious injury on our roads is a tragedy and it’s clear that there is still more work to do, which is why TfL is now asking Londoners to have their say on the next phase of plans which would strengthen HGV safety measures even further.”
17 February 2023