Navigating London's Direct Vision Standard: A Guide for HGV Operators

Understanding the DVS

The Direct Vision Standard mandates that all goods vehicles over 12 tonnes require a permit to enter Greater London. This applies not only to vehicles from the UK but also those from other countries. The crux of the standard revolves around the concept of “direct vision,” which measures a vehicle’s ability to provide drivers with a clear view of their surroundings, minimizing blind spots and consequently reducing the risk of accidents involving vulnerable road users.

Rating System and Compliance

Vehicles are assigned star ratings, ranging from 0 to 5, based on their direct vision capabilities as they leave the production line. Notably, aftermarket safety systems are not taken into consideration while determining this rating. The minimum requirement for entry into London is a 1-star rating, with stricter standards coming into play from October 2024, demanding a 3-star rating.

HGVs falling below the 1-star (3-star after October 2024) threshold must adopt the DVS Safe System, which involves installing additional devices to enhance indirect vision, similar to the specifications of FORS and CLOCS. This system alerts drivers to the presence of vulnerable road users in blind spots, ensuring heightened safety. It’s important to note that compliance with the DVS Safe System doesn’t change a vehicle’s star rating but enables entry into Greater London.

Steps to Compliance

To determine your vehicle’s star rating, contact the manufacturer.

Vehicles with a star rating of 1-5 are eligible for a permit until October 2024, though a permit application is still required. For vehicles rated 1-2 stars, the permit remains valid until October 25, 2024. Post this date, compliance with the DVS Progressive Safe System is necessary, along with a reapplication for a permit, supported by proof of installation.

For vehicles rated 3-5 stars, the permit is valid until October 25, 2030, or 10 years (whichever is later).

In the case of 0-star-rated vehicles complying with the DVS Safe System, a permit is issued until October 25, 2024. Beyond this deadline, updating devices to align with the DVS Progressive Safe System’s requirements is essential for permit renewal.

What you need to achieve on your vehicle to achieve compliance

You will need the following on your vehicle to ensure compliance:

• Predictive side sensor technology for collision warning
• Front sensor system that alerts the driver to vulnerable road users in the detection path during the initial start and while in motion.
• Nearside camera and monitoring system
• Audible alarm to notify surrounding road users of the driver’s impending manoeuvre
• A DVS sticker
• Products must possess an E Mark Certification.

At Daltec, we want to remove the headache of sourcing the equipment from multiple suppliers by bringing you a complete DVS Compliance Kit.. coming soon.

Find out more about our Changes to the Safety Permit Scheme for HGVs (June 2023) – A summary or get in touch.

Sales@dal-tec.com

020 8515 7820