DVS deadline postponed
The enforcement of London’s Progressive Safe System (PPS) rules under the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) will now begin on May 4, 2025, as the grace period has been extended by six months. This extension was approved by the London Councils’ Transport and Environment Committee.
What is DVS?
The DVS aims to improve drivers’ vision through the cab windows of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) over 12 tonnes to prevent collisions caused by limited visibility. All HGVs entering Greater London will need to meet a three-star safety rating from October 28, 2024.
Requirements for compliance
Lorries that do not meet the new standard will need to install advanced warning systems, referred to as the Progressive Safe System (PSS), to obtain a permit from TfL. However, many fleets are concerned about the availability and reliability of the necessary equipment and the timeframe for installation.
At Daltec we are committed to ensuring our customer based have the right PSS solution in order to fulfil their client demands. Explore Virtus Fleet DVS Progress Safe System Solution.
Industry response
Chris Yarsley, Senior Policy Manager at Logistics UK, commented on the decision: “Following intensive negotiations among TfL, Logistics UK, AICES, and RHA, we are pleased with the decision. It gives our members the necessary time and assurance to meet the stricter standards. Our members are dedicated to maintaining top-tier road safety standards, and this extension allows hauliers ample time to procure and install the required equipment.”
Yarsley also mentioned that TfL will need to provide further details to facilitate the new rules’ implementation. This includes real-world equipment testing, strategies to prevent phase two equipment obsolescence, details on available equipment and fitters, and measures to prevent driver sensory overload.
Decision-making process
Councillors met last week at the London Councils’ Transport and Environment Committee’s AGM to discuss whether to grant fleets more time to adapt their vehicles. They considered three options: granting no extension (favoured by road safety campaigners), a 12-month extension (requested by the industry), or the six-month delay proposed by TfL, with the new rules being implemented from May 4, 2025. The Road Haulage Association (RHA) confirmed that TfL officials agreed to extend the grace period from three to six months.
Application for grace period
TfL stated that those wishing to apply for the grace period must provide evidence that they have scheduled installation works to fit the PSS after October 28, 2024. The RHA is awaiting confirmation from TfL on these details.
Continued preparations are essential
Despite the extended grace period, Yarsley emphasized the importance of continued preparation with the original date of October 28 in mind: “Operators should keep preparing for the new DVS standard because the regulations will still change on October 28. The extension doesn’t alter this date but offers a reasonable period to ensure compliance without financial penalties.”
Extended period a welcome relief
The extended grace period is a welcomed relief for many in the logistics sector, allowing additional time for adjustments and compliance with the new safety standards. However, the focus remains on the upcoming changes and ensuring all preparations are completed by the October deadline. Richard Smith, RHA managing director, said: “We have collaborated extensively with the industry to better understand its challenges to be able to comply with a new standard with short timescales.”
Daltec your partner for DVS Compliance
At Daltec, we are stocking large quantities of DVS ‘PSS’ Solution so our clients are able to fulfil their client demand. Additionally, the Virtus Fleet DVS Solutions have been fitted to vehicles that have successfully received the permit in order to show proof of compliance. Explore the DVS ‘PSS’ AI Sensor Solution and the ‘DVS ‘PSS’ AI Camera Solution.
