The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) for commercial vehicles over 12 tonnes was introduced in March to improve road safety further. It is now operating 24/7 across London; the standard measures the driver’s direct field of vision from their cab, using a star system from 0 to 5.
Vehicles that meet the minimum star rating are granted a free electronic permit enforced by automatic number plate recognition, with non-compliant operators handed a penalty charge notice of £550 per day.
Around 90,000 permits have been issued, including HGVs with additional safety systems installed to meet the standard.
These included: cameras covering blind spots linked to a video display in the cab; an audible warning when turning left; motion sensors covering the sides of the lorry at low speeds; and a prominent warning device on the back of their vehicle.
Unlike other vehicle safety initiatives such as the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS), the DVS is mandatory for all operators. However, if a fleet is FORS Silver or FORS Gold accredited, it will automatically comply with the current DVS regulations.
FLEETMAXX SOLUTIONS FORS practitioner, Rachel Pearson, offers support to organisations taking up the FORS scheme. She says, “Driver safety and the prevention of accidents must be based on a mix of direct vision – looking in the right place at the right time to see the potential danger – and indirect vision with technology use of cameras, sensors and reversing alarms.”
Whether you have one or thousands of vehicles on the road, we can help reduce your running costs with discounted diesel, petrol, electric fuel cards, telematics tracking, vehicle cameras, driver training and business insurance solutions. Get in touch at www.fleetmaxxsolutions.co.uk ─ we look forward to becoming your ‘trusted partner’.
