Direct Vision Standard readiness survey launched

The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has launched a new survey on market readiness for the Direct Vision Standard (DVS).

The standard, which was first introduced in 2019 with enforcement starting in March 2021, seeks to improve drivers’ vision through the cab windows of HGVs above 12 tonnes to prevent collisions caused by limited visibility. 

All HGVs entering Greater London will be required to meet a three-star safety rating from October 28, 2024.

Lorries that fall short of the new standard will need to install new advanced warning systems referred to as the Progressive Safe System (PSS) to obtain a permit from Transport for London (TfL).

The RHA survey is open to all operators of HGVs servicing London. It follows on from the joint industry survey in January 2024 to provide an updated picture on sector’s ability to implement the new requirements.

RHA managing director, Richard Smith, said: “New rules for HGVs of over 12 tonne gross weight operating in London are coming in October and there’s still widespread concern within the industry about timescales and doubts remain about the availability and affordability of compliant kit and the challenges firms are facing to fit it.

“We’d like to thank everyone for responding to the previous industry DVS survey and for providing feedback to us.”

He added: “In our meetings with TfL and decision-makers in London, we have continued to make the case for a longer grace period and have continued to ask for further clarifications.

“Following the feedback we received, the RHA has secured clarifications to the PSS technical specifications.

“We’ve also secured some clarity in the form of an explainer document which will be released very soon.

“However, to get the further clarifications operators have asked for,  we need some more information in order to paint the clearest and most up to date picture we can of the sector's readiness for the changes. What are the current issues you are facing? How are you preparing for DVS?”

The RHA is encouraging all operators who will be impacted to take part in its survey by 6pm on Friday, June 28.