TfL to extend Direct Vision Standard grace period

Transport for London (TfL) has agreed to extend the grace period for implementing the Direct Vision Standard (DVS).

Introduced in 2019, with enforcement starting in March 2021, DVS seeks to improve drivers’ vision through the cab windows of heavy goods vehicles (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.

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 TfL.

However, many fleets are concerned about the availability and reliability of equipment to update vehicles, while others are concerned about the timeframe available to install new equipment.

Councillors met last week at the London Councils’ transport and environment committee’s AGM, to discuss whether to give fleets more time to adapt their vehicles.

It was considered whether to grant no extension, which road safety campaigners have argued for, to grant a 12-month extension, which the industry has called for, or to accept the six-month delay that TfL has proposed, with the new rules being implemented from May 4, 2025.

Following the meeting, TfL officials have now agreed to extend the grace period from three to six months.

TfL says that to qualify for the grace period, you will need to provide evidence that you have installation works arranged to fit the PSS but that this is scheduled for after October 28, otherwise you will still be fined for non-compliance prior to the new, extended grace period ending on May 4, 2025.

Richard Smith, managing director of the Road Haulage Association (RHA), said: “We have collaborated extensively with the industry to better understand its challenges to be able to comply to a new standard with short timescales.

“Our most recent survey revealed that 57% of respondents said they weren’t confident of being able to install compliant equipment in time.

“Now we’ve secured much-needed clarifications and a grace period extension the industry can now move forward to invest.

“Meanwhile, we are also clear that road safety is everybody’s responsibility where all road users play their full part. We will continue to ensure that policymakers recognise and apply this important point.”

Chris Yarsley, senior policy manager at Logistics UK, also welcomed the extension. “After intensive negotiations between TfL and Logistics UK, AICES and RHA, we welcome the decision that provides our members with the time, and peace of mind, to ensure they can comply with the stricter standards,” he said. 

“Our members remain committed to the very highest standards of road safety, and the extension will ensure that there is sufficient time for hauliers to source and fit the required equipment.”

He added: “We would also like to thank London Councils for ensuring that when further phases of DVS are introduced, TfL will be required to provide additional information to smooth their introduction, namely information on real-world testing of equipment; measures to mitigate phase two equipment obsolescence; details of equipment and fitters’ availability and mitigating sensory overload of drivers.

“It is nevertheless important for operators to continue their preparations regarding the new DVS standard because the regulations will still change on 28 October.

“The London Councils’ decision does not change this date, but it does provide a sensible grace period to ensure operators can comply without incurring financial penalties.”

Guidance to help commercial fleets operating HGVs in London understand the new safety equipment technical specifications was published last month (June).