What is Direct Vision?

Firstly lets start with what is Direct Vision? From October 2020, all vehicles more than 12 tonnes gross vehicle weight (GVW) will require an HGV safety permit to operate in Greater London

The DVS will objectively measures a driver’s direct view through the windows of an HGV cab. This is communicated as a star rating from zero (poor) to five (excellent), which indicates the level of risk to people walking and cycling near the vehicle.

Why?

Direct Vision was launched by the mayor of London was created to improve the safety of all road users. Vision Zero means ensuring the street environment incorporates safe speeds, safe behaviours, safe street design and safe vehicles to target road danger at its source.

 

Do i need a safety permit?

All HGV’s more than 12 tonnes entering or operating in Greater London from 26th October 2020 will need to hold a safety permit. will be issued from October 2019. The scheme will be enforced from 26th October across Greater London 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

How do I make my vehicle compliant?

If your vehicle meets the minimum DVS star rating you will be granted a permit.

From 26 October 2020, the minimum DVS rating will be one star to enter or operate in Greater London and this will then increase to a minimum of three stars in 2024.

If your vehicle does not meet the DVS star rating or is not rated, you will need to meet the ‘Safe System’ requirements to be granted a permit

Under the scheme proposals, it would be unlawful to:
• Operate an HGV more than 12 tonnes GVW in Greater London
without a permit
• Breach Safe System permit conditions

What is the Safe System?

The Safe System is a series of vehicle safety measures (fitted after point of
manufacture) which are designed to reduce the risks that HGVs present to people walking, cycling and other vulnerable road users.

Vision Techniques have been at the forefront of safety for over 30 years and our products have been developed specifically for this purpose.

“The Safe System requirements have been identified as current industry good practice by an independent advisory group with representatives from cycling and pedestrian groups, industry trade associations, vehicle manufacturers and government organisations.” Transport for London

 

Future

The first review of the Safe System is scheduled for 2024, when it is proposed the minimum DVS star rating will be increased to three stars.

This review will take into account any additional technology or safety equipment that was not available in 2020. This will become known as the Progressive Safe System.

What do I need?

There is a minimum standard for you to get a one star rating. Here are the minimum requirements

• Class V mirror shall be fitted to the nearside of the vehicle
• Class VI mirror shall be fitted to the front of the vehicle
Check out our mirror range of our VT Store https://www.vtstore.co.uk/
• Cameras – A fully operational camera monitoring system shall be fitted to the nearside of the vehicle
Our Camera range is comprehensive and covers every angle of any size of vehicle https://www.vision-techniques.com/vehicle-cameras/
• Protection – Side under-run protection shall be fitted to both sides of the vehicle
• Signage – Prominent pictorial warning sign
We have a number of compliant signs available to buy online https://www.vision-techniques.com/vehicle-cameras/
• Sensors – A sensor system that alerts the driver to the presence of a vulnerable road user shall be fitted to the nearside of the vehicle
• Alarms – Audible vehicle manoeuvring warning shall be fitted to warn vulnerable road users when a vehicle is turning left
Our cyclist safety product range will ensure you are issued with your one star rating
https://www.vision-techniques.com/turnsafe/

How do I apply for my permit?

Step1 – Find out your rating

Phone or email your vehicle manufacturer with the VIN number of your vehicle
Your Vehicle manufacturer will advise your star rating
If 0 star see step 2
If one to five star – see step 3

Step 2 – Safe system requirements

You will need to fit additional “Safe System” check our “What you need section”
Once your vehicle has the equipment fitted apply for your permit

Step 3 – Apply for your permit

Apply for your permit online tfl.gov.uk/direct-vision-permit
Enter vehicle details for multiple vehicles via a spreadsheet template and check ratings
Enter your operator details
Enter contact details
If zero star
Upload photos of Safe System equipment
Submit your application
Application will be reviewed and accepted (permit issued)or rejected with reasons (you will need to re-apply)
If one to five start -electronic permit will be granted

If you require any further information please get in touch with our team 01772 679 717