Direct vision standards - Change to regulation
Direct Vision Standards – mandatory for LGVs in Greater London from October 2020
To help improve the safety of vulnerable road users in London, new measures are being introduced that may affect some of your client’s businesses. From 26th October 2020 most goods vehicles over 12 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight that enter or operate in Greater London will need to comply with new Direct Vision Standards as outlined by Transport for London (TfL).
Operators will need to apply for a Safety Permit for each of their qualifying vehicles, which will demonstrate compliance with the regulations and allow them to continue their business in Greater London. The permit is attained via a 1 - 5 rating system; based on the level of vision a driver has of their surroundings from the cab and therefore the ability to spot a cyclist or pedestrian. A low rating could mean additional investment in vehicle safety and monitoring equipment is required.
Automatic Number Plate Recognition (APNR) cameras will be used to monitor vehicles in the regulated areas and a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of up to £550 will be issued on non-compliant vehicles. However, due to the COVID-19 outbreak, TfL have confirmed that although the scheme will begin as planned, it will not be enforced until the end of February 2021 at the earliest.
Businesses affected should already be aware of these changes, but if you or your clients would like further information, we’ve produced a Loss Prevention Standard to help navigate the regulations and their implications.
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More detail can also be found on the TfL site https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/deliveries-in-london/delivering-safely/direct-vision-in-heavy-goods-vehicles