Chris Bowen gets DVS-ready with Trakm8

Chris Bowen Specialist Transport has turned to vehicle technology provider Trakm8 to provide a comprehensive solution for compliance with the London Direct Vision Standard (DVS), which is now being enforced in the capital.

Specialising in the transport of hard-to-move goods, such as critical materials and equipment required for construction and infrastructure projects, Chris Bowen learned of Trakm8 through its work with FORS (the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme).

Trakm8 worked with Chris Bowen to determine exactly which systems were required. For its articulated vehicles, Trakm8 recommended the RoadHawk DVR8000, a device capable of operating and recording on up to eight cameras simultaneously, said to enable excellent direct vision on vehicles of this class.

For Chris Bowen’s standard HGVs, the RoadHawk DVR4000 was selected, supporting up to four cameras. These allow for easy input/output once installed, says Trakm8, and a single point of connection to maximise ease of installation. This allowed the entire installation process to go ahead through Chris Bowen’s on-site fleet mechanic.

These devices were complemented by front facing, rear facing and blind spot RoadHawk cameras, connected in turn to a RoadHawk TFT Monitor. Brought together, the system is said to provide excellent vision from the cab, providing drivers with the ability to identify hazards and act before accidents occur.

Ian Hadley, transport manager at Chris Bowen Specialist Transport, said: “As a HGV fleet operator, Chris Bowen has a responsibility to continually drive up standards across its business and this is a key driver of the investment we’ve made.

“The safety of our fleet drivers and the road users around them are of paramount importance… The innovative technology used in Trakm8’s cameras gives our fleet new levels of direct vision around the vehicle, significantly improving safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians alike on UK roads.”

Peter Mansfield, group sales and marketing director at Trakm8,added: “The importance of accreditation through FORS, as well as now through regulations such as DVS, has only grown over the last few years and this is a trend which we think is set to continue…

“It’s urgent that operators in and around London, or in cities further afield which are likely to introduce similar rules in the future, look to implement the necessary changes now to avoid accidental, but very costly, non-compliance.”

More information on Trakm8 and its DVS offering can be found at the website.