DVS in focus with Vision Techniques
Safety equipment provider Vision Techniques has outlined a range of solutions it provides to assist operators in meeting the requirements of London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and HGV Safety Permit schemes.
The Direct Vision Standard gauges the extent to which an HGV driver can see their surroundings directly from their cab, with measures taken to eliminate the blind spots at the front and nearside of the vehicle.
Vehicles which meet the minimum requirements are then given a star rating, which qualifies them for a Safety Permit from Transport for London (TfL).
“TfL has proposed a series of changes to the DVS and HGV safety permit scheme, originally introduced in 2019, which requires all operators of HGVs weighing more than 12 tonnes to apply for a free permit to operate in London,” said Vision Techniques.
“From 2024, operators will need a minimum of a three-star rating to operate in London. Vision Techniques offers systems up to five-star rating with future changes in mind.”
Vision Techniques stocks a number of products to help fleets obtain DVS compliance.
“Amongst these approved products is our DVS 5* Elite system which includes our VT Turnaware, VT Turnalarm and accompanying blind spot decals,” said the company.
“VT Turnaware… is a blind spot AI camera system that uses video analytics to detect any vulnerable road users moving towards the vehicle and will warn the driver visually and audibly of their approach – eliminating blind spots and also false alarms.
“VT Turnalarm is our audible and visual talking ‘caution, this vehicle is turning left’ alarm with prominent flashing LEDs to warn vulnerable road users of the vehicle’s left turn manoeuvre.”
The firm’s customers include NRG Riverside, one of the largest and most diverse specialist fleet hire providers in the UK. Much of the company’s large vehicle fleet is hired for refuse work in the municipal industry, and road safety is therefore a top priority for the business.
“We’ve worked in partnership with Vision Techniques for many years and have relied on their innovations to help us enhance fleet safety,” said Ian Stevens of NRG Riverside.
“Our absolute priority is for our vehicles to be the safest they can be for the public, and these products help us do that.”
As one of the longest established companies offering safety-based products, Vision Techniques cites its extensive knowledge spanning over three decades across a wide range of industries including construction, waste management, quarrying and mining and agriculture.
“Specified by some of the largest fleets in the UK, Vision Techniques’ products are influencing and changing safety standards across industries daily,” it said.
“Our solutions include on vehicle CCTV cameras, telematics, radar technology, solar technology, collision avoidance systems, cyclist safety, AI, fail-safe braking systems and a range of warning alarms. Our aim is to deliver innovation and exceptional customer service with a ‘can-do’ attitude to exceed our customers’ expectations.”
