AddSecure assists with DVS upgrades
With changes to heavy goods vehicle (HGV) standards due to come into action next year, technology provider AddSecure has warned that fleet operators need to be proactive to mitigate the risk of penalties and improve pedestrian safety within Greater London.
The clampdown on reduced vision comes as part of the Mayor of London’s Vision Zero strategy, with the goal of eliminating all deaths and serious injuries in HGV-related incidents caused by poor visibility by 2041.
The DVS rating system measures how much a driver can see through the HGVs cab windows, taking into account factors such as the size and shape of the vehicle, position of the cab and design of the mirrors and windows. But from 28 October 2024, HGVs over 12 tonnes failing to meet the minimum three-star DVS threshold will need to be fitted with a Progressive Safe System (PSS).
“With the risk of a £550 Penalty Charge Notice (PNC) per vehicle for a breach of the new standard, obtaining or re-obtaining a safety permit before operating in Greater London is imperative,” said Paul Lawrence, managing director of AddSecure UK, North America and Australia.
“Made up of camera monitoring systems (CMS), audio warnings and signage, a PSS will take a few hours to install per vehicle. Fleet operators should ensure adequate time is planned for this process, to ensure there are a limited number of vehicles out of action at any one time.
“The new PSS must include a fully operational camera monitoring system, fitted to the nearside of the vehicle to completely eliminate any remaining blind spots. A Blind Spot Information System (BSIS) should also be fitted to the nearside of the vehicle, and a Moving Off Information System (MOIS) needs to be fitted to the front of the vehicle.
“The MOIS and BSIS are required to warn drivers of the presence of vulnerable road users, in accordance with the technical specifications for the PSS. Class V and VI mirrors must be included, or a CMS can be used as an alternative to cover side underrun protection.
“Audible alerts for left turning and visual warning decals will warn pedestrians and cyclists of a vehicle’s impaired visibility, spreading the responsibility of road safety to those both on and off the road.”
Every fleet is different, adds Paul, and will require different solutions to meet the updated standards.
“AddSecure’s advanced solution packages can be customised to fit the needs of specific vehicles, meaning operators are only making the necessary additions and saving money across the fleet,” he said.
“With AddSecure’s innovative cloud technology and PSS solutions, drivers are able to utilise the cameras as a second pair of eyes, and operators are able to access footage remotely. Whether operators are looking to install a fully integrated system, including a full multi-camera and telematics solution, or a standalone DVS Progressive Safe System, AddSecure’s wide range of technology ensures every angle of a vehicle is covered.
“With up to 90 per cent of HGVs (165,000 vehicles) operating in London set to be impacted by the new DVS regulations, fleet operators who haven’t already started making plans to upgrade vehicles should consider doing so.
“Whilst it may initially seem overwhelming, there are plenty of resources available online, including AddSecure’s free DVS guide, to ensure that every vehicle is on course to reach Vision Zero by 2041.”
