DVS (Direct vision standard)

Developed as a part of the Mayor of London’s Vision Zero for London scheme, the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) measures how well HGV drivers can see directly through their cab windows, to indicate the risk level to “vulnerable road users” such as cyclists and pedestrians close to the vehicle. It requires all lorries over 12 tonnes to have a safety permit for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in order to operate in the Greater London area.

From March 2021 (at the earliest), all vehicle operators will need to have this safety permit, or risk a £550 fine each time you’re found to be non-compliant. The DVS will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will be monitored and recorded on ANPR cameras that will digitally capture the license plate registration of each vehicle operating throughout Greater London and instantly check them against a database of records, where the vehicle will then be issued with a £550 fine.

This means that businesses need to begin preparing for March as soon as possible: to get all their vehicles submitted for a safety permit, receive the minimum star rating and ensure their vehicles have the necessary “safety system” measures if required.