What Is Direct Vision Standard (DVS)
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is a safety initiative introduced by Transport for London (TfL) aimed at reducing the risk of accidents involving heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in London. The primary focus of the DVS is to improve the direct visibility from the driver’s seat of HGVs, particularly concerning vulnerable road users such as cyclists, pedestrians, and motorcyclists.
The DVS operates by assigning star ratings to HGVs based on the level of direct vision available to the driver from the vehicle’s cab. These star ratings range from zero stars (indicating poor visibility) to five stars (indicating excellent visibility). The ratings are determined by assessing various factors, including the positioning of mirrors, window designs, and blind spots.
Vehicles that meet the minimum one-star DVS requirement are permitted to operate within Greater London. However, vehicles rated lower than one star are subject to additional safety measures or may be prohibited from entering the city under certain circumstances. For example, vehicles rated zero stars must be equipped with additional safety features, such as cameras and sensors, to mitigate their limited visibility.
The implementation of the DVS aims to enhance safety for all road users by reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by HGV blind spots. By encouraging the adoption of safer vehicle designs and technologies, the DVS seeks to improve overall road safety and contribute to TfL’s Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads by 2041.
Overall, the Direct Vision Standard represents a proactive approach to addressing the unique challenges posed by HGV blind spots in urban environments, with the ultimate goal of creating safer streets for everyone.
What is the Direct Vision Standard Progressive Safe System (PSS)?
The Progressive Safe System (PSS) is an enhanced version of the current DVS Safe System that fleet operators will need to install on their HGVs over 12T, so they can travel and operate legally within Greater London from 28th October 2024.
The new DVS Progressive Safe System shares the same purpose as the current system but boasts increased intelligence and sophistication. It aims to provide drivers with indirect vision and eliminate blind spots on the nearside of the vehicle. The key difference lies in its nearside detection system, also known as Blind Spot Information System (BSIS). This system can distinguish between stationary and moving objects, alerting the driver only when moving objects are detected. Additionally, the nearside camera monitoring system is required to completely eliminate blind spots on the nearside of both the vehicle and trailer. Finally, a front sensor detection system, known as Moving Off Information System (MOIS), needs to be fitted. Similar to the BSIS, it can distinguish between stationary and moving objects, alerting the driver only when moving objects are detected.
For more information and guidance please visit TfL website
Significance and Benefits:
The integration of these components into the DVS Progressive Safe System represents a comprehensive approach to improving road safety in urban environments. By addressing not only visibility but also proactive collision prevention measures and driver support systems, the Progressive Safe System significantly reduces the risk of accidents involving HGVs and enhances the safety of all road users.
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