Authorities in London have decided to extend the compliance grace period for the Progressive Safe System (PSS) to six months.
- The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) safety criteria, set to start on 28 October, faces concerns regarding the time allowed for implementation.
- Transport for London (TfL) will now enforce the new standards from 4 May 2025, giving operators more time to comply.
- A survey revealed more than half of operators doubted their ability to fit the required equipment in time.
- Transport bodies continue to advocate for further compliance extensions amid ongoing challenges in the industry.
In a move that offers relief to the transport sector, officials in London have extended the grace period for the implementation of the Progressive Safe System (PSS) by six months. This decision follows significant lobbying efforts and is set to affect operators preparing for the updated Direct Vision Standard (DVS), due to be enforced on 28 October.
The Direct Vision Standard, aimed at enhancing road safety, has raised widespread concern among vehicle operators over the short timeline initially provided for compliance. Many operators expressed doubt over their capacity to equip their fleet with the necessary systems promptly, citing availability and cost issues. Transport for London’s decision to delay enforcement until 4 May 2025, provides a buffer for operators to address these challenges.
Richard Smith, Managing Director of the Road Haulage Association, highlighted the industry’s struggles, noting that fifty-seven percent of survey respondents lacked confidence in meeting the October deadline. “We have secured much-needed clarifications and a grace period extension, which allows the industry to proceed with necessary investments,” he stated. Smith also emphasised the collective responsibility for road safety.
Despite the extension, not all operators are equally relieved. Smaller hauliers, in particular, continue to face bottlenecks. Transport for London has pledged to accelerate permit applications for larger fleets—specifically those exceeding 100 trucks—thereby giving them a more straightforward path to compliance. However, this measure does little to assist smaller operators, who remain entangled in procedural delays.
While the extension alleviates some pressure, an overwhelming majority of Road Haulage Association members have voiced the need for a further twelve-month extension, reflecting ongoing concerns regarding feasibility and preparedness. Advocacy for longer compliance periods continues, underscoring the complexity and challenges inherent in implementing such comprehensive safety standards.
The extension provides temporary relief, but further advocacy and adjustments may be necessary to fully meet the industry’s needs.
