In a recent survey, a significant majority of RHA members expressed the urgent need for an extension to the current compliance grace period of London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS).
- From October, vehicles over 12 tonnes must meet a three-star DVS rating or incur fines in Greater London.
- 87% of RHA members seek a 12-month extension to adapt to the new DVS requirements.
- The RHA is actively engaging with Transport for London to negotiate an extended grace period, based on strong survey data.
- Concern over the potential fines and compliance costs highlights the industry’s call for immediate legislative adjustments.
In a significant development within the road haulage industry, a survey conducted by the Road Haulage Association (RHA) has shown that an overwhelming 87% of its members are demanding a 12-month extension to the compliance grace period for London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS). This standard, which will be enforced from the end of October, mandates that heavy goods vehicles exceeding 12 tonnes must meet a minimum three-star DVS rating to enter Greater London, or face substantial fines. The penalties for non-compliance can reach up to £550 per operator and £150 per driver, per vehicle, each day.
The survey, recently launched by the RHA, targeted all operators of HGVs servicing the London area. The results are described as ‘conclusive’, emphasising the need for an extension to the compliance deadlines. Richard Smith, Managing Director of the RHA, expressed gratitude to members for their participation and highlighted the ‘significant concern’ within the industry regarding the tight timeframe to retrofit trucks with compliant equipment.
Smith noted, ‘This is why we ran a second survey. We had a significant and representative response from the industry and our membership, consisting of large, medium, and small operators. Again, the results are conclusive, with 57% of respondents saying they’re not confident of being able to install compliant equipment in time, and 89% calling for the grace period to be extended by at least 12 months.’
The RHA is working collaboratively with partners and maintaining ongoing discussions with Transport for London (TfL) to ensure that firms have the necessary clarity and confidence to invest in essential safety equipment. The compelling survey data provides clear evidence to present to TfL and the Transport and Environment Committee (TEC) in support of extending the grace period.
Furthermore, the RHA, in collaboration with Loughborough University, has released a comprehensive DVS explainer document to better inform the operators about these regulations. This move aims to provide further clarity and facilitate compliance understanding across the industry.
The RHA’s concerted efforts and solid survey data aim to effectuate necessary legislative adjustments for the haulage industry.
