Operators must prepare for London’s DVS changes or face significant fines.
- From October, HGVs over 12 tonnes need a minimum three-star DVS rating to enter Greater London.
- Those with lower ratings require the progressive safe system (PSS) to avoid penalties.
- Failure to comply could result in £550 fines per operator and £150 per driver daily.
- The situation demands immediate action to prevent business disruption.
From the end of October, there will be a mandatory requirement for HGVs over 12 tonnes to possess at least a three-star Direct Vision Standard (DVS) rating to enter Greater London. For vehicles that are ranked below this threshold, additional safety enhancements, termed the Progressive Safe System (PSS), will become necessary to avert penalties.
Should operators fail to adjust their fleets accordingly, they risk incurring substantial financial penalties, highlighted by potential fines reaching £550 for operators and £150 for drivers, per vehicle, on a daily basis. This underscores the pressing need for compliance within the stipulated timeline.
David Dimbleby, the commercial director at Digraph, noted the looming deadline for PSS compliance announced back in June 2023 might have gone unnoticed by some HGV operators. He succinctly stated, “With the new rules announced back in June 2023, HGV operators could be forgiven if the deadline for PSS compliance has snuck up on them.” However, the consequences of non-compliance extend beyond fines, potentially leading to loss of business due to the downtime required for fleet upgrades.
In an attempt to assist operators in meeting these new regulatory measures, a collaborative effort by Motor Transport and Brigade Electronics will see the hosting of a complimentary, half-day DVS roadshow in Twickenham. This event, scheduled for 19 June, aims to provide comprehensive guidance on adhering to these stipulations.
Additionally, the Road Haulage Association (RHA) has raised concerns on behalf of its members, with a survey indicating that 87% require a 12-month extension to the compliance grace period. This reflects the significant confusion and unreadiness amongst operators concerning Transport for London’s stringent upcoming standards.
Operators must urgently act to ensure compliance with London’s evolving DVS requirements, safeguarding against severe penalties and operational setbacks.
