Applications for London HGV Safety Permits launched today (28 October 2019).
Operators will need to secure permits to continue to operate in London after the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) launches in October of next year.
All goods vehicles over 12 tonnes will need to have a permit to access the capital’s roads. Any vehicle that does not meet the scheme’s minimum one-star rating will need to address the requirements of the new Safe System to obtain one.
So what is DVS?
The Direct Vision Standard measures how much an HGV driver can see directly through their cab windows. This indicates the level of risk to vulnerable road users, such as people walking and cycling, near the vehicle.
The Direct Vision Standard and HGV Safety Permit for HGVs is part of the Mayor of London’s Vision Zero plan to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries on London’s transport network by 2041.
DVS requirements
From 26 October 2020, all HGVs more than 12 tonnes (GVW) entering or operating in Greater London will need to hold a valid HGV Safety Permit. The HGV Safety Permit scheme will cover Greater London and be in operation 24 hours a day, every day of the year. There is no charge for the HGV Safety permit.
Enforcement and penalties
From 26 October 2020, if you drive an HGV within Greater London without a valid permit, you may receive a penalty charge notice (PCN) of up to £550 (reduced to £275 if paid within 14 days). Permits can also be revoked or suspended if a vehicle that has been granted one, is subsequently found to be in breach of the permit terms.
Bolstering DVS with technological safety solutions
Combining fleet tracking solutions with multi-camera capability protects drivers and makes it easier to take full control of your fleet while reducing road risk. With a multi-camera solution, drivers are provided with live, in-cab video footage to increase awareness of what’s happening to, in, and around their vehicles at any given point in time.
