DVS Kits: A Guide to Selecting and Installing

Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is a safety initiative implemented by Transport for London (TfL) with the goal to enhance the safety of all road users, especially the more vulnerable such as cyclists and pedestrians. It stipulates minimum vision standards for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) operating in the Greater London area. 

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To meet these standards, operators of HGVs may require a DVS kit – an assortment of safety equipment installed in their vehicles. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide to selecting and installing those kits.
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Selecting the Right DVS Kit

The first step towards DVS compliance is selecting the right DVS kit for your vehicle. However, the process isn't as simple as it may seem, due to the variety of kits available and the different requirements based on the size and type of your vehicle.

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Vehicle Assessment: DVS ratings range from zero (lowest) to five (highest), with different requirements for each rating. To get the right kit, first, you need to understand your vehicle's current rating and the changes needed to meet the minimum required standard.

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Components of the Kit: A typical DVS kit includes a camera system, a sensor system, and an audible vehicle manoeuvring warning system. Some kits also include additional safety equipment such as warning signage and side under-run protection. The selection of components should align with the specific requirements of your vehicle.

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Quality and Certification: Always select a kit from a reputable manufacturer that adheres to industry standards. The kit should be certified to ensure it meets the necessary requirements.

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Installing the DVS Kit

Once you've selected the right DVS kit, the next step is installation. While it's possible to install some components yourself, it's recommended to use a professional installation service to ensure that everything is fitted correctly and safely.

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Professional Installation: Installation involves intricate wiring and calibration, which can be quite complex. A professional installer will have the necessary expertise to fit the equipment correctly, thereby ensuring its proper functioning.

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Location of Components: The positioning of cameras and sensors is crucial for their effectiveness. For example, the camera should provide the driver with a clear view of the blind spot area while sensors need to be positioned to detect objects in the vehicle's path.

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System Testing: Once the kit is installed, it's essential to test the system thoroughly. This ensures that all components are working correctly and that the driver is comfortable using the new equipment.

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Maintenance and Upgrades

Just as crucial as the initial selection and installation of the DVS kit is its ongoing maintenance. Regular checks are necessary to ensure that all components are functioning correctly. When a fault is identified, it must be repaired promptly to maintain compliance with DVS standards.

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Additionally, as safety technology evolves and DVS requirements potentially become more stringent, you may need to upgrade your DVS kit. Regularly reviewing your DVS compliance and keeping abreast of changes in regulations will help ensure that you stay ahead of the curve.

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The process of selecting and installing a DVS kit requires careful consideration of your vehicle's needs, the kit's components, and its installation. By choosing the right kit and ensuring its proper installation and maintenance, you can significantly enhance road safety and meet the necessary DVS standards. The effort invested in understanding and implementing these measures is not just about meeting regulatory requirements – it's about making our roads safer for everyone.

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Need your vehicles or fleet up to DVS spec? You need to contact Sentinel Systems today.