Everything You Need To Know About DVS Compliance

The DVS legislation, which is applicable to all heavy goods vehicles above 12 tonnes, establishes a star grading system on the measures taken to improve the vehicle’s safety aspects to vulnerable road users. It has been in effect since October 26 2020, but many companies still struggle to get to grips with the requirements. So, today, we’re covering what it is and how you can make your fleet DVS compliant.

What Is The Direct Vision Standard?

To determine the amount of risk to vulnerable road users, the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) analyses how effectively HGV drivers, entering Greater London, can see through their cab windows. They then assign a rating between 0 and 5 (with 5 being the highest), to that vehicle. To legally operate an HGV in Greater London, you must have a DVS rating of at least 1 – or you could be fined.

A penalty charge notice (PCN) of up to £550 may be issued if you operate an HGV inside Greater London without a valid permit. Think about the cost of that across your whole fleet, it’ll start to mount up very quickly. But, more than the fine, the DVS legislation is in place to protect road users, so by ignoring it, you’re actively putting people at greater risk of harm.

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How Do You Become DVS Compliant?

To apply for a permit as a zero star rated vehicle, you need to fit your vehicle with all the following safety equipment:

• Class V and VI mirrors
• A fully operational camera monitoring system
• A sensor system with driver alerts to warn road users of intended manoeuvres
• An audible vehicle manoeuvring warning for left turns (or right turns if the vehicle is left-hand drive)
• Warning signage
• Side-underrun protection to minimise the physical impact of a hazard

For further guidance from the TFL on how to apply follow this link.

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What Sort of Equipment Should You Invest In?

Sentinel Systems has a number of fully compliant products that adhere to the Direct Vision Standard and will help lower the risks for motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and your business.

Our extensive vehicle safety systems, including cameras and recording systems, as well as external alerters and sensors, we can help your company become fully DVS compliant. For instance, our Ultrasonic Sensor Kits and Left Turn Alarms make the perfect pairing for warning and protecting vulnerable road users and vehicle operators in tandem. Better still, we can fit any of our kit to almost any vehicle, so no matter your fleet needs, we have you covered.

Technology is crucial in vehicle operations today, as it is in many other aspects of life. We offer a wide variety of vehicle safety equipment. Don’t just stop at meeting the minimum DVS requirements. Go the extra mile and enhance your vehicle with full recording capabilities to ensure you are protected against insurance claims with HD video evidence. Aim higher, and get there with Sentinel Systems.

Want to check your whole fleet for DVS compliance, or do you need new equipment to get you there?

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Speak to Sentinel Systems today. We can help you.