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Direct Vision Standard (DVS)

What is Direct Vision Standard (DVS)?

The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) came into force in October 2020; a legislation that requires all goods vehicles weighing more than 12 tonnes to possess a permit to drive in Greater London.

Enforced by Transport for London (TfL), the permit is based on a vehicle’s ‘star rating’, indicating how much a driver can see from the cab in relation to other road users. The rating (0-5) is given on how the vehicle left the production line and will not take into account any aftermarket safety systems that have been fitted.

HGVs that do not meet the minimum star rating have to be equipped with a series of vehicle safety measures to improve and aid the driver’s indirect vision prior to applying for the permit. Non-compliant HGVs are banned from entering Greater London, with daily fines for both operators and drivers without permits.

HGVs that do not meet the minimum requirement of 1 star (3 stars from October 2024) need to comply with the Progressive Safe System (PSS) which requires the installation of extra devices for indirect vision (similar to FORS & CLOCS specifications) to alert drivers to vulnerable road users who are in a vehicle’s blind spot. Complying with the DVS Safe System will not alter the vehicle’s star rating but will permit you to drive into Greater London.

Direct Vision Standard (DVS) 

Where in London is it enforceable?

The Direct Vision Standard enforcement zone covers all of Greater London.

Our Direct Vision Standard (DVS) map below outlines the area of London where the regulation is in force and where permits are compulsory. Don’t forget this will apply to all vehicles weighing more than 12 tonnes, whether they are from the UK or travelling into London from overseas.

How long will the permit last?

Vehicle Star Rating

Permit Expiry

Certificate

0,1 & 2 (applying before June 2024) 27th Oct 2024 Will need to comply with the PSS requirements and re-apply
0,1 & 2 (applying from 24th June 2024) 28th Oct 2030 Will need to comply with the PSS requirements
3,4 & 5 28th Oct 2030 Can automatically apply

Enforcement

The scheme will be implemented by a decriminalised Traffic Regulation Order, meaning a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) can be issued. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras will detect a vehicle which will be checked with TfL’s permit database. All vehicles must have a permit, regardless of star rating. Operators/hauliers without a permit may be issued a PCN of £550 and £130 for the driver, even if the vehicle is five star rated.

The Safe System is evolving

The minimum star rating requirement for the Direct Vision Standard will increase from one to three stars in October 2024. This means that vehicles that fall short of the star rating will need to be equipped with extra safety equipment to obtain a permit. Previously the permit for extra equipment was called a safe permit.

Previously, the permit for extra equipment was called a Safe Permit but from October 2024 that will change and be known as the Progressive Safe System (PSS). The PSS requires the latest advancements in technology and will mean that some operators will need to replace their existing equipment with new technology.

Pre-October 2024

Vehicles Affected?

0 Star rated vehicles.

Requirements?

Fit a DVS Safe System in order to qualify for a permit.

Post October 2024

Vehicles Affected?

0, 1 and 2 star rated vehicles.

Requirements?

Fit a Progressive Safe System to qualify for a permit.

The Progressive Safe System includes new additions:

1. Active Side Sensor Systems that can:

2. Front Detection System or Moving Off Information System (MOIS) that requires:

Differentiate between moving and stationary objects.

Predict collisions “based on the trajectories of the vehicle and the vulnerable road user (VRU) to calculate if a collision is imminent.

Provide a specified alarm strategy to warn of the severity of the situation.

Two alarms; one when the driver detects a VRU when preparing to move off and one when the vehicle detects a VRU as it has begun its forward manoeuvre.

When the vehicle is stationary; the system must provide a signal to inform the driver of any VRU’s who are in or about to enter the critical blind spot in front of vehicle.

The collision warning must be a combination of at least two modes from an optical signal, acoustic or haptic.

How to apply for a DVS Permit

The permit is free of charge and there is no requirement to display anything in the vehicle. If you are unsure how to apply for a DVS Permit then continue reading below but if you are ready to submit an application, you can apply on the TfL website by following the link below.

Step 1

All HGVs need a star rating

All HGVs need a star rating which can only be obtained by contacting the manufacturer or by visiting tfl.gov.uk/direct-vision-permit. Alternatively, you can contact Brigade through this form. There is no published list available. The rating (0-5) will be based on how the vehicle left the production line and will not take into account any aftermarket safety systems that have been fitted.

  • If it is below three stars, see step 2
  • If it is three to five stars, see step 3

Step 2

If your HGV is below 3 stars.

Vehicles which are 0 star rated must comply with the DVS Safe System. From October 2024, all vehicles that are 0, 1 and 2 star rated must comply with the updated DVS Progressive Safe System, which requires the fitting of extra devices. Proof of installation must be supplied to TfL when you apply for your permit. It is also worth noting that if the vehicle is required on certain sites, the FORS and CLOCS specification may be enforced.

You must attach:

  • Visual Evidence
  • Sensor Functionality Statement

Step 3

HGVs that are 1-5 star rated

HGVs that are 1-5 star rated will automatically be eligible for a permit until October 2024, but will still need to apply.

  • For vehicles with a star rating of 1-2, your permit will be valid until 25th October 2024. After this date, 1 and 2 star rated vehicles will need to comply with the DVS Progressive Safe System and reapply for a permit. Proof of installation must be supplied to TFL with the application.
  • For vehicles with a star rating of 3-5, your permit will be valid until 25th October 2030 or 10 years (whichever is later).
  • Vehicles that have a 0 star rating, but have complied with the DVS Safe System, will be issued with a permit valid until 25th October 2024. After this date, 0 rated vehicles will need to update their devices in line with the new requirements of the DVS Progressive Safe System. Proof of installation must be supplied to TFL with the application.

    Evidence needed to comply with the PSS

    Provide two photographs to show you have fitted the PSS equipment

    Photo 1

    Must show the front and nearside of the HGV showing the front number plate.

    Photo 2

    Must show the rear and nearside of the vehicle including the rear number plate.

    Sensor Functionality Statement

    The PSS sets out specific test procedures and it is the responsibility of the DVS equipment manufacturer to confirm that products meet the requirements via a ‘sensor functionality statement.’ This should include details of how the products link with other systems and confirmation that they do not adversely affect any safety critical aspects or performance of the vehicle. If a product has an E-mark it will meet these requirements.

    The document will need to be uploaded by the operator. If there are any non-compliance issues identified at a later date, it will be easily identified from the manufacturer used. Fitters will also need to confirm that the sensors fitted to the vehicle are active and fitted in compliance with the technical PSS specification.

    Brigade Service Partners are professional auto electricians that are trained and approved to fit Brigade equipment.

    How do I find my DVS Star Rating?

    Vehicle operators need to contact their vehicle manufacturer to find out what their DVS star rating is. There is currently no published list available. Operators will need the VIN number of the HGV to hand.
    Manufacturer Email/Online Form
    DAF [email protected]
    Dennis Eagle www.dennis-eagle.co.uk/USV
    MAN [email protected]
    Renault [email protected]
    Scania [email protected]
    Volvo [email protected]
    Mercedes-Benz [email protected]
    Iveco [email protected]
    If the vehicle has 0 stars the operator will need to meet the requirements of the DVS Safe System to be eligible for the permit. From October 2024, all vehicles rated 0, 1 and 2 stars will need to comply with the DVS Progressive Safe System, which requires vehicles to be fitted with certain devices. A full breakdown of the devices required to meet these conditions is below.

    If you are unsure what your DVS star rating is or whether you comply, Brigade offers a free DVS star rating service to obtain that information for you.

    Simply provide us with your vehicle manufacturer, vehicle type, registration and chassis number and let Brigade take care of the rest.

    What to do if your vehicle is

    0, 1 or 2 star rated

    Get ready for the DVS Progressive Safe System changes!

    Since DVS was introduced, all 0 rated vehicles have had to comply with the DVS Safe System in order to qualify for a permit. However, from October 2024 this will be changing. All vehicles rated 0, 1 and 2 stars will now need to comply and update their vehicles with the new DVS Progressive Safe System requirements.

    What are the current requirements for the DVS Safe System?

    If your vehicle is 0 star rated, you must comply with the requirements of the DVS Safe System. This is a series of vehicle safety measures which aim to improve the overall safety of the HGV and aid indirect vision. Complying with the DVS Safe System will not alter a vehicle’s star rating, but it will permit it to be driven in Greater London.

    Here at Brigade, we have created a specially compiled DVS Safe System kit to help streamline the process for companies. These kits, which come in two different types (one for rigid vehicles and one for articulated vehicles) include side cameras,ultrasonic sensors for the near side of the vehicle and awarning alarm, which is activated when the vehicle is turning. Both kits are compliant with the Direct Vision Standard as well as all relevant regional laws across the EU, meaning fleet operators can be confident that the systems will meet all necessary legal requirements.

    The following devices are required to comply with the current DVS Safe System:

    • Class V mirror fitted to the nearside of the vehicle
    • Class VI mirror fitted to the front of the vehicle
    • Side under-run protection fitted to both sides of the vehicle except where this is impractical or proves to be impossible. See TfL website for exemptions.
    • External pictorial stickers and markings shall we displayed on vehicles to warn vulnerable road users of the hazards around the vehicle
    • A sensor system that alerts the driver to the presence of a vulnerable road user fitted to the nearside of the vehicle
    • Audible vehicle manoeuvring warning to warn vulnerable road users when a vehicle is turning left
    • A fully operational camera monitoring system fitted to the nearside of the vehicle

    If your vehicle already complies with FORS Silver, it will meet the requirements of the DVS Safe System. Here is a look at some of the major differences between FORS and DVS.

    If you would like to find out more about Brigade’s DVS Safe System kit, please visit our product page.

    How Brigade can help

    Brigade Electronics has a range of products to help operators meet the requirements of various specifications including the Progressive Safe System (PSS) for the Direct Vision Standard (DVS). Brigade’s team of experts works closely with road safety associations and charities to provide the best and most up-to-date advice. Interpreting various specifications and understanding the terminology can be a minefield for operators. For example, references to ‘shall’, ‘should’ and ‘may’ in the Direct Vision Standard depict whether a requirement is mandatory, recommended or permitted and transport managers can be left confused.

    Brigade has provided advice to many OEM and OES suppliers and continues to work with the aftermarket to make sure that vehicles are compliant. In this role, Brigade also ensures products are fitted to maximise their safety potential.

    For a free no obligation consultation on the Direct Vision Standard, please contact us for an appointment.

    DVS Frequently Asked Questions

    Q. What products are required for a vehicle to meet a 1 star rating?

    Fitting a product will not allow you to gain a star rating as this is based on direct vision alone and cannot change once vehicle has left the manufacturer.

    Q. Do I need all of the DVS requirements in order to be granted a permit if I have a 0, 1 or 2 star rated vehicle?

    Yes, these include camera monitor system, sensors, audible warning alarm and a warning sticker.

    Brigade has created a specially compiled Safe System Kit for operators. To find out more about our kits, please visit our DVS Safe System product page.

     

    Q. What are the fundamental differences between a ‘safe system’ and a ‘progressive safe system'?
    The safe system combines technologies widely seen in specs such as FORS and CLOCS. This includes sensors, camera monitor systems and audible warnings.

    In February 2023, TfL consulted on the requirements of the DVS Progressive Safe System and these improvements will be published in summer 2023. From October 2024, all vehicles rated 0, 1 and 2 stars will need to comply with the DVS Progressive Safe System. It is proposed that this will include sensors on rigid vehicles that do not activate in relation to roadside furniture or stationary vehicles, sensors for articulated vehicles that must ensure full coverage of the nearside of the tractor unit and semi-trailer and a Moving Off Information System (MOIS) or front-detection system.

    Q. If a truck meets DVS Star rating 3 or above, will FORS and CLOCS still demand camera systems? Or would they recognise the DVS Standards instead?
    Statement from FORS: “We became aware of the DVS standards some time ago, so we were able to prepare FORS Standard Version 5 to include the following statement in requirement S6 (Vehicle Safety Equipment) –

    “Where the driver has a full view of the nearside blind spot area by direct vision, such as a left-hand drive vehicle, the camera system and in-cab display screen are not required”.

    “However, as a national scheme it’s important we don’t impose DVS standards on all operators across the UK so we’ll maintain the current requirement for vehicle safety equipment as per requirement S6. If the DVS rating proves to deliver the same level of safety then it will be an acceptable alternative”.

    Brigade works closely with FORS and contributes to their working group which considers new legislative and technological developments. FORS is planning to align its specifications to accommodate this and an updated FORS spec will be released later in the year.

    Q. If we purchase a new vehicle later this year or next year will the vehicle be fitted to the DVS requirements?
    If you buy a vehicle that has a star rating of 1 or above, you will not need to fit devices for indirect vision to meet DVS requirements currently. However, the star rating will increase to 3 stars in 2024 and all vehicles rated 0, 1 or 2 stars will need to comply with the DVS Progressive Safe System. DAF currently line fits devices for indirect vision on its CF models to meet the safe permit requirements.
    Q. Do 12t vehicles need to apply for a DVS permit?
    No, vehicles under 12 tonnes are not required to apply for a permit.
    Q. Which level of FORS offers the same as the DVS requirement – Bronze, Silver, Gold?
    FORS Bronze does not for vehicles operating in Greater London only. FORS Silver is a higher spec than DVS.

    Under current requirements, if you have FORS silver you meet the DVS safe permit. Under new proposals the schemes will require different products. FORS will be reviewed following release of the final DVS specification.

    Product

    Q. Does MirrorCam count as direct vision?
    No, the Mirror cam is a device for indirect vision and will not meet compliance for direct vision or the safe permit.
    Q. If an operator of a Renault Premium truck fits a lower door glass to the nearside door, will that suffice to qualify for a star rating?
    No. If it is a 0 star rating the operator will need to fit the safe permit. The glass panel neither changes the star rating nor contributes to the safe system.

    The spec mentions that there is a manual switch to enable the audible sound warning to be turned off during “night” hours – how do you ensure that this is turned back on again?

    There are two options: a latched switch that means if you press the button it will mute until you push it again or rotate the ignition. Or a timer relay which will mute for between three or four minutes when the driver pushes it and it will automatically reset to the on position after that time.

    Q. What changes, if any, are required to the trailer? It appears that this is limited to warning labels only.
    Sensors are not required on the trailer. However, under current proposals operators will be required to fit sensor systems to cover trailers.
    Q. Does the nearside camera require an MDR device as well?

    Digital recording is not mandatory for DVS.

    Q. Would all trailers be required to have the sticker for articulated vehicles?
    Yes. Tractors for articulated vehicles are exempt from the warning signage but all trailers used with the tractor unit will be required to fit the stickers. This means for operators who use multiple trailers, they will be required to apply the stickers to each trailer.

    From October 2024, it is proposed that a full coverage sensor system will also be required. These changes will be confirmed in summer 2023.

    Q. Does the camera monitor have to be on permanently? Is it ok to use the vehicle's built in dash monitor, automatically switched on when signalling?
    Camera systems are for low-speed manoeuvring. They can be triggered by the left turn indicator and can automatically switch off at speeds of 20 mph.

    Fines

    Q. It’s mentioned that both the operator and driver would be liable for a fine? £550 reduced to £225 if paid within 14 days. What would the driver be fined?
    The driver would be fined £130 per day also reduced by half if paid within 14 days.

    International

    Q. What is happening internationally about vehicle safety?
    Vehicle safety is a hot topic across the world right now. In Europe, the General Safety Regulation will came into force in 2022. All vehicles including; cars, vans, lorries and buses sold in Europe will be fitted as standard with a range of new vehicle safety features, including reversing and front detection systems, driver monitoring and event data recorders.

    In Germany, the government has been providing incentives for operators who fit a package of safety systems similar to that required by DVS. Around the world similar mandatory requirements for blind spot elimination will come into effect from 2024 with detection ranges varying.

    Q. Does the panel expect the DVS standards to filter down to vehicles below 12t and above 3.5t, and potentially to LCVs in the future?
    The DVS standard may not affect vehicles below 12 tonnes, but new European legislation came into force in 2022 that required devices for indirect vision to be fitted as standard.
    Q. Our company has UK registered left hand drive trucks. Some are less than one year old and have all the required mirrors fitted, but still have 0 star rating according to the manufacturer.
    You need to contact the manufacturer to obtain the star rating or contact Brigade who provide a free service. If the star rating is 0, 1 or 2 you will need to obtain a safety permit. Fitting devices for the safe permit will not increase your star rating but will allow you to drive into Greater London.

    Foreign registered trucks entering London will still need to apply for a permit or risk being fined.

    Q. Where does product need to be fitted for left hand drive vehicles?
    For left hand drive vehicles, mirrors, cameras and sensors should be fitted appropriately to account for the blind spot on the far right of the vehicle. A right turn audible alarm should also be fitted.

    Miscellaneous

    Q. Is there a case for cycle lanes to be moved to the middle of the road therefore putting them on the driver’s side and in maximum viewing proximity?
    The government has announced a £2 billion project to increase cycling and walking so this may be one of the considerations.
    Q. Is it common to fit audible turning warning to the N/S and the O/S? Turning right as well as left?otentially to LCVs in the future?

    It is not required under DVS or FORS/CLOCs and although it is not common, some forward-thinking operators do. It is required on left-hand drive vehicles.

    Q. Do PMI sheets need to be amended to include sensor operation etc?

    This is down to the individual operator to decide, but we would recommend that the sensors are checked regularly and maintained e.g. kept clean.

    Q. Are any other cities taking up the DVS Scheme?
    Not yet.
    Q. Will the over 12t requirement lead to an increase in vehicles at 11.99t GVW?
    We don’t believe so. Many vehicles are now required to meet standards such as FORS or CLOCS and may already comply. Fitting vehicle safety devices is now commonplace to reduce insurance premiums, improve safety and reduce work related road risk.
    Q. If operators hire a rental vehicle short term will these need to have the DVS safe system fitted or would there be a short-term period where its not required, e.g. for hires over 28 days?

    No there is no exemption for hire vehicles.

    Driver Overload

    Six mirrors, a video screen in the cab with multiple images, a window in the lower door, plus light/audible warnings inside the cab. The driver has one pair of eyes and research shows it takes around a second to look in a mirror, focus on and interpret the image, so is anything going to be done about driver overload?

    The trouble with direct vision alone is that if the driver is not looking they will not see. A combination of active and passive systems alerts the driver to look in their mirrors or camera system when there is something in their danger zone and eliminate the risk of driver error. This prevents the driver from constantly looking in their mirrors. The sensor system only alerts during low speed manoeuvring so it does not distract the driver at higher speeds. Systems such as Brigade’s Backeye 360 take four camera images and sew them into one birds-eye view so the driver has fewer images to process.

    Motor Transport’s webinar, in partnership with Brigade Electronics, explored key questions and gave operators the opportunity to hear from a panel of experts on the topic.

    • Is the Direct Vision Standard the best way to go about reducing death and serious injuries on London’s roads?
    • What are operators’ options? What does a 1 star rating look like?
    • What is a DVS Safe System and how much does it cost?
    • By 2024 vehicles will need a 3 star rating so what is the most cost effective option in both the short and medium term?

    The debate was hosted by MT editor Steve Hobson and featured key industry speakers and leading operators.

    The webinar can be found below: