Logistics UK chief calls out TfL’s negative portrayal of industry

Last week TfL issued a press release concerning the launch of the Direct Vision Standard (DVS), which made several references to “dangerous lorries”. Wells said that while the fitment of additional equipment may bring enhanced safety benefits, it is simply wrong to describe vehicles without it as “dangerous”.

In his letter, Wells points out that HGVs are designed to conform to UN and EU standards and are type approved in the UK by the Vehicle Certification Agency. Their ongoing roadworthiness is heavily regulated under operator licensing, with requirements for regular safety inspections as well as annual tests from new. This regulatory framework is policed by DVSA and ultimately presided over by the Traffic Commissioners; whose remit is to ensure the safety of goods vehicles in all areas of operation.

“The logistics industry remains committed to road safety," Wells said in his letter. "We support the Mayor’s Vision Zero approach: death and serious injury on our roads is neither acceptable nor inevitable. Consequently, our members have already invested in vehicle technology, driver training and public road safety education. Logistics UK has worked closely and constructively with TfL throughout the development of DVS and we want to foster a positive ongoing relationship.”

Wells’ letter concluded by asking the Commissioner to set out the steps TfL plans to remedy its public portrayal of HGVs and the vital work that the logistics industry does to enable the capital to function efficiently every day.

*www.logistics.org.uk/campaigns/urban-logistics

Published On: 11/03/2021 17:00:08

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