DVS will not achieve zero harm by 2041, according to FTA

Friday 26 April 2019

 

Implementation of the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is not the right way to work towards the Mayor of London’s vision of zero vehicular harm by 2041, according to FTA. Reacting to the launch of the final statutory consultation on the DVS, FTA is calling on the Mayor to realise that the future of road safety will be delivered through technological innovation and internationally-agreed vehicle design.

Natalie Chapman, Head of Urban Policy at FTA, the organisation representing the interests of the logistics sector, commented: “While the updated proposals for DVS are more workable for operators then earlier versions, it remains true that technological development and design standards for new vehicles – which would be best set at an international level – would provide a robust, long-term solution for road safety. FTA is calling on the Mayor to realise the value this would provide and commit to focussing on new vehicle technologies to fast-track zero vehicular harm in the capital.

“FTA fully supports the Mayor of London’s zero harm ambition; the freight industry takes road safety extremely seriously. FTA has been working closely with TfL throughout the development of DVS and is very pleased to see that many of our practical concerns about the scheme have been taken on board.  For example, TfL has committed to consulting with operators on the progressive safe system at least two years before the 2024 start date to ensure industry has sufficient notice. Furthermore, the body has removed the mandatory training requirement, instead, it will simply suggest and sign post appropriate training on the TfL website.

“That said, Sadiq Khan seems determined to focus on visibility from the cab, which has limited benefits, when it is new technology that will deliver far greater and more ongoing safety improvements.”

Under TfL’s DVS proposals, from October next year, every truck over 12 tonnes will be required to have a permit to access the capital.  TfL has developed a five-star rating system for the amount of direct vision an HGV has.  Those which meet the one-star rating will be automatically eligible for a permit.  However, those which are zero-star rated will need to prove that they meet the requirements of the new “safe system” in order to obtain a permit.

Efficient logistics is vital to keep Britain trading, directly having an impact on more than seven million people employed in the making, selling and moving of goods.  With Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc.  A champion and challenger, FTA speaks to Government with one voice on behalf of the whole sector, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers.