The RHA said officials in London were set to extend the grace period for operators preparing for the forthcoming progressive safe system (PSS) to six months after intensive campaigning.

The new Direct Vision Standard (DVS) safety criteria is due to go live on 28 October for vehicles over 12 tonnes operating in London, but there are widespread concerns about the timescales and doubts over the availability and affordability of compliant kit.

The RHA urged TfL to extend the three-month grace period to fit the equipment and the business group said it had obtained an agreement for enforcement to commence from 4 May 2025.

It said TfL wanted hauliers to provide evidence that they had installation works arranged to fit the PSS but that this was scheduled for after 28 October.

Richard Smith, RHA MD, said: “We have collaborated extensively with the industry to better understand its challenges to be able to comply to a new standard with short timescales. Our most recent survey revealed that 57% of respondents said they weren’t confident of being able to install compliant equipment in time.”

“Now we’ve secured much-needed clarifications and a grace period extension the industry can now move forward to invest.”

“Meanwhile, we are also clear that road safety is everybody’s responsibility where all road users play their full part. We will continue to ensure that policymakers recognise and apply this important point.”

TfL was contacted for comment.

Written by Chris Tindall for Motor Transport © 19 July, 2024.

Discover more about our fleet and workshop management or contact us for a free demo.