Navigating DVS can be a complicated process, at Simplytrak we are here to help HGV Operators in your understanding, as well as provide DVS and PSS systems to ensure your compliance with regulations.
The best way to start with DVS, is to firstly get an understanding of what it is, and the systems required in order to comply:
Since 26th October 2020, all goods vehicles over 12 tonnes require a DVS (Direct Vision Standard) permit to drive into Greater London, including vehicles from outside the UK.
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 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 to alert drivers to vulnerable road users who are in a vehicle’s blind spot. Installing a DVS System will not alter a HGV’s star rating but will permit you to drive into Greater London.
To apply for a DVS permit, visit: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/dvs-safety-permit-application/
The Direct Vision Standard and HGV Safety Permit Scheme are part of the Mayor of London’s Vision Zero plan to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries on London’s transport network by 2041. The second phase of Vision Zero begins in 2024 and is the next step to make London’s roads safer.
Currently, vehicles which are 0-star rated must comply with the DVS Safe System. From 28th October 2024, all 0, 1, and 2-star rated vehicles must comply with the improved DVS Progressive Safe System (PSS). The PSS requires the latest technological advancements and will mean that some operators will need to replace their existing equipment with new technology.
· 1 x AI MOIS Forward Facing Camera
· 2 x AI BSIS Side Cameras
· 1 x Central Led Display
· 1 x Pillar Led Display
· 1 x External Left Turn Speaker
· 1 x Left Turn Mute Button
· 1 x Blind Spot Information Sticker
For a full in-depth guide on DVS requirements, visit: https://content.tfl.gov.uk/tfl-dvs-guidance-for-operators-2023-acc.pdf
If you need help with your DVS or PSS systems prior to the 28th October deadline, we are ready to provide the assistance you need.
Simplytrak have created a modular DVS system creating full compliance at an affordable price. This not only meets all regulations for the next stage, but also allows for upgrading as future strengthening of the rules come into force in the coming years.
· We install all kit at your premises and/or convenience.
· We commission and test.
· We warranty all equipment.
· We advise on compliance and help you all the way.
If you need any further information or help, get in touch with us.
Hello Isaac, welcome to the Simplytrak team!
Firstly, can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?
I’m originally from Canada however I moved to the UK with my family in July 2023. My career background has been in photography, videography as well as technology innovation.
What attracted you to the role and made you want to come and work at Simplytrak?
I have worked in various companies alike and I believe the skills I attain are a great asset for this role. The technology industry has always piqued my interest due to the constant evolving and excitement with what comes next.
So, what does your role at Simplytrak consist of?
As the Product Support Operator, I assist with new hardware set ups and troubleshooting for our customers. I am dedicated to delivering top-quality products and exceptional customer service.
What do you like so far about working at Simplytrak?
The atmosphere in the office with the team is fantastic. It’s great to be surrounded by like-minded people who all thrive to achieve the same goals for Simplytrak.
What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
Mostly I’m looking forward to broadening my experience in this industry, learning all the ins and outs, to better serve the company and customers.
Thank you, Isaac.
You are smashing it!
Direct Vision Standard 2024
From October 2024, all vehicles rated 0, 1 or 2 star will need to be fitted with the new Progressive Safe System recommended by the Transport for London.
The Direct Vision Standard was developed by the Mayor of London as part of his Vision Zero initiative to ultimately eliminate all deaths and serious injuries on London’s transport network. An enhancement has been made to the current DVS Safe System with the introduction of the Progressive Safe System, PSS, from October 2024.
Over a 3 year period in inner London, 70% of cyclists fatalities were caused due to HGV’s poor vision. Since 2019, fatal collisions involving HGVS where vision was a contributing factor has halved. To further improve the safety of all road users, HGVs over 12 tonnes will need to have a minimum of three-star rating to operate in Greater London. Although currently you only need a one star to obtain a DVS safety permit, this will rise and by October 2024 you will need to update your vehicles.
How can Simplytrak help?
Simplytraks safe system kit can improve driver’s direct vision from a vehicles cab with our full range of vehicle solutions.
DVS Safe System Includes:
Contact a member of our team if you want to hear more options on how we can help or are struggling with the new regulations.
Please call us at Tel: +44 (0)1430 879197 or email our team at enquiries@simplytrak.com
The recent fatal runway crash between a fire truck and an airplane at Peru’s busiest airport has put a spotlight on runway safety yet again. Especially with the holiday season coming up. While the average of 700 runway incursion yearly might not seem high – any collision can be fatal.
Two firefighters died after the Latam Airlines jet collided with the truck at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. No passengers or crew were killed. Latam’s CEO said the flight had been cleared for take-off, but the airport has now said a routine drill was being carried out by the fire services.
Simplytrak is well-known for providing safety and security telematics solutions across industries. The company counts Wickes, Bigfoot Logistics and Practical Car & Van Rental among its telematics clients benefitting from Simplytrak’s tracking and camera solutions.
AIM: Airside Incursion Mitigation is Simplytrak’s solution for the aviation sector. It was developed with the UK’s fastest-growing airport, Doncaster Sheffield Airport, and is now being used across the UK. Indeed, when presented to the UK Civil Aviation Authority, their response was that AIM would be a “significant benefit to any airport”.
“Since installing our safety telematics solution in runway vehicles, the incursion rate has been reduced to zero,” says Ian Wood, Managing Director. “Runway incursions could be vehicles, pedestrians or other obstacles on the runway.”
There are on average 700 runway incursions every year across airports, keeping runway incursions on the Significant Seven key risk areas in the aviation sector (CAA).
Findings from incident and accident reports have been used to determine the new recommendations and associated guidance materials contained in the European Action Plan for the Prevention of Runway Incursions.
Runway incursions are a serious issue every day across airports in the European region. Bespoke to each airport layout, the AIM system includes visible and audible in-cab warnings and switches automatically to the new incursion boundaries in case of LVP (Low Visibility Procedures).
“Installed in all airside vehicles, AIM requires no external communications to alert drivers to potential incursion risks,” says Wood. “This effectively eliminates the risk of incursions from whatever the weather or light conditions. Air Traffic Control can also have full visibility of the actual locations of airside vehicles. AIM is not reliant on mobile networks either. With its innovative design, the in-cab device alerts the driver first and then transmits its data to our cloud-based software platform.”
AIM is currently used at airports including Doncaster Sheffield, Durham Tees Valley, Exeter, and Cork. The feedback has been fantastic.
“Since installing Airside Incursion Mitigation (AIM) to all prime fleet engaged in movement area activities, runway safety has improved significantly with a runway incursion rate for airport vehicles reduced to zero,” said Keith Moran, Director of Operations, Doncaster Sheffield Airport. “Added benefits or real time fleet management and tracking are essential to audits and quality assurance. I highly recommend this as key driver in mitigation and risk to an effective safety system to any airport operator.”
Looking ahead, Simplytrak has ambitious plans for the further roll-out of AIM. Earlier this year Simplytrak sponsored the British-Irish Airports EXPO to meet with industry professionals and government decision-makers. Using these conversations as a sounding board AIM plans to create more brand awareness and test the water regarding other UK airports before expansion into Europe, then gaining traction before promoting internationally.
To find out more about AIM, please contact us today.
On the 10th of October, the World Health Organisation annually recognises World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme is ‘make mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority.’ Mental health in our personal and working lives is crucial for personal and business success and we put great emphasis on our team members’ well-being here at Simplytrak.
Simplytrak prides itself on the people culture we have implemented for all our employees and into our day-to-day working life. We are honest, caring and great listeners to one another. When we have a hard day at work we know our team will be supportive to push you to do your best.
Our founders, Alison and Andrew Johnson have prioritised mental health in the workplace through our culture. More importantly, they’ve asked members of our team to come forward if they wanted to qualify as mental health ambassadors. They’ve also put into place HR mental health processes and policies to reinforce the successful culture we have. Their “aim is to create a culture where people can work together well, feel motivated and thrive.”
The importance of prioritising mental health in a business just makes sense. Our founders say “when our team’s mental (as well as physical) needs are covered and they are in a happy and productive environment, job satisfaction and productivity levels are high. Simplytrak cares for many clients, but we also know that we need to start by taking care of ourselves and those around us to build that successful relationship with clients.”
Hailey Fryatt, office administrator and mental health ambassador, says ‘it’s important for people to know it’s okay to not be okay.’ Likewise Fiona Downie, fellow ambassador for mental health, comments that ‘having a support network within the business gives employees the opportunity to talk to someone who can be impartial and not necessarily in their day-to-day work lives, hopefully making it easier for people to reach out.’
To further emphasise Simplytrak’s commitment to mental health, our chosen charity of the year is Andy’s Man Club, a men’s suicide prevention charity. They offer peer to peer support groups across the United Kingdom with an aim to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.
We hope everyone at Simplytrak feels like they can take some time to themselves and ask their team members how they feel to make sure they’re ok.
Hey Tonicha! Congratulations on starting your new role.
I started working here in April 2021, so more than a year ago now!
It looked like a role I could see myself doing and I could see a lot of opportunity for progression within the company. Simplytrak had so many factors that I love about it and I could see myself fitting in really well.
More responsibility and being even busier! I love constantly having something on the go, and working with new people in the team. As much as I do work with everybody, there are some people I currently work closer with than others, so it will be great to work closer with other members of the team.
The new role I’m going into as Account Manager will be a lot more client based, so working purely with clients rather than our engineers like I do now. I’ll be going out on the road and meeting with them, sorting out all of their accounts. Currently I’m booking in their jobs and getting everything organised day to day, rather than general client management.
Definitely the team I work with, we all get on so well so it’s a privilege to work with them all. Also building relationships with clients and engineers, you don’t feel like you’re working, it’s like you’re chatting with friends all day. I also love how busy I am, I thrive being constantly on the go and there’s always something to do, always something to improve or help people with.
Definitely the team, everyone is willing to help. We always have a laugh and a joke too! As much as you can be hard at work, it’s easy just to have a little catch up and chat. If your workload is hectic everyone is willing to jump in and help. Also, just the company in general – there are loads of benefits to working here like the share option scheme and company days out.
Time management – using your diary to the fullest! I never really used to use a diary, but now using it to book everything in or setting myself blocks out to work on certain things ensures I can prioritise certain tasks. Being a lot more client focused too, I would say that’s definitely a skill to have, to approach people in difficult situations.
We’ve expanded massively since I joined in April 2021. We have a lot more clients now and in terms of products we’re a lot more established. We’re also attending a lot more events such as the British-Irish Airports Expo coming up on 22-23rd June!
Everyone in our team inspires me. There’s so many different aspects of everyone that inspire me, so I couldn’t really choose a specific person.
We have lots of things in store so keep your eyes peeled!
Thanks Tonicha, we can’t wait to see what’s coming up!