When it comes to vehicle safety, especially for heavy goods vehicles (HGV) over 12 tonnes, the right technology makes all the difference. You might be familiar with the New Mandatory Requirements (Progressive Safe System), which play a critical role in protecting vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians. But what are the PSS safety requirements for vehicles over 12 tonnes, and how does that work in practice?
Key Dates: DVS Phase 1 vs. Phase 2
For vehicles rated with zero, one, or two stars under the Direct Vision Standard (DVS), it’s important to be aware of upcoming deadlines related to PSS compliance. Vehicles that are not yet equipped with Phase Two DVS will remain eligible for a DVS Phase 1 permit until October 27, 2024. After this date, only vehicles that meet the Phase Two DVS (PSS) requirements will be eligible to apply for a safety permit.
This means that fleet operators have until this deadline to ensure that their vehicles are upgraded to meet the new safety standards. Applications for Phase 1 permits can still be submitted online, but those permits will expire on October 27, 2024.
More specific information can be found at https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/deliveries-in-london/delivering-safely/direct-vision-in-heavy-goods-vehicles
PSS technology requirements for vehicles above 12 tonnes
Camera Monitoring System (CMS)
The camera monitoring system is one of the fundamental elements of PSS. It consists of an in-cab monitor (at least 7 inches in size) paired with a blindside mounted camera on the nearside of the vehicle. This setup offers the driver an unobstructed view of the vehicle’s nearside, greatly improving visibility and reducing the risk of collisions with cyclists or pedestrians.
Interestingly, CMS can be used in addition to Class V and VI mirrors, providing a modern, high-resolution image feed that enhances situational awareness. By removing blind spots, this system acts as a proactive safety tool, preventing accidents by giving drivers a clear understanding of their surroundings.
Blind Spot Information System (BSIS)
Blind spots are a significant hazard, especially in larger vehicles. The Blind Spot Information System can use AI cameras or radar to detect vulnerable road users (VRU) in a defined area along the nearside of the vehicle. The system must cover an area of 9 metres by 2.2 metres and should only audibly alert if either a VRU or vehicle is turning or changing course and likely to collide.
BSIS is designed to minimise false alarms. The system’s focus is to provide alerts only in situations where a collision with a vulnerable road user is imminent, ensuring that the driver’s attention is directed to real hazards rather than unnecessary noise.
Moving Off Information System (MOIS)
The Moving Off Information System (MOIS) is a safety feature aimed at reducing risks when a vehicle begins to move from a stationary position. This system, using AI cameras or radar, monitors the area directly in front of the vehicle, providing at least 2 metres of forward coverage and extending 0.5 metres from each front corner.
This system detects VRU in front of the vehicle when it begins to move, sounding an alert if a potential collision is detected. Like BSIS, MOIS is engineered to reduce unnecessary alerts; it remains inactive when the vehicle is stationary and only activates when forward movement towards a VRU is detected.
Left Turn Alarm (Or Right Turn Alarm for Left-hand Drive Vehicles)
A key requirement for HGVs is the installation of a left turn alarm for right-hand drive vehicles (or a right turn alarm for left-hand drive vehicles). This system audibly warns VRUs when the vehicle is turning, providing an additional layer of protection in situations where visibility may be limited and ensuring that pedestrians and cyclists are made aware of the vehicle’s movements.
Rear Signage
In addition to the high-tech monitoring systems, clear and effective signage is a key element of PSS. Vehicles, including any trailers, must display appropriate signage at the rear, alerting other road users to the areas where visibility may be limited. This visual cue helps to enhance overall safety and prevent accidents.
Side Underrun Bars
While these are not directly provided by TrafficAngel, side underrun bars are a critical safety feature that prevent VRUs such as cyclists from being drawn underneath the side of a truck in the event of a road collision.
Why Choose TrafficAngel for DVS and PSS Compliance?
At TrafficAngel, we specialise in cutting-edge safety solutions, offering customised camera and recording systems that ensure full compliance with Transport for London (TfL) regulations. We provide a complete, hassle-free service to get your fleet equipped with the latest safety technology required by law and other schemes such as FORS or CLOCS.
Our Progressive Safe System products and technology not only meets all the necessary specifications and standards but also exceeds expectations, offering user-friendly designs that prioritise the driver’s experience. By minimising unnecessary alerts and providing audible warnings only when truly needed, our technology helps prevent driver overload and distraction.
As one of the few companies with PSS certification from Loughborough University, we stand out for our commitment to excellence and reliability in safety innovation.
Ensure Your HGV Fleet is DVS & PSS Compliant
As the October 2024 deadline for DVS Phase 2 approaches, ensuring that your fleet is equipped with the necessary safety systems is more important than ever. The implementation of Progressive Safe System (PSS) represents a significant step forward in improving road safety, particularly in urban areas where heavy goods vehicles pose a higher risk to vulnerable road users.
Our expert team provides custom solutions designed to not only meet compliance but also enhance the safety and efficiency of your fleet. Our solutions make DVS and PSS compliance straightforward, helping you avoid penalties while improving road safety. With TrafficAngel, you get more than just compliance—you get peace of mind.
For further information on the Progressive Safe System 2024, call TrafficAngel on 01825 768555.
The full specifications for Direct Vision Standard and PSS can be found on TfL’s website below.
