Family-run Croydon haulier ELB Partners has invested £40,000 in safety equipment to ensure its fleet meets the minimum Direct Vision Standard (DVS) rating ahead of the law changing this month.

ELB has invested in equipment for 29 vehicles ahead of a regulation mandating that HGVs over 12 tonnes need a minimum three-star DVS rating to operate in Greater London from October 28.

Each vehicle has benefited from a £1,400 pound investment to ensure it clears the bar for the latest batch of regulations for operating in the capital, which also includes Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) compliance, operators holding Fleet Operation Recognition Scheme (FORS) accreditation and drivers being dangerous goods vehicle (ADR) trained.

The DVS measures how much an HGV driver can see directly through their cab windows and is ranked from one to five, based on the level of risk to road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.

Hauliers found to be in breach of this regulation are likely to receive a penalty charge notice (PCN).

Earlier this year, Pallet-Track member ELB achieved its 10th consecutive FORS Gold award for its commitment to operator and public safety.

Managing director Peter Eason said: “Safety is always at the forefront of our operations at ELB and we have invested across our fleet to ensure our vehicles meet the DVS standard well in advance of the law changing at the end of October.

“The list of regulations we must abide by to operate in London grows bigger by the year, but as always, we are ahead of the curve in meeting this latest law change to demonstrate our commitment to operating in a safe and professional manner at all times.”

ELB was established in 1970 as a three-person partnership. Eason bought the business from his father George in 1985. It now employs around 60 staff and moved to a new 60,000 sq. ft headquarters in Beddington Farm Road in 2021.

 

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