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With TfL’s Direct Vision Standard due to come into force next year, vehicle safety expert Sentinel Systems will be heading to Freight in the City Expo to offer guidance to operators on ensuring their fleets comply.

TfL has been working with industry to rate lorries over 12 tonnes from zero to five stars depending on how much direct vision is possible from their cabs.

From October 2020, those with a zero rating will be banned from entering the capital unless they are fitted with mitigating safety systems to reduce the dangers to vulnerable road users (VRUs).

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Sentinel Systems has reviewed the requirements for zero-rated HGVs and is keen to advise operators on the importance of installing a sensor system to warn drivers of VRUs, an audible vehicle manoeuvring warning and a fully operational camera monitoring system.

It recommends the following:

  • A fully operational camera monitoring system and a sensor system with driver alerts are both mandatory requirements to ensure blind spots are covered, whilst vehicles will be required to have a fully operational camera monitoring system on the nearside of the vehicle and comprehensive sensor system to warn drivers of anyone close to the vehicle.
  • The recommended specification for sensors advises that sensors on rigid vehicles should ensure coverage six metres down the nearside or one metre from the rear of the vehicle, whichever is smaller. Sensors should also not activate when near stationary vehicles or roadside furniture. It is also recommended that additional front sensors comply with coverage set out in the UNECE Regulation 46 Class VI mirror coverage zone.
  • When it comes to warning of intended manoeuvres, the TFL guidance recommends that vehicles should have a manual on/off switch for use between 11.30pm and 7am. Operators should also consider an audible warning system that combines warnings and white noise. The use of warning signage should also not be offensive and should not give instructional advice to the people walking and cycling. The text point size should be legible by a cyclist or pedestrian at a reasonable distance from the vehicle.

Sentinel Systems’ safety camera package can be customised to meet the individual requirements of each fleet, depending on the size and operations of each vehicle.

The camera system can be created using any number of Sentinel’s systems, including forward, rear and side facing cameras for a 360° view of the vehicle’s surroundings.

“We’re looking forward to talking to visitors at the Freight in the City Expo who want to know more about our safety solutions and how our specialist equipment can help save lives by improving drivers’ all-round vision and awareness,” said a company spokeswoman.

Come and talk to the Sentinel team at Freight in the City Expo on 6 November at Alexandra Palace. It’s free to visit and is a ‘must-see’ event for anyone involved with urban logistics. Register for your free pass today!

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