Safer Lorry Scheme – FORS

In line with Boris Johnson and Transport For London’s (TFL) plans to improve road safety in London, the new Safer Lorry Scheme (SLS) was brought into effect on September 1st 2015. It’s going to be enforced by the London Metropolitan Police, City of London Police and the DVSA so one way or another you’re going to have to comply with it. Seems worth getting to know the new rules’ doesn’t it?

New rules for all vehicles over 3.5 tons

All vehicles over 3.5 tons must be fitted with sideguards when entering Central London, along with Class V and Class VI mirrors. TFL emphasize that this includes construction vehicles, which are reportedly “involved in a disproportionate number of fatal collisions involving cyclists and pedestrians”.

FORS update standard for achieving accreditation

As a direct result of this, the “Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme” (FORS) has updated their standards for achieving accreditation. FORS would remind fleet operators that if you’re not complying with SLS then you’re not complying with the requirements to retain your FORS credit. Furthermore, you’ll be expected to demonstrate that your vehicles meet the new guidelines at your next audit or face being stripped of your FORS.

More to consider

Aside from the threat of losing your FORS, there are criminal charges to consider for not complying with the new rules. :-

Drivers can receive a Fixed Penalty Notice of £50 for non compliance
Fines of up to £1000 can be applied in a Magistrate’s Court
The Traffic Commissioner will be informed of any breaches and can take action to suspend licenses of any operators

It’s not all doom and gloom – Ridgeway Training can help

It might all sound a bit doom and gloom there, but anyone who’s been in haulage for any amount of time know that the rules change from time to time. It’s common sense to get ahead of the game. If you need additional training then now would be a good time to contact Ridgeway Training and get clued up. Better now than in the Magistrates Court, right?

Thanks for reading our latest blog about the Safer Lorry Scheme and FORS. Check back next week for more news.