With the increase in local legislation affecting commercial vehicles such as TfL’s Direct Vision Standard (get details here:https://tfl.gov.uk › direct-vision-in-heavy-goods-vehicles), operators are having to fit increasing amounts of aftermarket equipment, especially safety equipment, to their vehicles. Each individual type of technology or piece of equipment will have its own particular requirements and issues when fitting, however, there are some common matters arising which are useful to consider before fitting:-
Weights – Thankfully, this does not often become a real problem as most of devices use solid state electronics and their design has been refined over time so as to minimise their weight and size – the issue does become significant for smaller van operators, where small weights are a much higher proportion of the total vehicle weight. Always make sure that the weight of any additional equipment, including any passengers, fuel and load , does not take you over your axle or gross margins on weight-sensitive vehicles.
Fitting Location in the Cab – Many organisations have an increasing number of screens and other devices needing to be fitted inside the cabin area; you need to give their location some thought, so occupants remain safe in the event of an incident. The kit needs to be within easy reach of the driver, in order to be able to operate or read the equipment, but must also be mounted out of harm’s way, or at least offer some sort of protection, should the worst occur. There must also be some visual logic to screens so as not to confuse the driver. Most fitting agents should be able to give you some advice on safe positioning.
Fitting Locations on the Vehicle – Wherever possible, sensors and cameras should be flush fitting or as near flush with surrounding bodywork as possible, with protective housings to avoid damage. Quality, although possibly more expensive, usually pays dividends here, as cheaper alternatives generally suffer more damage and hence associated repairs. The equipment warranty period offered will often be a good indicator of quality. When meeting Direct Vision Standards, any additional equipment fitted must obviously not obscure the standard vision through glass panels or mirrors already on the vehicle.
Maintenance – Don’t forget that all equipment will require regular routine inspection to ensure all aspects of their systems are still working and the kit is in good order. Standardise equipment inspection periods to fit in with your vehicle servicing. Do not forget to add a brief check of equipment functionality to your daily inspection sheet for drivers so that faults get corrected early and allow a little extra time for this inspection & maintenance. Many camera lenses and ultrasonic sensors will need regular cleaning in bad weather, including those mounted high on the body, unless covered by a shutter or with automated cleaning. The DVSA (Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency) have made it clear that whatever additional safety equipment is fitted must be working in order for the vehicle to be considered roadworthy.
Fitting Quality – It is always important when fitting any additional equipment to a vehicle, not supplied by the vehicle manufacturer, to take care that the supplier and technicians follow the equipment manufacturer’s and the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines; the latter is usually published as a set of instructions in a body builder’s manual. This is particularly important with any electrical accessories which must only be wired into specified points in the vehicle’s wiring loom in order not to interfere with the canbus operation or any ‘life and limb’ items.
Training and Spares – Your drivers and technical staff will also require training in order to understand the equipment. Allow sufficient time for training as part of the overall installation project. In order to help keep vehicles on the road, it pays to carry a sensible number of spares of replaceable items in stock, especially those with longer lead times.
Weather Proofing & Quality – Nearly all the supplementary safety equipment will require input from either sensors or cameras. The Water Ingress Protection ratings (IP) for each piece of equipment is an important factor to consider when purchasing. Look for as high a test IP number as possible; in general terms IP 67 will give you reasonable waterproofing protection, IP 68 has improved protection, whereas IP 69 should be resistant to water ingress from equipment such as a pressure wash. Check the design shows an ability to withstand the level of shock and vibration it will receive on your vehicles and has been tested to show resilience.
