Companies implement Crossrail lorry safety requirements
The rigorous safety requirements for any HGV working on the Crossrail project is leading to widespread change in the UK haulage industry as vehicles are upgraded with new safety equipment to alert drivers to vulnerable road users.
Crossrail’s contract requirements have enabled thousands of HGVs working on the project to become safer by fitting safety equipment to each vehicle at an average cost of around £1,250.
Crossrail, alongside the Greater London Authority (GLA) and Transport for London (TfL) is using its supply chain contracts to ensure companies are adopting these safety measures.
Crossrail requires all HGVs delivering to its worksites to be fitted with cycle safety equipment. This includes Fresnel lenses or cameras; blind spot detection equipment, which warns the driver when a cyclist is in the near-side blind spot; and under-run guards to prevent cyclists from coming into contact with lorry wheels. Vehicles must also carry warning signs to alert cyclists and pedestrians of the risks they face by getting too close to HGVs.
Lorries are then inspected when arriving at site to ensure the required safety equipment is fitted and in working order. Regular drivers are also expected to undergo a one-day intensive training course regarding vulnerable road users.
Crossrail chief executive Andrew Wolstenholme said: “The haulage and construction industry has invested millions in new safety equipment to meet Crossrail’s safety requirements for HGVs. The benefits are not just confined to London as the majority of HGVs delivering to Crossrail sites also deliver to locations in towns and cities across the UK. The impact of this initiative is clearly demonstrated by organisations in both the private and public sectors now adopting these important safety standards.”
