Time is running out! RT.com readers are reminded that the second EU directive on close-proximity and wide-angle mirrors, 2007/38/EC, comes into force on 31 March.
It requires all commercial vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, first registered after 1 January 2000, to be fitted with compliant blind-spot mirrors or cameras. Compliance with the directive is initially by operators completing a self-certification form, available from VOSA, which must then be submitted at the next annual test.
If you are not sure whether or not the mirrors on your vehicles comply with the new regulations you should contact your vehicle supplier or local dealer promptly.
A number of truck manufacturers including DAF, Scania and Volvo are already running blind-spot mirror retrofit programmes as well as providing simple devices to check the curvature of the existing mirrors on your trucks to see whether they meet the new regs.
There is also a useful website where you can quickly ascertain whether your vehicles already have mirrors which comply with the new regulations. To use the site you will need to enter the chassis numbers of your trucks.
Commercial Motor conducted a comprehensive blind-spot mirror test in its 24 July 2008 edition which looked at the new mirror requirements as well as the additional vision provided by devices such as the Dobli mirror, TV monitors and Fresnel lenses. For back copies call 01371 851800.