Transport for London implements FORS Gold Standard

Starting April 2024, Transport for London (TfL) is mandating FORS Gold accreditation or an equivalent scheme for all new Greater London Authority Group contracts over £1 million involving vehicles. This move aims to enhance vehicle safety, aligning with the Vision Zero goal to eliminate road deaths and injuries. FORS, a safety and environmental standards accreditation scheme, has been instrumental in raising industry standards.

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Despite a 31% reduction in serious injuries with FORS Silver, fatal collisions involving freight vehicles remain a concern. The shift to FORS Gold ensures operators meet heightened standards, prioritising safety for vulnerable road users. The new requirements won’t affect existing contracts, and suppliers with contracts under £1 million must attain at least FORS Silver. The FORS program assesses fleet performance in areas like safety, environmental impact, and operational efficiency, providing a framework for continuous improvement. TfL’s commitment to Vision Zero involves various initiatives, including the Direct Vision Standard, which reduces blind spots on lorries. Further measures, like a three-star rating or Progressive Safe System for HGVs over 12 tonnes, will be implemented from October 2024.