TIME IS RUNNING out. The second EU directive on closeproximity and wide-angle mirrors, 2007/38/EC, comes into force on 31 March.
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The rule requires all commercial vehicles over 33 tonnes. first registered after 1 January 2000, to be fitted with compliant blindspot mirrors or cameras.
Compliance with the directive is initially by completing a selfcertification form, available from VOSA, which must then be submitted at the next annual test. Operators that are not sure the mirrors on their vehicles comply with the new regulations should contact their vehicle supplier or local dealer promptly.
A number of truck-makers. including DAFT Scania and Volvo, are already running specific blindspot mirror retrofit programmes, as well as providing simple devices to check the curvature of the existing mirrors on the truck to see if it meets the new reg,s.
There is also a website where operators can find out if their trucks already have mirrors that comply with the new rules (www. checkyounnirror.com). Just enter the chassis numbers of the trucks. CM has also conducted a blindspot mirror test (CM 24 July 2008), which looked at the new mirror rules as well as the additional vision provided by devices such as the Dobli min-or,TV monitors and Fresnel lenses. For back copies, call 01371 851800 or visit www. roadtransport.conilblindspot