Scania has launched a nationwide programme to assist LGV operators comply with the new regulations concerning the retro-fitting of Class IV wide-angle and Class V close-proximity mirrors

The programme includes a free mirror compliance check tool and/or free mirror compliance/field-of-vision checks at an operator’s local Scania dealer, plus price reductions of up to 37 percent on compliant wide-angle and close-proximity mirror glass until the end of November 2008.

“Scania always has safety as its top priority and has now distributed 16,500 complimentary mirror check tools to Scania operators throughout the UK,” says James Armstrong, Aftersales Director for Scania (Great Britain) Limited.  “This tool, which can also be obtained free of charge from operators’ local Scania dealer, will determine whether any wide-angle or close-proximity mirrors fitted to Scania vehicles comply with the new regulations – although it must be stressed that fitting compliant mirrors alone is not sufficient as they must also be correctly adjusted to give the required field-of-vision.

“We are therefore offering a complete supply and fit service for all affected vehicles, including a field-of-vision check and assistance with the self-certification forms VOSA has proposed.  I would advise all operators who believe they have vehicles that fall under the scope of the new legislation to contact their local Scania dealer as soon as possible to arrange a consultation.”

The promotional prices on compliant Scania mirror glass are as follows:

Close-proximity mirror glass:
£15.50 + VAT (normal price: £24.75 + VAT)
Wide-angle mirror glass:
£12.50 + VAT (normal price: £15.76 + VAT)

Additionally, Scania dealers can provide a complete fitting service for all required parts with prices starting from just £22 (TBC) excluding VAT.

Editor’s note
The regulations, which come into effect on 31 March 2009, are in accordance with EU Directive 2007/38/EC and cover the retrofitting of blind spot mirrors.  All commercial vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight registered between 1 January 2002 and 26 January 2007 will be required to be equipped with compliant Class IV close-proximity and Class V wide-angle mirrors.  The background to the change is that more than 400 injuries occur across Europe every year due to blind spot related incidents.

Andrew Bentley, MInst SMM
Head of Vehicle Contracts and Marketing