Contractors on the project are backing a campaign for safer lorries following a spate of accidents involving cyclists across the capital.

Crossrail’s contractor requirements insist that all HGVs working on the project are fitted with safety devices including blind spot proximity sensors, side under-run guards and warning alerts for cyclists.

Any trucks not meeting the strict standards are being turned away from site with contractors liable for any costs incurred.

The crackdown applies to HGVs operated directly by a contactor or on their behalf by a haulier.

A number of lorries are known to have already been turned away from site.

The move supports a safer-lorry campaign launched by Mayor of London Boris Johnson following a spate of accidents.

Andy Mitchell, Crossrail Programme Director said: “Crossrail sets high standards for lorries operating on the project and views the safety of all road users, including cyclists, as a significant priority.

“Crossrail requires all lorries working on the Crossrail project to be fitted with additional safety features to protect cyclists.

“HGVs that do not comply with our increased requirements will be refused entry to Crossrail worksites and turned away incurring financial cost to individual contractors.

“As our contractors often work on multiple construction projects, these new safety measures will help improve lorry safety across the construction industry, delivering benefits for cyclists across London.”

Ian Wilson, Safety Director, Balfour Beatty Major Civil Engineering said: “Managing the interfaces between people and plant is at the heart of our Zero Harm ethos.

“Therefore, we are delighted that Crossrail is leading the programme to raise the bar in addressing these key hazards.

“Balfour Beatty is committed to supporting them and our supply chain in the development of new technologies to further enhance these safety measures.”

Leading builders merchants have already adapted their vehicles to comply with Crossrail’s demands.

Burdens group safety and transport officer Ryan Coles said: “Compliant vehicles are in place at our London depots with more to follow in the coming months.

“We are also not confining this to London so more Burdens vehicles with the very latest safety systems will be introduced across the country.”

Keyline has also adapted 14 of its delivery lorries to comply with the new demands.

Richard Wade, Rail Sector Manager at Keyline said: “We have already invested more than £100,000 in safety equipment and our drivers undertake more than 30 hours of training each year to ensure we exceed the needs of Crossrail.

“All Crossrail requirements are coordinated from our National Rail Office to remove the risk of any non-compliant deliveries.”