Asia’s
largest helmet manufacturer Steelbird Hi-Tech India has announced that it has
become the very first helmet brand in India to receive certifications and
approvals for its products and facilities to meet the new BIS standard for
helmets i.e. IS 4151:2015.
Steelbird
has already upgraded its manufacturing facilities , labs and designs to meet
the requirements of new standard which will be in force from January 15, 2019.
It has received prerequisite certifications and all Steelbird helmets are being
produced as per the new guidelines.
The
new helmet standards IS 4151:2015 will replace the existing IS 4151:1993. This
is a welcoming step in a bid to improve safety levels and curb poor quality
helmet sales. Under the new standard, helmet manufacturers have to ensure good
quality of four parts of the helmets which are shell, expanded polystyrene
(EPS), chin straps and visor.
The
transport ministry has also announced that the sale of non-ISI standard helmets
will now be treated as an offense, while the new helmets will be specified as
two-wheeler helmets meant for motorcyclists. Furthermore, the new guidelines
issued by the transport ministry have revised the rules for testing the new
motorcycle helmets.
The
impact absorption test has been modified with number of additional impact
points. The tests now include the front impact test under various conditions of
temperature and humidity. There will be new tests added to stimulate the
abrasion of the helmet during an accident and the effectiveness of the
retention system. There will also be an additional micro-slip test and abrasion
test for the chin strip added. Another test for the retention system's quick
release mechanism has been added under the new guidelines.
This
standard specifies requirements for materials, construction, workmanship,
finish and performance for protective helmet (with or without lower face cover)
for everyday use by two wheeler riders. The helmets covered by this standard
are not intended for high-speed competitive events. The standard specifies
helmets of the sizes 500 mm, 520 mm, 540 mm, 560 mm, 570 mm, 580 mm, 600 mm and
620 mm. to match the head forms.