How are helmets tested for safety?

In-depth explanation

Safety tests vary by standard but commonly include impact attenuation tests at multiple velocities and points, penetration resistance, retention system stress, and peripheral vision checks. Standards bodies mount a helmet on a headform and drop it onto anvils to measure peak acceleration transmitted to the headform. Rotational and oblique impact tests are increasingly incorporated to assess brain injury risk. Passing a recognized standard means the helmet met the minimum performance thresholds for that test suite.

Key takeaways

• Safety tests vary by standard but commonly include impact attenuation tests at multiple velocities and points, penetration resistance, retention system stress, and peripheral vision checks.
• Standards bodies mount a helmet on a headform and drop it onto anvils to measure peak acceleration transmitted to the headform.
• Rotational and oblique impact tests are increasingly incorporated to assess brain injury risk.

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