Helmet Certifications and Standards (CPSC, EN 1078, AS/NZS 2063)

Helmet safety testing procedures

Helmet testing procedures ensure that helmets meet specific safety criteria and provide adequate protection to the wearer. 

These tests assess various aspects of helmet performance, such as impact protection, retention system strength, and positional stability. The testing procedures for different helmet standards (e.g., CPSC, EN 1078, AS/NZS 2063) may vary slightly but generally share similar test parameters.

Here’s an overview of common helmet testing procedures and what the test parameters mean.

Impact protection tests

These tests evaluate a helmet’s ability to absorb and dissipate the energy of an impact, which is critical in preventing head injuries during a crash. Helmets are subjected to a series of impacts on different parts of the helmet (front, side, rear, and top) using a guided drop test rig.

A headform, which simulates a human head, is placed inside the helmet, and the helmet is then dropped onto a solid, flat surface or an anvil with a specific shape. The force transmitted to the headform is measured using sensors, and the helmet must not exceed certain force limits to pass the test.

Test parameter	CPSC	EN 1078	AS/NZS 2063
Test Height (Flat)	2 meters	1.5 meters	1.5 meters
Test Height (Kerb)	1.2 meters	1.05 meters	1.0 meters

Retention system strength tests

The retention system, which includes the straps and buckles, is crucial for keeping the helmet securely in place during an accident.

These tests evaluate the strength and durability of the retention system by applying force to the straps and checking for slippage or breakage. The helmet must maintain its position on the headform and not exceed certain slippage limits to pass the test.

Test parameter	CPSC	EN 1078	AS/NZS 2063
Allowable force	300g	250g	250g
Test method	Dynamic tension load	Static tensile load	Dynamic tension load
Test load	300 pounds (1335 N)	50 pounds (222 N)	300 pounds (1335 N)

Positional stability tests (roll-off tests)

These tests assess a helmet’s ability to stay securely in place when subjected to forces that may cause it to move or come off the head during an accident.

The helmet is placed on a headform, and a force is applied to the front or rear to simulate the helmet being pushed off the head. The helmet must not roll off the headform to pass the test.

Test parameter	CPSC	EN 1078	AS/NZS 2063
Test duration	120 seconds	30 seconds	120 seconds
Test method	Inclined anvil drop	Roll-off test	Inclined anvil drop
Test requirement	≤ 30 mm forward shift	No roll-off	≤ 30 mm forward shift

Ventilation and field of vision tests

While not directly related to safety, these tests ensure that the helmet provides adequate airflow and does not obstruct the wearer’s field of vision.

Ventilation tests measure the amount of air that can flow through the helmet, while field of vision tests check whether the helmet’s design obstructs the wearer’s line of sight.

Additional tests

Depending on the specific safety standard, helmets may be subjected to further tests, such as those for UV degradation, high or low-temperature performance, and chemical resistance (e.g., sweat, sunscreen, or insect repellent).