CRASH HELMET SAFETY

Factors involved in buying a motorcycle helmet are outlined: cost, style, make, and material. Three basic helmet materials include glass fiber and resin (G.R.P.), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (A.B.S.), and polycarbonate. With the aid of the Greater Manchester Police (England), and a grant from industry, a research project based at Manchester Polytechnic is investigating motorcycle accidents and offering practical advice to helmet manufacturers on safety and design. Some results of this research are reported: helmets are generally in poor condition, with little consideration given to the size of the extra helmet carried along for friends; chin straps are often unfastened or are fastened and pushed inside the helmet; and painting of polycarbonate helmets (despite warning label) renders them brittle. Research has demonstrated that the rivet fastening mechanism of the chin strap could, under tension, pull away from the helmet shell. Manufacturers are in the process of redesigning this fastening device, and the British Standard Institute will soon incorporate this aspect in their test procedures. It is emphasized that a helmet must be in good condition and must be a proper fit to protect the cyclist from serious head injuries. The do's and don'ts of motorcycle crash helmets are outlined concerning painting and solvents; transfers and stickers (which may contain solvents); fitting; fastening; and exhaust problems (spare helmet deterioration from exhaust fumes).

• Corporate Authors:

  Southern Africa Commercial Travellers Association

  Box 828
  Cape Town,   South Africa 
• Authors:
  • Fewtrell, J
• Publication Date: 1980

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 26-28
• Serial:
  • On the Road
  • Volume: 3
  • Issue Number: 1
  • Publisher: Southern Africa Commercial Travellers Association

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Design; Glass fibers; Helmets; Resins; Safety; Styrenes
• Subject Areas: Design; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00386124
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Report/Paper Numbers: HS-029 168
• Files: HSL, USDOT
• Created Date: Jun 28 1984 12:00AM