Helmets must in general be designed so as not to present any unnecessary risks. This means that rivets, other fastening devices, edges, ventilation openings etc. must not be potential sources of injury. The weight must also be as low as possible, (particularly for helmets intended to be worn for long periods), fit must be good and helmets must feel comfortable.
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Environmental requirements for helmets state that they must withstand wet conditions, high and low temperatures, and the effects of solar UV radiation.
SP has many years' experience of testing helmets. Testing can be performed in accordance with any or all of the international standards for different types of helmets, or in accordance with the client's own performance requirements. |
SP is an accredited laboratory for motor cycle helmets, cycle helmets, equestrian helmets, ski helmets, ice hockey helmets, industrial helmets and fire-fighters' helmets. In addition to helmets, we also test face guards and eye protection for ice hockey helmets.
In addition, since 1994, SP has been a Notified Body entitled to perform and certify tests for CE-marking. SP's registration number as a Notified Body is 0402. CE-marking indicates that a helmet fulfils the requirements in the EEC Directive, 89/686/EEC. As this is a mandatory directive, helmets must be CE-marked if they are to be sold anywhere in Europe.
Certification for CE-marking consists of type testing. In many fields, there is a wish to complement type testing with manufacturer's inspection, which provides additional assurance for the purchaser that manufacture is continuously monitored by a third party. SP can provide this through SP certification, which allows the manufacturer to P-mark the products. In addition to the type approval required for CE-marking, this certification particularly indicates that the manufacturer has entered into an agreement on continuous inspection surveillance with SP.
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We are today accredited for testing and certification in accordance with the following European standards:
EN 443 Fire protection helmets
EN 1077 Ski helmets
EN 397 Industrial safety helmets
EN 1385 Hemlemts for canoeing and whitewater sports
EN 966 Helmets for airbone sport
EN 1078 Bicycle helmets
EN 812 Industrial bump caps
EN 1080 Impact protection helmets for young children
EN 967 Ice hockey helmets
EN 1384 Equestrian helmets
IS355 Hurling helmets
We are also accredited for testing in accordance with ECE regulation 22 motorcycle helmets
Special tests can also be performed in accordance with other standards, or with the client's own test specifications.