EN 1078 Helmets for Pedal Cyclists and Skateboard and Roller Skate Users

The European standard "EN 1078 Helmets for pedal cyclists, skateboarders, and roller skaters" describes the requirements and test methods for helmets worn by pedal cyclists, skateboarders, and roller skaters. The requirements and associated test methods are given for:

• Structure including field of view
• Shock absorption properties
• Retention system features including chin strap and securing devices
• Marking and information

For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions apply:

• A protective helmet is a product worn on the head that aims to reduce the risk of head injury by absorbing the energy of an impact.
• Helmet type is a category of helmets that do not differ in fundamental respects such as the helmet's materials, dimensions or construction, retention system or protective padding.
• Protective padding is the material used to absorb impact energy.
• Comfort padding is the lining material provided for the comfort of the wearer.
• Sizing padding is the lining material used to adjust the helmet size.
• The retention system is the complete assembly that maintains the helmet in position on the head (including any devices to adjust the system or increase the user's comfort).
• The chin strap is part of the retention system, which consists of a strap that passes under the wearer's chin to hold the helmet in position.
• The fundamental plane of the human head is the plane at the level of the external ear opening and the lower edge of the eye sockets.
• The fundamental plane of a headform is the plane relative to the headform that corresponds to the fundamental plane of the human head.
• The reference plane is the construction plane parallel to the base plane of the headform, at a distance dependent on the size of the headform.
• The test area is the area of ​​the helmet where impact tests can be performed, corresponding to the minimum protected area of ​​the human head.

It's important to note that the material used for the parts of the helmet that come into contact with the skin will not undergo significant changes due to contact with sweat or substances likely found in toiletries. Materials known to cause skin irritation should not be used.

A helmet typically consists of a device to absorb impact energy and a device to hold the helmet on the head in the event of an accident. The helmet must be durable and able to withstand handling. The helmet's components (visor, rivets, fans, edges, fastening device, and the like) must be designed and shaped so that they are unlikely to injure the wearer under normal use.

Helmets must have the following features:

• It should be lightweight.
• It must be ventilated.
• It should be easy to put on and take off.
• Must be usable with glasses.
• It should not significantly impede the user's ability to hear traffic noise.

When tested to this standard, there shall be no obstruction to the field of view limited by the following angles:

• Horizontally: at least 105 degrees from the longitudinal vertical mid-plane towards the left and right sides
• Upward: at least 25 degrees from the reference plane
• Downward: at least 45 degrees from the base plane

In terms of shock absorption capacity, a helmet must provide protection to the forehead, back, sides, temples, and crown of the head. When tested according to this standard, peak acceleration on a flat anvil and a curbstone anvil shall not exceed 250 g per impact for the speeds specified in the standard. These are equivalent to theoretical drop heights of 1497 mm and 1064 mm, respectively.

Once tested, the helmet must not show any damage (sharp edges, tips) that could cause significant injury to the user.

Means must be provided to hold the helmet on the wearer's head. All parts of the retention system must be securely fastened to the helmet. The chin strap must not include a chinrest. Any chin strap must be at least 15 mm wide. Chin straps may be fitted with means to enhance wearer comfort. Any retention system must be fitted with a device to adjust and maintain tension on the system. The device must be adjustable so that the buckle does not engage the jawbone. No part of the retention system should be colored green. It is recommended that the release mechanism be marked in red or orange.

When tested to this standard, the dynamic elongation of the retention system must not exceed 35 mm, and the residual elongation must not exceed 25 mm. For this purpose, elongation includes slippage of the retention device. Damage to the retention system should be accepted provided the above conditions are met. In this test, slippage of the retention device may be measured and recorded separately from other contributions to elongation, but this is for informational purposes only and is not subject to any separate requirements. When tested to this standard, the helmet must not dislodge from the headform.

In short, the EN 1078 standard is essential because it specifies the safety and performance requirements for bicycle helmets, skateboard helmets, and inline skating helmets. The main reasons for this standard's importance are:

• User safety: Ensures that helmets provide a minimum level of protection against head injuries in the event of an accident. It sets standards for impact absorption, harness strength, and helmet stability to reduce the risk of injury.
• Consistency and reliability: Provides a uniform benchmark for manufacturers across the European Union, ensuring that all helmets meet consistent quality and safety requirements.
• Consumer confidence: EN 1078 certified helmets give buyers confidence that the product has been independently tested and meets safety standards.
• Regulatory compliance: In many European countries, helmets must comply with the EN 1078 standard to be legally sold.
• Product liability: Helps manufacturers limit legal risks by proving that their products meet recognized safety standards.

Our organization, which has been supporting businesses across all sectors for years through a wide range of testing, measurement, analysis, and evaluation activities, has a strong team of employees who closely follow global developments in science and technology and are constantly improving themselves. In this context, we also provide testing services to businesses in accordance with the EN 1078 "Helmets for Pedal Cyclists, Skateboarders, and Rollerblades" standard.