Safety standards explained: What do the helmet certifications mean?

Bicycle helmets are designed to protect your head in the event of falls and collisions. They absorb impact forces and significantly reduce the risk of head injuries. To ensure that a helmet provides effective protection, it must meet certain safety standards. Find all relevant certifications and their importance for your safety below! 

What are certifications and why are they necessary?

Certifications are proof that a helmet meets certain safety requirements. They are necessary to ensure that consumers buy products that are reliable and safe. 

Bicycle accident and injury statistics

According to the Federal Statistical Office, There will be over 97,700 bicycle accidents in Germany in 2022. There were 94,050 bicycle accidents in 2023. Besides 256 cyclists died last year in a traffic accident. 

Many of these accidents result in head injuries, which could be avoided with a high-quality bicycle helmet. Although there is no Helmet requirement in Germany We always advise you to wear a suitable helmet when cycling. 

DIN EN 1078: The European standard for bicycle helmets

DIN EN 1078 is an essential European standard that was developed specifically for bicycle helmets. It is an important tool to ensure the safety of cyclists. 

This standard specifies which requirements a bicycle helmet must meetto be considered safe and reliable. It applies not only to helmets that are used in traffic, but also to those that are used in... Sports, BMX or Mountain biking, to be worn.

DIN EN 1078 was introduced to create uniform safety standards that all manufacturers in Europe must adhere to. The standard is regularly updated to take into account technological developments and new findings on safety standards.

Important requirements of DIN EN 1078 for bicycle helmets

DIN EN 1078 contains several important requirements that ensure that a helmet offers the best possible protection in the event of a fall or impact.

Drop tests

The standard stipulates that helmets must undergo various fall tests. These tests simulate realistic fall conditions to ensure the helmet performs under extreme circumstances.

1. Height of fall: Helmets must survive falls from various heights, typically between 1.5 and 2 meters lie. 
2. Impact energy: The helmet must be able to absorb a certain amount of energy to reduce the impact. 
3. Material testing: The materials used must be such that they do not break or fail in the event of an impact. This also includes that the helmet has a protective outer shell and a shock-absorbing inner lining has.

Headband and closure systems

Another crucial aspect of DIN EN 1078 are the requirements for the headband and the closure system of the helmet.

1. Stability: The headband must be designed in such a way that it does not slip even in the event of a fall. This is important because a helmet only provides effective protection if it fits correctly.
2. Closure system: The closure system, often in the form of a chin strap or quick-release mechanism, must be easy to use and secure at the same time. It should not be able to be opened accidentally, but should be easy enough to use so that the helmet can be worn comfortably in everyday life.
3. adjustability: The helmet should have adjustment options to ensure an optimal fit for different head sizes and shapes.

visibility

An often ignored but important aspect of safety is the visibility of the cyclist in traffic.

1. colors: The standard recommends that helmets in striking colors are available. Bright colors like Yellow, Orange or Neon colors increase visibility in daylight and at dusk.
2. Reflective elements: In addition, the helmet should be included equipped with reflective materials to improve visibility in low light conditions. 

Durability and lifespan

DIN EN 1078 also stipulates that helmets should have a certain service life. Manufacturers must provide durability information so consumers know when to replace their helmet. It is usually recommended to have one Helmet after a serious fall or after about five years of use to replace. Would you like to find out whether you should replace your helmet again? You can find more in our guide Information about helmet replacement!

CE EN 1078: What does it mean for consumers?

The CE mark indicates that a product meets European safety standards. For consumers, this means that the helmet has been tested according to CE EN 1078 and therefore meets certain safety requirements.

Importance of CE EN 1078 for the safety of bicycle helmets

The CE mark is an important symbol that can be found on many products. It indicates that a product complies with European safety standards. In the context of Bicycle helmets that refers to CE mark for compliance with DIN EN 1078, which means that the helmet has been subjected to and meets the above safety requirements.

If you buy a bicycle helmet with the CE mark, you can be sure that this helmet offers the necessary protection. With a CE-certified helmet you are on the safe side, whether for daily commuting or sporty driving.

NTA 8776 for e-bike helmets 
This standard is specific to e-bike helmets and was developed in the Netherlands. It takes into account the higher speeds of e-bikes and offers additional protection, especially for the back of the head. 

TÜV-tested bicycle helmets: a sign of quality

“TÜV tested” is something you probably read over and over again. It is a certificate for various products. But what does this certification mean? 

What exactly does “TÜV tested” mean?

A TÜV-tested helmet has undergone additional tests, that go beyond the basic requirements. The TÜV (Technical Inspection Association) checks the safety and quality of the helmet.

1. Advanced drop testing: While DIN EN 1078 prescribes basic fall tests, TÜV carries out additional fall tests that simulate different impact angles and conditions. This ensures that the helmet provides reliable protection in a variety of real-world situations.
2. Long-term stress tests: These tests examine how the helmet performs over long periods of time under various conditions (e.g. temperature, humidity) performs. This helps evaluate the durability and reliability of the material.
3. Material and processing tests: TÜV examines the materials from which the helmet is made and the quality of the workmanship. The strength and chemical resistance of the materials are also tested to ensure that they can withstand the demands of everyday life.
4. Comfort and fit tests: The fit of the helmet is tested taking into account different head sizes and shapes. The TÜV also assesses the wearing comfort to ensure that the helmet remains comfortable even on longer journeys.
5. Additional security features: The TÜV can also check the effectiveness of safety features such as reflective elements or ventilation systems.

TÜV in safety certification

TÜV certification is another sign of quality and safety. It offers you the certainty that the helmet not only meets the minimum legal requirements, but has also been tested in practice.

EN 1078 helmet: requirements & tests on the international market

The test procedures for EN 1078 helmets also include various drop tests and durability testing. Helmets are tested for their ability to absorb impact forces and maintain their structure. The EN 1078 standard is considered one of the strictest in the world. Many countries have similar standards, but specific requirements vary.

How is EN 1078 safety measured?

Safety is measured by various parameters including the impact energy the helmet can absorb and the time it takes to be ready for use again after a fall.

The EN 1078 standard in international comparison

Differences between European and American standards

In the USA there is the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) safety certification, which has different requirements than EN 1078. The main difference lies in the testing methods and the materials used.

Which EN 1078 helmets are suitable for international markets?

Helmets that meet both EN 1078 and CPSC certification are ideal for the international market. They offer you the security you need, no matter where you drive.

CPSC safety certification

The CPSC certification, as briefly mentioned, is a US standard that ensures that bicycle helmets meet high safety requirements. This certification is particularly important in North America.

Comparison between CPSC and EN 1078

While the CPSC certification robust requirements has, puts it EN 1078 places particular emphasis on construction and materials of the helmets. However, both standards offer a high level of security.

Bicycle helmet light vs. heavy: What role does weight play in terms of safety?

The weight of a bicycle helmet can have a major impact on its comfort. A lightweight helmet is often more comfortable to wear. Nevertheless, the helmet should of course meet all requirements - regardless of whether it is light or heavy. We advise you to choose a light model as they are more comfortable to drive. 

KED offers a variety of lightweight helmets that still meet the highest safety standards. They combine comfort with safety, so you can enjoy long rides without the helmet becoming uncomfortable.

Bicycle helmet test: What does the ADFC say?

ADFC test methods

The ADFC (General German Bicycle Club) carries out regular tests to check the safety and functionality of bicycle helmets. These tests take into account aspects such as Fit, Visibility and the general one Build quality.

At the ADFC you can also find up-to-date information on cycling as well as various events related to safety while riding. 

Bicycle helmet safety for children: special requirements

Now we come to a particularly important topic: the safety standards for children's helmets. 

Children's helmets must meet particularly strict requirements Children can often suffer more serious injuries when they fall. The standards are therefore specifically designed to protect children's sensitive heads. 

What parents should pay attention to when buying

Parents should pay attention to certifications when purchasing a children's helmet. A tested helmet that meets the standards EN 1078 or CPSC corresponds is a good indicator for safe and high-quality children's helmets. 

Check bike helmet fit for safety

How do I properly check whether my bicycle helmet fits securely? In case you were wondering, below you will find a short but important list of criteria for the fit of your helmet. 

A safe helmet should sit close to the head, without pressing. To check the fit, you can follow these steps:

1. Put the helmet on and make sure it doesn't wobble.
2. Adjust the chin strap so that it tight, but comfortable sits.
3. The helmet should be at the same time extend over the forehead to the middle of the skull.
4. Wiggle your head around a bit to see if the helmet sits firmly. 

Conclusion: safety standards and choosing the right helmet

Safety standards are essential when it comes to purchasing a bicycle helmet. They offer you the security you need to be able to cycle without worry. You should also pay attention to the perfect fit so that the helmet can fully protect you. 

KED offers a variety of helmets, which are not only light but also meet the highest requirements. Be it for adults or children - choose a KED helmet for your safety while driving!