
Security standards explain: What do the helmet certifications mean?
Bicycle helmets are designed in such a way that they protect your head in the event of falls and collisions. They dampen impact forces and significantly reduce the risk of head injuries. To ensure that a helmet protects effectively, it must correspond to certain safety standards. Find all relevant certifications and their meanings for your security below!
What are certifications and why are they necessary?
Certifications are evidence that a helmet meets certain safety requirements. They are necessary to ensure that consumers buy products that are reliable and safe.
Statistics on bicycle accidents and injuries
According to the Federal Statistical Office, 2022 in Germany over 97,700 bicycle accidents. In 2023 there were 94,050 bicycle accidents. Besides that Died 256 cyclists last year in a traffic accident.
Many of these accidents end up with head injuries that could be avoided by a high -quality bicycle helmet. Although there is none Helmet obligation in Germany We always advise you to wear a suitable helmet while cycling.
DIN EN 1078: The European standard for bicycle helmets
DIN EN 1078 is an essential European standard that was specially developed for bicycle helmets. It is an important instrument to ensure the safety of cyclists.
This standard determines what requirements a bicycle helmet must meetto be considered safe and reliable. It applies not only to helmets that are used in road traffic, but also to those who sport, BMX or Mountain biking, to be worn.
The DIN EN 1078 was introduced to create uniform security standards that all manufacturers in Europe must be observed. The standard is updated regularly to take into account technological developments and new knowledge about security standards.
Important requirements of DIN EN 1078 for bicycle helmets
The 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.
Storm
The norm stipulates that helmets have to be subjected to different storm tests. These tests simulate realistic fall conditions to ensure that the helmet works even under extreme circumstances.
- Height of the fall: Helmets must survive falls from different heights, which typically between 1.5 and 2 meters lay.
- Impact energy: The helmet must be able to absorb a certain energy in order to reduce the impact.
- Material test: The materials used must be so that they do not break or fail if an impact. This also includes that the helmet over a Protective outer shell and a shock -absorbing inner lining has.
Headband and locking systems
Another crucial aspect of DIN EN 1078 is the requirements for the headband and the shutter system of the helmet.
- stability: The headband must be constructed in such a way that it does not slip even in the event of a fall. This is important because a helmet only protects effectively if it sits properly.
- Locking system: The closure system, often in the form of a chin strap or a quick locking mechanism, must be easy to use and be safe at the same time. It should not be opened unintentionally, but should be easy enough to use to comfortably wear the helmet in everyday life.
- adjustability: The helmet should have options for adaptation to ensure an optimal fit for different head sizes and shapes.
visibility
An often ignored but important aspect of security is the visibility of the cyclist in road traffic.
- 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.
- Reflective elements: In addition, the helmet should be reflective materials equipped be to improve visibility in poor lighting conditions.
Durability and lifespan
The DIN EN 1078 also determines that helmets should have a certain lifespan. Manufacturers have to provide information on durability so that consumers know when they should replace their helmet. As a rule, it is recommended to Helmet after a severe fall or after using around five years to replace. Would you like to find out if you should exchange your helmet again? In our guide you will find more Information on helmet exchange!
CE EN 1078: What does that mean for consumers?
The CE sign indicates that a product corresponds to the European security standards. For consumers, this means that the helmet was checked according to CE EN 1078 and thus meets certain safety requirements.
Meaning of the CE EN 1078 for the safety of bicycle helmets
The CE sign is an important symbol that can be found on many products. It indicates that a product corresponds to the European security standards. In the context of the Bicycle helmets that refers to CE mark on compliance with DIN EN 1078, which means that the helmet has been subjected to the above security requirements and fulfills them.
If you buy a bicycle helmet with the CE sign, you can be sure that this helmet offers the necessary protection. With a CE-certified helmet, you are on the safe side, whether while commuting or doing sports.
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-checked bicycle helmets: a sign of quality
“TÜV-tested” is something that you probably read again and again. It is a certificate for different products. But what about this certification?
What exactly means "TÜV tested"?
A TÜV tester helmet has run through additional tests, that go beyond the basic requirements. The TÜV (technical surveillance association) checks the safety and quality of the helmet.
- Extended fall tests: While the DIN EN 1078 prescribes basic storm tests, the TÜV carries out additional storm tests that simulate different impact angles and conditions. This ensures that the helmet reliably protects in a variety of real situations.
- Long -term stress tests: These tests check how the helmet over longer periods under different conditions (e.g. Temperature, moisture) perform. This helps to evaluate the durability and reliability of the material.
- Material and processing tests: The TÜV examines the materials from which the helmet is manufactured and the quality of the processing. The strength and chemical resistance of the materials are also tested to ensure that they can withstand the requirements in everyday life.
- Comfort and fit tests: The fit of the helmet is tested taking into account different head sizes and shapes. The TÜV also evaluates the comfort to ensure that the helmet remains pleasant even on longer journeys.
- Additional security features: The TÜV can also check the effectiveness of security features such as reflective elements or ventilation systems.
TÜV in security certification
TÜV certification is another sign of quality and security. It offers you the certainty that the helmet not only meets the legal minimum 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 fall tests and the testing of the durability. Helmets are tested for their ability to absorb impact forces and maintain their structure. The EN 1078 Standard is one of the strictest worldwide. Many countries have similar standards, but the specific requirements vary.
How is the EN 1078 security measured?
Security is measured by various parameters, including the impact energy that the helmet can absorb, and The time that is needed to be ready for use 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) security certification that places different requirements than EN 1078. The main difference is in the test methods and the materials used.
Which EN 1078 helmets are suitable for international markets?
Helmets that meet both the EN 1078 and the CPSC certification are ideal for the international market. They offer you the security you need, no matter where you drive.
CPSC security certification
As mentioned in short, CPSC certification is an American standard that ensures that bicycle helmets meet high security requirements. This certification is particularly important in North America.
Comparison between CPSC and EN 1078
While the CPSC certification robust requirements has, puts the EN 1078 special emphasis on the construction and materials The helmet. However, both standards offer a high security level.
Bicycle helmet slightly vs. difficult: What role does the weight play in terms of security?
The weight of a bicycle helmet can strongly influence the comfort. A light helmet is often more pleasant to wear. Nevertheless, the helmet should of course meet all requirements - regardless of whether it is easy or difficult. We advise you to make a light model because these are more comfortable when driving.
KED offers a variety of light helmets on that still correspond to the highest security standards. They combine comfort so that you can enjoy long journeys without the helmet becoming uncomfortable.
Bicycle helmets 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 Processing quality.
You can also find current information on the topic of cycling as well as various events related to safety when driving.
Bicycle helmet security for children: special requirements
Now we come to a particularly important topic, the security standards for children's helmets.
Children's helmets must meet particularly strict requirements because Children can often suffer serious injuries when falling. The standards are therefore specially designed to protect the sensitive head of children.
What should parents pay attention to when buying
Parents should pay attention to the certifications when buying a children's helmet. A certified helmet that the standards EN 1078 or CPSC corresponds, is a good indicator for safe and qualitative children's helmets.
Check bicycle helmet seat for safety
How do I correctly check whether my bicycle helmet is safe? If you have asked yourself this, you will find a short but important listing with criteria for the fit of your helmet below.
A safe helmet should sitting closely on the head, without pressing. To check the fit, you can consider the following steps:
- Put on the helmet and make sure he not wiggled.
- Adjust the chin tape so that it closely, But comfortably sits.
- The helmet should also range over the forehead to the middle of the skull.
- Watch a little with your head to find out if the helmet firmly sits.
Conclusion: security standards and the choice of the right helmet
Security standards are essential when it comes to buying 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 protect you fully.
KED offers a variety of helmetsthat 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!