Here’s the Crack, to keep your head intact………
21 June 2010
You probably believe that it is a good idea to buy a cycle helmet but can you be sure that it will give you some extra protection? A recent study conducted in Northern Ireland revealed that 77% of cycle helmets examined did not comply with requirements for safety.
The market surveillance exercise was carried out by Environmental Health Departments of local Councils throughout Northern Ireland. Tests indicated that while the requirements for shock absorption capacity and effectiveness of the retention system were mostly being met, 77% failed in relation to marking and/or information supplied by the manufacturer. (2)
Action taken as a result of the failures included local withdrawal of products, liaison with other enforcement agencies, and further testing.
The results have been presented to the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills in London and to European colleagues in Prague. Other European countries plan to use the findings for their own market surveillance projects.
As a result of the findings, leaflets and posters have been designed to provide customers with safety information when choosing and wearing helmets. The promotional material is being launched at this particular time in June to coincide with Bike Week 2010.
Carrickfergus Borough Council intends to distribute the leaflets and posters to retailers and the general public within the Borough as part of a province wide campaign.
Alison Marsh, Environmental Health Officer with Carrickfergus Borough Council, commented,
“Cycle helmets are marketed as safety equipment. The lack of marking or other information is therefore concerning as the helmets could be rendered ineffective.”
She went on to add:
“Distribution of the promotional material will help address the widespread deficiency with regard to marking and labelling issues.”
Further information in relation to the study and the promotional material can be found on the website www.keepyourheadintact.co.uk
For further information please contact:
Alison Marsh, Environmental Health Officer
Telephone: 028 9335 8000
E-Mail: alison.marsh@carrickfergus.org
