Helmets are critical for safety; however, not all helmets are created equal, and understanding the nuances can make the difference between safety and serious injury according to the JN Foundation National Hemet Wearing Coalition project.

“The National Helmet Wearing Coalition is committed to educating motorcycle drivers to identify and correctly use standardised helmets to increase their chances of survival in the event of a crash. We continue to advocate for these helmets within the Jamaican market. Affordable certified standardised helmets are available from numerous international suppliers, making this task achievable within the Jamaican context,” said Sydoney Preddie, project manager for road safety and road users at JN Foundation.

Addressing motorcycle safety at a recent workshop hosted by the project, Dr Terry Smith, principal scientist at Galeatus and technical consultant for helmet safety supporting the JN Foundation National Hemet Wearing Coalition project, stated that one of the most crucial aspects of a helmet is its compliance with a recognised safety standard.

Dr Smith noted the four standards named in Jamaica’s road safety legislation, and indicated a preference for the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) standard, or the European ECE 22 standard, both of which are recognised around the world as standards that provide excellent head protection for motorcyclists. He further warned motorcyclists against purchasing novelty helmets that do not meet safety standards, and to look out for fake DOT labels.

“Additionally, helmets should generally be replaced every five years, as exposure to sweat, UV rays, and other environmental factors can degrade the materials over time. It should be replaced immediately once that has been involved in an accident, even if it shows no visible signs of damage,” Dr Smith explained.

There was also recommendation for proper fitting for maximum safety and careful storage to extend helmet life to motorcyclists.