New rule on ISI helmets. Not to weigh more than 1.2 kg
Posted on: 26/Jul/2018 2:37:32 PM
New BIS norms are drafted to encompass provisions pertaining to protective helmets to be used while driving motorcycles and scooters.
Giving relief to all those who are not a fan of big, bulky, heavy helmets while driving bike, here is a government order with all-new guidelines according to which helmets are not allowed to weigh above 1.2 kg. This makes the safety equipment lighter by 300gm as compared to the earlier weight threshold of 1.5 kg.
The ministry of transport, in its statement, has mentioned that non-compliance of the weight criteria by the Bureau of Indian Standards will be considered an offence. In addition to reducing total number of accidents in the country, this new rule will also eradicate low-quality and poorly made helmets from being sold in the market.
Helmet manufactures should now compulsorily abide by BIS norms and perform their operations. The new weight threshold will come to effect starting from 15th January 2019. So, a period of 6 months will be available for the manufacturers to comply with the new rules.
Furthermore, the new guideline stresses on the presence of ventilation hold so that the riders find it comfortable while driving. Importantly, the government has also announced that penalty will be imposed on usage of alternative options to helmets such as cricket helmet, industry helmet, caps, etc.
As a move to encourage more people buying the safety helmets, the ministry has also planned to bring down rates of ISI marked ones. There will however not be any compromise on the quality of making these helmets. The manufactures should mandatorily abide by the quality standards as mentioned by BIS certification norms.
Amidst these, president of Two-Wheeler Manufacturer Association has said that the government-imposed new standards are according to the speed limits followed in India and the riding conditions prevailing here. It will thus be more appropriate for designing and manufacturing helmets for two-wheelers.
