NCJ Number
91529
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 50 Issue: 10 Dated: (October 1983) Pages: 67-71
Date Published
1983
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Twenty-seven helmet models -- 14 riot helmets (seven with face shields) and 13 crash helmets -- were tested to determine impact attenuation, penetration resistance, and chin-strap retention characteristics.
Abstract
The test were conducted under four environmental conditions: ambient, low temperature (14 degrees F.), high temperature (122 degrees F.), and ambient temperature following immersion in water. The standards also include requirements for proper product labeling, peripheral vision (field of unobstructed view to the side of the helmet), and inside/outside projections. Face shields were subjected to mechanical testing to determine impact protection and retention characteristics, and optical tests were conducted to determine the parameters of light transmission, distortion, and the refractive/resolving power. None of the 27 models submitted for testing complied with the labeling requirements; however, one riot helmet and eight crash helmets complied with all physical performance requirements under all environmental conditions. Only one face shield complied with all performance requirements, but the helmet to which it was attached did not. Tabular data present overall test results, helmet characteristics, and test results for face shields, riot helmets, and crash helmets separately.