Now Reading: BIS introduces first Indian standard for bicycle helmets
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BIS introduces first Indian standard for bicycle helmets
The Bureau of Indian Standards has introduced IS 18808, India’s first specific standard for helmets used by cyclists, skateboarders and roller skaters. The standard was brought in during 2025, and manufacturers can…
The Story in Brief
The Bureau of Indian Standards has introduced IS 18808, India’s first specific standard for helmets used by cyclists, skateboarders and roller skaters. The standard was brought in during 2025, and manufacturers can apply for BIS certification and use the ISI mark after meeting prescribed criteria. BIS has begun awareness efforts with cycling and running groups, including in Chennai. Helmet use for bicycles remains voluntary because bicycles do not fall under the Motor Vehicles Act. Retailers say many helmets are imported and cost from Rs 3,500 onwards. The World Health Organisation says quality helmets can cut the risk of death by over six times and brain injury by up to 74%.
The Indian Opinion
The easy claim that a new standard will suddenly make cycling safe is overstated. ISI marking can improve product assurance, but voluntary use, high prices and limited availability still matter. The opposite claim, that imported helmets are automatically unsafe, is just as lazy, since retailers report many imported products meet good safety standards. Better enforcement may help later, but the immediate test is whether certified helmets become affordable and widely available beyond specialist shops.
Source: thehindu.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
