Delhi, 5 July (H.S.): The Department of Consumer Affairs and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) urge consumers in India to exclusively use BIS-certified helmets, emphasizing strict enforcement against the manufacture or sale of non-certified helmets. With over 21 crore two-wheelers, rider safety is crucial, as the effectiveness of helmets hinges on their quality. Sub-standard helmets can jeopardize safety, prompting the implementation of a Quality Control Order mandating ISI-marked helmets (IS 4151:2015) for all two-wheeler riders since 2021.

Currently, 176 manufacturers possess valid BIS licenses for protective helmets. However, many roadside helmets lack the mandatory certification, increasing risks and fatalities in road accidents. To combat this issue, BIS performs regular factory and market surveillance; in the last financial year alone, over 500 helmet samples were tested, resulting in over 30 searches and the confiscation of thousands of non-compliant helmets.

In response, the Department has called on District Collectors and Magistrates to initiate a nationwide campaign aimed at manufacturers and retailers of non-compliant helmets. This initiative addresses growing safety concerns and aligns with existing road safety campaigns. Collaboration between BIS, district administrations, and police departments has produced promising results, particularly in the Delhi NCR region.

Additionally, a successful roadshow in Chennai promoted ISI-marked helmets and safety regulations alongside traffic authorities, while outreach efforts via media and civil society collaborations have raised awareness. To assist consumers, BIS introduced a feature on the BIS Care App and portal for checking manufacturer licenses and lodging complaints, reinforcing consumer awareness through the Quality Connect campaign involving ‘Manak Mitra’ volunteers.

Ultimately, the Department of Consumer Affairs is dedicated to enhancing consumer protection and road safety, striving to eliminate sub-standard helmets to prevent road accident fatalities and ensure the use of high-quality safety gear.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar