Helmet Safety in Focus: Why BIS-Certified Helmets Are Crucial for Two-Wheeler Riders in India
Helmet Safety in Focus: Why BIS-Certified Helmets Are Crucial for Two-Wheeler Riders in India
Pune, July 13, 2025: With two-wheelers accounting for 44.5% of road accident deaths in India, helmet safety has once again taken centre stage. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the Department of Consumer Affairs have intensified their crackdown on fake and substandard helmets, urging citizens to choose BIS-certified helmets (IS 4151:2015) to protect themselves on the roads.
Why Helmets Matter: Beyond a Legal Obligation
Road accidents claim thousands of lives annually, and two-wheeler riders are among the most vulnerable. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), proper helmet usage reduces the risk of death in a crash by six times and cuts the likelihood of brain injury by 74%.
In India, however, helmet use is often driven by fear of penalties rather than genuine safety awareness. Many riders wear helmets only near traffic police checkpoints, removing them once out of sight. This behaviour highlights a critical gap in road safety education.
Helmets, once rudimentary protective gear, have evolved into scientifically engineered lifesavers. Yet, the widespread availability of uncertified, low-cost helmets continues to put lives at risk.
The Perils of Fake Helmets
Not all helmets are created equal. Cheap variants sold at traffic junctions or roadside stalls often lack the structural integrity needed to absorb impact during crashes. These substandard products, despite resembling genuine helmets, fail crucial safety tests and provide only an illusion of security.
Recognising this urgent threat, the Indian government made BIS certification mandatory for all two-wheeler helmets in 2021. Only helmets conforming to IS 4151:2015 are legally permitted.
What Makes BIS-Certified Helmets Different?
BIS-certified helmets undergo rigorous testing, including:
✔ Impact absorption using weighted drop tests.
✔ Chin strap strength under dynamic forces.
✔ Peripheral vision checks to ensure rider visibility.
✔ Sound permeability to allow riders to hear traffic.
✔ Durability against temperature extremes, moisture, and corrosion.
These helmets feature a three-layer design—a hard outer shell for penetration resistance, energy-absorbing foam, and comfort padding for a secure fit.
In contrast, counterfeit helmets often crack upon impact or fly off during falls. They bypass mandatory tests, putting users in grave danger.
BIS’s Crackdown on Illegal Helmets
In 2024–25, BIS carried out over 30 search-and-seizure operations, testing 500+ helmets nationwide. Notably, 2,500 uncertified helmets were seized from nine manufacturers in Delhi operating with expired licenses. Another 500 substandard helmets were confiscated from roadside vendors in 17 locations across India.
BIS is now collaborating with District Magistrates, police, and traffic authorities to curb the sale of unsafe helmets. Awareness campaigns, such as Quality Connect, and public roadshows in cities like Chennai are educating riders about the importance of certification.
How to Verify a Helmet’s Authenticity
Consumers can check the authenticity of helmets via:
✔ BIS Care App – Scan and verify manufacturer details.
✔ BIS Portal – Report fake or suspicious products online.
These tools empower buyers to make informed choices and avoid counterfeit products.
The Bigger Picture: A Shift in Mindset Needed
“Helmets are not just about avoiding fines—they are shields against irreversible trauma,” stressed a BIS official.
Riders are urged to prioritise safety over style or price. Choosing a certified helmet could mean the difference between life and death.
As India’s roads grow busier with over 21 crore two-wheelers, the message is clear: Wear BIS-certified helmets not to dodge challans, but to save lives.
