[Andonyx]

Re: DOT Standards

My MSF instructor and the video we watched claim that the DOT certification is no gurantee of ANYTHING. This is because DOT certification is based on signed documents ONLY, and not actual testing. The DOT has created a set of standards which manufacturers who want the seal sign a statment saying they uphold, but are never tested.

In other words having the DOT cert is just a promise that your helmet meets DOT standards, not an actual proof.

At least that's what the MSF chick said.

 

[Andonyx]

And apparently the nice lady at the MSF class was correct. According to this:



DOT Approved Helmets

How can you tell a helmet is DOT approved? Typically a sticker on the rear of the helmet with the letters "DOT."

How does the DOT monitor compliance with FMVSS 218? Would you be surprised to learn it's based on the honor system? Yes, you read that correct. The government relies on the manufacturer's word that the helmet was tested and passed!

Does the government do any testing? Yes, they do very, very limited testing of helmets. How limited? In 2001, they tested 40 helmets. Under the honor system, we shouldn't have to test any helmets.

What if a helmet fails? They publish the data and rely on the manufacturer to bring the product into compliance. In 2001, 20% of the tested helmets failed the performance tests. Helmets manufactured by AFX, Fulmer, HJC, M2R, NEXL and THH. At a 20% failure rate, do you think there are others out there that might fail the performance test?

http://dot-helmet.motorhelmets.com/

 

[Andonyx]

I guess I don't really greet this news with surprise anymore, just a prolonged sigh.