New safety standards: ECE 22-06 motorcycle helmets heading towards 2024

The safety of motorcyclists' heads is a major issue for manufacturers and official organizations. The latest example is the announcement of a new certification, ECE 22-06, which will be implemented starting in 2024. This standard will gradually replace the current ECE 22-05, bringing a series of improvements and innovations to ensure better protection for users.

ECE 22-06: evolution and novelties

The ECE 22-06 standard differs from its previous version by the integration of comprehensive and more demanding performance criteria, as well as testing methods adapted to the latest technological advances in motorcycle helmet safety. Several key points to remember are:

• Improvement of materials and their resistance: the external and internal structure of the helmet must be designed to minimize the risks of serious injuries in case of shock or fall.
• Updates on measurement methods and tools: such as the use of more efficient dummies in impact testing, allowing for effective simulation of accidents with different sizes and body types.
• Better consideration of oblique impacts: these impacts are among the most dangerous, particularly in causing brain injuries and spinal damage. Therefore, the new standard includes a specific test to evaluate the helmet's performance against this type of accident.
• A less "prescriptive" testing protocol: this means that manufacturers will be more encouraged to innovate and propose new solutions to meet the desired safety objectives without being constrained by overly rigid procedures.

Ultimately, the primary goal of the ECE 22-06 standard is to assure consumers a product that is increasingly high-performing and suited to their needs, by better taking into account the realities of the field and the demands of the motorcycle market.

Focus on Airoh and its ECE 22-06 certification

The Italian manufacturer Airoh is one of the notable examples in this movement towards ECE 22-06 certification by unveiling some of its latest innovations in helmet safety. The research and development efforts have enabled the brand to develop a range of products that will not only meet the criteria of ECE 22-06 but also anticipate future needs in terms of motorcyclist protection.

New materials and manufacturing methods

Airoh particularly emphasizes the robustness and lightness of its helmets, using high-strength compounds for the shells such as carbon, aramid (Kevlar), or fiberglass. The aim is to ensure maximum absorption of impact energy while keeping the weight as low as possible.

Furthermore, the brand has also evolved its production methods to optimize helmet design and reduce quality or tolerance issues. A notable example is the use of computer-aided design (CAD), which allows for much more precision in the various stages of the process.

Innovative systems to prevent serious injuries

Beyond materials and overall helmet construction, Airoh is innovating with devices specifically designed to prevent the consequences of accidents. Notable examples include:

• The MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System): this is a membrane placed between the outer shell and the inner lining, allowing the helmet to slide during an oblique impact and therefore better dissipate energy without damaging the head.
• The introduction of sensors integrated into the helmet: these sensors could be used to send important information to emergency responders in case of an accident, such as the motorcyclist's GPS location and medical status even before their arrival on the scene.

In summary, it is clear that new standards like ECE 22-06 will impact the motorcycle helmet market and its safety, forcing manufacturers to innovate to provide products better suited to the real needs of motorcyclists. And with the involvement of key players like Airoh in this initiative, we can hope for a significant improvement in the quality of helmets distributed starting in 2024.