EN 13087-4:2012

Overview

EN 13087-4:2012 is a European Standard developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) that specifies test methods to assess the retention system effectiveness of protective helmets. It forms Part 4 of the EN 13087 series, which covers test methods for various helmet performance aspects, crucial for ensuring safety and reliability in head protective equipment. This standard focuses specifically on evaluating how well a helmet’s retention system (e.g., straps and fasteners) keeps the helmet securely in place under sudden forces, simulating real-world impacts.

By using this standard, manufacturers, testing laboratories, and regulatory bodies can verify if helmets meet the stringent performance criteria laid out in the corresponding helmet product standards. It supports the essential requirements of the EU Directive 89/686/EEC on Personal Protective Equipment, facilitating market compliance and user safety.

Key Topics

• Scope and Purpose
  EN 13087-4 defines the test procedure for assessing the effectiveness of helmet retention systems. Its primary objective is to measure a helmet’s ability to remain securely fitted on a test headform when subjected to a sudden force attempting to rotate or dislodge it.

• Test Equipment and Setup
  The test apparatus includes standardized headforms (according to EN 960), a rigid base, a falling mass with a guided drop mechanism, steel wire, pulleys, and precision instruments to measure impact speed. Test headforms are sized to mimic different head dimensions, ensuring relevance across helmet sizes.

• Testing Procedure
  Helmets are mounted onto the smallest suitable headform per size, with retention systems tightened according to fitting instructions. A falling mass (approx. 10 kg) is dropped to apply force at the front or rear edge of the helmet, provoking rotational movement. The test observes whether the helmet remains attached, and if partial rotation occurs, it measures the degree of displacement.

• Evaluation and Reporting
  Test results indicate whether the helmet dislodges completely or the extent of its rotation on the headform. Uncertainty of measurement is calculated and reported to assess data reliability. This information is critical for manufacturers to improve helmet design and for certifiers to determine compliance.

• Standard Updates
  This 2012 revision supersedes the 2000 edition, updating normative references and expanding test headform sizes. It maintains alignment with current EU regulatory mandates on personal protective equipment.

Applications

• Helmet Manufacturers
  Provide rigorous assessment of retention system designs to ensure helmets perform reliably under stress, improving wearer safety and achieving compliance with mandatory safety standards.

• Testing Laboratories
  Utilize the prescribed procedures to conduct standardized, repeatable tests that form part of the certification process for helmets used in cycling, motorcycling, construction, sports, and industrial environments.

• Regulatory Authorities
  Reference EN 13087-4 to enforce minimum safety requirements and assess conformity with EU directives concerning personal protective equipment.

• End-Users and Safety Professionals
  Benefit indirectly from helmets tested according to this standard, gaining confidence in the product’s ability to stay securely fastened during impacts, thus reducing risk of head injuries.

Related Standards

EN 13087-4 is part of a comprehensive testing suite for protective helmets, with the following related parts:

• EN 13087-1: Conditions and conditioning of helmets before testing
• EN 13087-2: Shock absorption testing
• EN 13087-3: Resistance to penetration
• EN 13087-5: Retention system strength
• EN 13087-6: Field of vision assessment
• EN 13087-7: Flame resistance
• EN 13087-8: Electrical properties
• EN 13087-9: Mechanical rigidity (forthcoming)
• EN 13087-10: Resistance to radiant heat

Additionally, EN 960:2006 defines headform specifications critical for the testing procedures outlined in this standard.

Keywords: EN 13087-4, protective helmets, retention system effectiveness, helmet test methods, helmet safety standards, head protective equipment, EU PPE Directive compliance, helmet retention test, helmet performance assessment, helmet certification testing.