Specifications for Helmets Designed for Electric Power-Assisted Bicycles in the EU: CEN/TS 17946
On October 31, 2023, the European Standards Committee released the CEN/TS17946:2023 specification for electric-assisted bicycle helmets. This specification, heavily influenced by the Dutch standard NTA 8776:2016-12, sets requirements for helmets used with S-EPAC (Speed Pedelec) bicycles. S-EPAC bicycles are defined as pedal-assisted electric bicycles weighing less than 35 kg, with a maximum power output of 4000W, and an electric-assisted top speed of 45 km/h.
The European Union’s Specification for Electric Power-Assisted Bicycle Helmets, known as CEN/TS17946, establishes comprehensive safety and performance guidelines for helmets used with electric power-assisted bicycles. This specification ensures that helmets provide optimal protection for riders of these specific types of bicycles, adhering to rigorous standards that focus on various key aspects such as structural durability, visibility, impact absorption, and overall helmet functionality. CEN/TS17946 aims to enhance the safety of electric bicycle users across the EU by ensuring that only helmets meeting these stringent criteria are used.
The CEN/TS17946:2023 addresses a variety of safety and performance aspects, including:
- Structural integrity
- Visibility range
- Impact energy absorption
- Durability
- Performance of wearable devices
- Testing for goggles, if included with the helmet
Specific requirements for goggles include:
- Material and surface quality
- Brightness reduction
- Light transmittance and its uniformity
- Visual clarity
- Refractive power and prism refractive power difference
- UV radiation resistance
- Shock resistance
- Resistance to fine particle surface damage
- Fog resistance
This technical specification aims to ensure the safety of electric bicycle users in the EU, mandating that only certified helmets meeting these standards can be used. Intertek offers comprehensive testing and certification services for both the CEN/TS17946:2023 and Dutch NTA8776 standards.
