Citation

Bishop PJ. J. Saf. Res. 1978; 10(3): 123-129.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1978, U.S. National Safety Council, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Three samples each of six different CS a-approved ice hockey helmet models were subjected to impact tests using a Hodgson-WSU headform and drop test apparatus. Each helmet was tested at the front, rear, and right side locations from drop heights of 0.9, 1.2, and 1.5 m. The results were compared to those found previously from impact tests at 0.6 m. The differences in peak deceleration between and within the helmet models observed at 0.6 m were generally maintained over the drop heights of 0.9, 1.2, and 1.5 m. Differences between some models were not observed until tested from drop heights of 1.2 m, however. Failure of the helmet shell in the form of a crack was observed for one model at 0.9 and 1.2 m Gadd severity Index results also revealed differences between and within helmet models, but the GSI never exceeded 1500. It was concluded that performance differences are amplified when helmets are tested at increasingly higher impact levels. Based on the GSI results, the helmets appear to provide satisfactory protection up to a drop height of 1.2 m. The appearance of cracks in the helmet shell and the amplification of differences between models when tested from drop heights greater than 0.6 m suggests that consideration should be given to modifying the standard for hockey helmets.