FIA Foundation

Photo Caption: Assistant Superintendent Dellon Lewis (left) and Kevon Clayton, member of the National Hemet Wearing Coalition examine a helmet during a planning session that discussed the development of a framework for helmet testing and regulation in Jamaica. The discussion took place a the Bureau of Standards Jamaica, recently. Looking on is Sydoney Preddie, project manager for road safety and road users at the JN Foundation.

Helmets are critical for safety, whether you’re riding a bike, motorcycle, or engaging in any high-risk activity that could result in injuries to the head. However, not all helmets are created equal and understanding the nuances can make the difference between safety and serious injury.

According to Dr Terry Smith, principal scientist at Galeatus and technical consultant for helmet safety supporting the JN Foundation National Hemet Wearing Coalition project, one of the most crucial aspects of a helmet is its compliance with a recognised safety standard.

Speaking to stakeholders in motorcycle safety at a recent workshop hosted by the project, Dr Smith explained that not all helmets meet the same safety standards.

Alluding to the four standards named in Jamaica’s Road Safety Act (RTA), he indicated a preference for the Department of Transportation (DOT) standards (the United States standard) or, the ECE 22 standard (the European Standard), which are  recognised around the world as standards that provide excellent head protection for motorcyclists.

“These standards ensure the helmet will remain on your head and absorb significant impact energy during a crash,” he added.

He warned that there are online and brick-and-mortar retailers who sell what are known as “novelty helmets” that do not meet safety standards. There are also fake DOT labels being sold to put on these unsafe helmets.

“Novelty helmets are unsafe and will not protect you in the event of a crash. They should not be purchased and should not be worn while operating or riding on a motorcycle,” he explained.

Dr Smith, who is a technical consultant to the FIA Foundation, funders of the project, also noted that helmet fit is important. “A helmet that is too loose or too tight can compromise safety. We recommend trying on several helmets to find one that fits snugly without causing discomfort. The helmet should sit level on the head and low on the forehead, with the bottom edge about one to two finger widths above your eyebrows. The chin straps should fit comfortably under your chin when buckled,” he informed.

He explained that everyone’s head is shaped differently, and as such helmets come in different styles – round oval, intermediate oval and long oval. Therefore, it is important to determine the best helmet that fits the shape of one’s head before purchasing a helmet.

The material of a helmet greatly influences its effectiveness. Most helmets are made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which absorbs impact energy. Some higher-end models use materials like carbon fibre, which offer superior strength and lighter weight. The outer shell, usually made of polycarbonate or fibreglass, protects against penetration and distributes the impact forces over a large area.

Advancements in technology have led to innovations in helmet design. Concussion reducing technologies such as the Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) technology, for example, is becoming increasingly popular. These helmets feature a low-friction layer inside that allows the helmet to slide relative to the head, thus reducing the rotational forces that can cause brain injuries.

Dr Smith cautioned that a helmet that has been involved in an accident should be replaced immediately, even if it shows no visible signs of damage. The foam inside the helmet can compress, reducing its ability to absorb impact.

“Additionally, helmets should generally be replaced every five years, as exposure to sweat, UV rays, and other environmental factors can degrade the materials over time,” he explained.

Proper care can extend the life of your helmet. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in your car, where temperatures can soar and degrade the materials. Clean the helmet with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage the interior foam and straps.

Sydoney Preddie, project manager for road safety and road users at the JN Foundation, underscored the importance of wearing a helmet.

“The National Helmet Wearing Coalition is committed to educating motorcycle drivers to identify and correctly use standardised helmets to increase their chances of survival in the event of a crash. We continue to advocate for these helmets within the Jamaican market. Affordable certified standardised helmets are available from numerous international suppliers, making this task achievable within the Jamaican context.”

Aggie Krasnolucka, Programmes Director at the London-based FIA Foundation, says Jamaica’s National Helmet Wearing Coalition (NHWC) has the potential to be as successful as similar initiatives established around the world, including in Vietnam. Among other things, the work of the Coalition in Vietnam has contributed to the passage of a mandatory helmet law in the country which has saved thousands of lives.

Speaking after the launch and inaugural meeting of the NHWC in Jamaica, the FIA Programmes Director said Jamaica’s Coalition has the capacity to attain similar achievements, noting that each member brings to the table their own skills, knowledge and experience on motorcycle issues and safety.

“Vietnam is a success case but the helmet safety work in Vietnam has been going on for over a decade. Over 15,000 lives and $3.5 billion have been saved, but it takes time. I am very hopeful that we will see similar improvements here in Jamaica. There are people here who have fantastic skills and they’re very well prepared, ambitious and quite enthusiastic about this work,” she said.

The National Helmet Wearing Coalition in Jamaica is public-private partnership comprising the JN Foundation, which is coordinating the project, the National Road Safety Council (NRSC), government, as well as the police, transportation associations, advocacy groups, academia, parish development committees and international organisations. The initiative is being funded by the FIA Foundation- the charity arm of the world governing body for motorsports- and is targeted at raising awareness about motorcycle helmet safety, and promoting the use of certified helmets through regulation and behaviour change.

At the Coalition’s first meeting, members discussed potential activities in line with the action plan frameworks and models. Ms Krasnolucka, said she was impressed by the discussion, but hastened to advise that the success of the project in Jamaica will require concerted effort and input from various levels, including government.

“We need to see the policymakers playing their part, creating policies that are fit for the context and really support the change that we want to see. We want to see the private sector stepping forward and doing their part in supporting activities that will be taking place as part of the action plan of the Coalition,” she said.  “We need to see civil society being proactive, advocating for change; we need media to do their bit to promote good behaviour; and most of all, we need motorcycle riders to be involved in this process,” she stressed.

­Omar Wright, Lead for Environment and Community Development Programmes at JN Foundation, outlined the roles and responsibilities of the Coalition during the inaugural meeting. He said members will be expected to attend at least four meetings each year and they may also be called upon to work in one or multiple working groups aligned to the objectives of the Coalition. He also called for members to take the initiative to identify new opportunities and partners that can support the activities and goals of the Coalition.

“We do not have all the information and happenings at the local level, and we will depend on our members to share information about what sort of tactics might work for the population that we are trying to reach,” he said. “We will also call upon members to share their views, their ideas, their suggestions, because we know that together we can create the solutions that we are seeking to bring about,” he added.

Project Manager for Road Safety and Road User Education at JN Foundation, Sydoney Preddie, added that the ultimate priority of the Coalition will be to help reduce the number of motorcyclists experiencing fatal or severe injuries from a collision. Currently, anecdotal data shows that in 80 per cent of collisions involving motorcyclists, bikers and their pillions either die or are severely injured because they were not wearing a helmet.

“We want to see more certified helmets on heads. We want to at least bring down that 80 per cent and so we look forward to working together to achieve that. This project is about promoting helmet safety and highlighting the standards that are in place,” she said.

Photo Caption: Thomas Smith, Managing Director, JN General Insurance Company

A leading insurance company is commending the JN Foundation, in partnership with the National Road Safety Council and the UK-based FIA Foundation, for the establishment of the National Helmet Wearing Coalition in Jamaica on March 21.

JN General Insurance (JNGI), which views the initiative as a significant step towards enhancing road safety and saving lives, underscored the urgent need to address road safety concerns and implement preventive measures to reduce accidents and fatalities on Jamaican roads.

“The launch of the National Helmet Wearing Coalition aligns with the broader objectives of JNGI to promote responsible behaviour and mitigate risks associated with road use. Through our advocacy for helmet wearing, we actively champion safer roads, thereby playing a key role in safeguarding lives,” said Thomas Smith, Managing Director, JNGI, and road safety advocate.

“Road safety is a collective responsibility and initiatives such as the Coalition exemplify the power of partnership in effecting positive change,” he added.

The National Helmet Wearing Coalition aims to promote and advocate for the widespread adoption of certified standardised helmet use among motorcyclists and pillion riders across the island. Recognizing the alarming statistics surrounding road accidents and fatalities, particularly among vulnerable road users, the coalition endeavours to raise awareness about the importance of helmet wearing as a preventive measure.

Mr Smith pointed out that with road traffic injuries remaining a significant public health concern, advocating for helmet use, will seek to mitigate the risk of head injuries and fatalities, ultimately saving lives and reducing the burden on the healthcare system.

“Every life lost on our roads is one too many. As an insurance provider, we witness firsthand the devastating impact of road crashes. We therefore reinforce our commitment to fostering safer roads,” he said.

Statistics provided by the Road Safety Unit in Ministry of Transport and Mining show that as of March 26, motorcyclists account for 39 per cent of users killed since the beginning of the year, while pillion passengers account for four per cent of the fatalities.

In addition to helmet wearing, the insurer recommends that motorcyclists observe the following tips to bolster road safety:

• Wear Protective Gear: These include gloves and jackets specifically designed for motorcycling. This gear can provide added protection in case of a crash or slide.
• Maintain Motorcycle: Ensure your motorcycle is properly maintained by checking brakes, tyres and lights regularly. A well-maintained motorcycle is safer and performs better on the road.
• Stay Visible: Wear brightly coloured or reflective clothing to enhance visibility, especially at night. Use reflective tape on motorcycle to improve visibility to other motorists.
• Obey Traffic Laws: Follow all road laws including speed limits and traffic signals. Avoid weaving in and out of traffic and always use turn signals when changing lanes or making turns.
• Stay Alert and Focused: Remain attentive at all times while riding. Avoid distractions such as using a mobile phone. Focus on the road ahead for potential hazards and anticipate the actions of other motorists.
• Avoid Riding Under the Influence: Never ride a motorcycle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication that impairs your ability to operate the motorcycle safely. Alcohol and drugs significantly impair reaction time, coordination, and judgment.

“Safe riding habits and staying vigilant on the road can help protect you and others from crashes and injuries,” Mr Smith emphasised.