More than 327 headgears have been seized during nationwide raids by the Consumer Affairs Authority in Sri Lanka aimed at curbing the sale of substandard headgears. Helmets that do not have SLS 517 certification have been found during this operation.
Helmets play an important role in the safety of users of vehicles including motorcycles. In this case, the authorities have focused on the sale of helmets in the market without proper certification.
According to the information released by the Consumer Affairs Authority, a total of 84 tests have been conducted in 21 districts. Non-standard helmets are seized during these inspections and registered as case material.
This action has again highlighted the need to monitor the quality of helmets and regulations related to their sale at the market level. In particular, consumers have to be careful about the quality of products used for protection.
84 tests in 21 districts: Inquiry into SLS label
The authority said that during the nationwide inspections, more than 327 helmets were seized which did not have the appropriate SLS 517 certification. Arrangements have also been made to take legal action in this regard.
Meanwhile, Gampaha, Mullaitivu and Mannar districts have received complaints regarding misuse of the SLS label, officials said. Further investigations into these complaints are underway.
The mere presence of a certification mark on a product is not enough to ensure its quality. It is also important that the mark is used with proper permission. Consumers may be misled as to the true quality of the product if false marks regarding certification are used.
Against this backdrop, officials are checking the quality of helmets and also verifying the authenticity of the certification stamps used on them. Further information regarding the outcome of the investigations and the action taken against the concerned parties is yet to be released.
Helmets for children will also be tested
The Consumer Affairs Authority said that products without the SLS certification mark were found among helmets designed for children and small-sized helmets.
Helmets for babies and children must meet safety requirements. They cannot be excluded from standardized tests because they are small in size or made for children.
The authority noted that if such products are sold as safety helmets for users of motorcycles or other vehicles, they will also be tested against the SLS 517 standard.
There are three main aspects that should generally be considered in this matter. The first is whether the helmets being sold meet the relevant standards. The second is whether the SLS mark is being used legally and properly. The third is whether consumers buying security products have access to accurate information about their quality.
While buying a helmet, it is important to check not only its appearance or price, but also the quality and product details. At the same time, it is important to continue monitoring measures to prevent substandard products from being sold.
Investigations into the helmets seized by the Consumer Affairs Authority are ongoing. The public is also paying attention to how steps are being taken to prevent substandard products from being sold in the market.