Recalls in Review: A monthly spotlight on trending regulatory enforcement issues at the CPSC.
As bicycles become a go-to social distancing option for consumers, we turn our attention in this Recalls in Review segment to an associated (and also closely regulated) product—bicycle helmets. The CPSC mandates that all bicycle helmets manufactured or imported since March 17, 1995 meet the standard set forth in 16 CFR Part 1203.1(c). This mandatory standard covers bicycle helmets and multipurpose helmets that can be used when riding a bicycle. The standard does not cover helmets marketed for exclusive use in another designated activity, such as baseball or skateboarding. (16 CFR Part 1203.4(b)).
The Commission has conducted 26 bicycle helmet recalls, with the first occurring in 1995 and the latest just last week. CPSC attention to helmets remains fairly steady over time, with at least one recall most years, and no significant enforcement “spikes” at any point.
