EN1384 and VG1

Standard Development and Scope of Application

1. EN1384 Standard

• Developing Organization: European Committee for Standardization (CEN)

• Scope of Application: Primarily intended for equestrian helmets, including those with visors, catering to individuals engaged in activities such as horse riding, training, management, and horse care.

2. VG1 Standard

• Developing Organization: Initially developed in accordance with British standards, later adopted by the entire European Union.

• Scope of Application: Also tailored for equestrian helmets used in competitive riding, performances, leisurely rides, and other related activities.

Testing Requirements and Projects

1. EN1384 Standard

• Structural Integrity: Helmets must maintain their structural integrity after impact.

• Impact Absorption Performance: Helmets should effectively absorb a certain level of impact energy to mitigate head injuries.

• Penetration Resistance: Helmets must resist penetration by sharp objects.

• Lateral Mechanical Strength: Helmets should retain their structural strength under lateral deformation.

• Stability of the Wear System: Ensures that the helmet does not fall off due to vibration or bumpiness.

• Field of View: Ensures that the helmet design does not obstruct the wearer's vision.

• Other Requirements: Includes deformation limits for visors (if present), labeling, and information requirements.

2. VG1 Standard

• Testing Projects: Includes impact, retention force, and visor tests (where applicable), as well as penetration and crushing tests.

• Testing Requirements: Compared to the EN1384 standard, the VG1 standard may focus more on specific testing projects, such as visor testing and crushing tests.

Certification Process and Marks

1. EN1384 Standard

• Certification Process: Involves sample preparation, technical documentation, testing by a testing organization, evaluation of test results, and issuance of certification.

• Certification Mark: Obtaining CE certification is crucial for helmets complying with the EN1384 standard. CE certification signifies that the helmet meets the health, safety, and environmental protection requirements of the European Economic Area (EEA).

2. VG1 Standard

• Certification Process: Typically involves a similar testing process, including sample preparation, test execution, and result evaluation.

• Certification Mark: Helmets passing the VG1 certification will receive a corresponding certification mark, indicating their compliance with the standard's requirements.

Conclusion

In summary, both the EN1384 and VG1 standards play pivotal roles in the realm of helmet safety. They differ in terms of standard-setting organizations, scopes of application, testing requirements and projects, as well as certification processes and marks. When selecting equestrian helmets, it is essential to choose those that comply with the appropriate standards based on specific needs and activity types. Additionally, always check for certification marks on helmets to ensure they meet the relevant standard requirements.

VG1 is another safety standard used in Europe. Helmets that meet VG1 standards have passed tests that check how well they protect against both direct impacts and glancing blows. VG1 aims to keep helmets up to date with the latest safety research. So, if you’re in Europe or using a helmet imported from there, VG1 is a good sign of quality. The latest VG1 standard is VG1 01.040 2014-12. To make the standards in Europe more streamlined, the VG1 standard has been replaced by EN1384, which was enacted in 2023. Helmets marked with either the VG1 01.040 2014-12 or EN1384 standard are excellent choices for safety!