NOCSAE Voids Certification of Cascade R, Warrior Regulator Helmets
NOCSAE historically relies on manufacturers to self-certify products supported by their own testing. But after receiving the information, NOCSAE conducted its own tests and determined the R and Regulator did not comply with standard ND041.
Oliver said the models failed certain helmet drops at room temperature (72 degrees), at the highest velocity impacts (17.94 feet per second) on the top and front locations, although they passed at lower velocity impacts and at different locations, and also demonstrated failures during high-temperature impact testing
Additionally, Oliver said neither company could provide enough internal, quality control testing data to support their claims that the helmets did, in fact, meet the standard based on their own testing.
"This is the first time that our investigation has actually gotten to this point," Oliver said when asked if decertifying the helmets was a first for NOCSAE, which was founded in 1969 in response to fatalities due to head and neck injuries in football. "We have conducted other investigations in the past, but the problems were not as severe or obvious, and there were solutions available short of decertifying helmets in the field."
Under NCAA, NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) and US Lacrosse rules, helmets are required to meet the NOCSAE standard, meaning the voided certifications affected all levels and raised concerns with high school and college seasons rapidly approaching.
Until the helmets are recertified, a process that includes an independent quality control audit, Oliver said, "It would be fair to say that the helmets are unsafe for use." He added that it could be possible for both models to pass with modifications.