Subjective Evaluation of the Helmet Users Regarding Comfort Features of the Helmet

"Introduction A motorcycle helmet is a necessary safety feature for every rider and passenger on a motorcycle, just like a seat belt in a car. A helmet is the best protective gear you can wear while riding a motorcycle. A motorcycle helmet is a type of helmet (Protective headgear) used by motorcycle riders. The primary goal of a motorcycle helmet is to protect the rider’s head from injury or saving the rider’s life (Wikipedia). Objectives To conduct subjective evaluation of the helmet users regarding comfort features of the helmet. To assess the features to be changed in helmet according to users. Setting and Participants: One hundred and sixty helmet users were selected for the study who have a user experience of above 2 hours per day, in the Lucknow district of Uttar Pradesh. Methodology: The time taken for the study was one year that is July2013 to May 2014. In the present study, exploratory and causal research design was used to obtain and analyze the data. For selection of the respondents, purposive sampling technique was adopted. Self made questionnaire was used to investigate the prevalence of subjective evaluation of the helmet users regarding comfort features of the helmet. Statistical Analysis: SPSS 20.0 software was used for statistical processing. The levels of features to be changed in helmet according to users were also calculated with the help of frequency and ANOVA. Results and Discussion: The findings of ANOVA test revealed a significant difference between the features to be considered while purchasing helmet and changed in helmet according to helmet users on various age in motorcycle helmets. Conclusion: From the study, it can be concluded that the clearly indicates that users follow the changing trends of fashion. Majority of users use helmet for less than 2 hours followed by 2-4 hours. It may also be noted that majority of the users wear helmet, as they feel it safe and some wear it because it is compulsory. For maximum head protection, the helmet must be of proper size. Select the helmet size which is closest to the head size. If the size of the helmet is too large, it may slip off form the head in case of an accident thus defeating the very purpose of wearing a helmet. If the helmet is too small for the head, it may not be comfortable to wear. "