Enjoy riding bicycles? Did you know the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has come up with a specific standard for helmets for cyclists, skate boarders and roller skaters — for the first time, and it is coded “IS 18808”. The move by BIS to nudge all stakeholders to promote ISI-marked helmet is crucial for a country where helmet use for non-powered vehicles is only voluntary (bicycles do not come under Motor Vehicles Act).

G. Bhavani, senior director and head of Chennai branch of Bureau of Indian Standards, says BIS has brought this standard in 2025 exclusively for bicycle riders, skateboarders and roller skaters. In April, the Bureau conducted its first awareness workshop in Chennai and continues to reach stakeholders including cycling groups such as WCCG – Chennai Cyclists, Cycling Yogis and Chennai Runners.