Shoei Maintenance & Replacement
Helmet Maintenance
As various materials are used during the production of a safety helmet like plastics, FRP, EPS and textiles, these parts must always be cleaned in a manner to suit the given material.
1. FRP Outer Shell
Only commonly available helmet wax or plastic cleaning agents should be used to clean any dirt off the helmet's surface. Two or more component agents should only be used for partial treatment, e.g. in the event of scratches, and should be applied very sparingly to avoid damaging the paint work or high-gloss finish.
2. Plastic Parts incl. Helmet Shield
Plastic parts should not be cleaned with agents containing solvents (including any petrochemicals) as these are absorbed by the plastic material, cause its slow deterioration and thus increase the risk of breaking. Acid or alkali-based corrosive cleaning agents as well as window cleaner are equally unsuitable. The shield should only be cleaned with water and a neutral cleaning agent. Heavily soiled areas can be gently cleaned using a soft toothbrush or a cotton swab.
3 Comfort Padding
Removable parts should be removed and washed by hand or in a washing net in the washing machine. Fixed padding should be wiped with a damp cloth, again using only a neutral cleaning agent. After cleaning or washing, all parts should be thoroughly dried out of direct sunlight in order to prevent the development of unpleasant odors.
4. Impact Absorption Liner
As EPS is neither solvent nor heat-proof, the impact absorption liner must be treated with particular care during cleaning. As in all other cases, the liner should be cleaned using only a damp cloth in order to avoid scratches or indentations.
Helmet Replacement
Ultimately, the useful service life of a safety helmet is dependent on the intensity and frequency of its use. Helmet replacement is recommended even if only one of the under-mentioned points applies:
- The helmet was subjected to an impact.
- The comfort padding or the retention system has become loose due to heavy use or display signs of deterioration.
- The synthetic foam padding displays signs of heavy use and the helmet feels too loose. Test: with the retention system fastened, the helmet turns to the side when you gently shake your head.
- There are indentations in the EPS liner and/or white scratches can be seen on surfaces with black paint.
- Even if none of these is applied, we, SHOEI, recommend replacement in 5 years after it's first purchased at retail.
|
