CPSC warns consumers of bicycleThe Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning consumers about an impalement hazard from the exposed ends of metal handlebars on bicycles.

According to the CPSC, six impalement deaths and 2,000 emergency room visits in connection to exposed bicycle handlebars have occurred over the last 20 years. This hazard takes place when the rubber handlebar grips to metal bicycle handles are pulled off or worn down at the ends from day-to-day use. Then, the handlebar can impale the consumer if they fall from their bicycles onto the exposed end of the handlebars.

Currently, CPSC 16 CFR 1512 — Requirements for Bicycles is the only required safety standard for bicycles in the US and is adopted by many countries across the globe. While this requirement includes testing bicycle handlebar grips with the “pull off” test, it does not test for the wearing of the handlebar grips that can lead to the exposure of the sharp metal handlebars beneath.

In order to adequately address this impalement hazard warning, ACT Lab is advising bicycle companies and manufacturers to test their products to the ASTM F2793 Standard Specification for Bicycle Grips. This standard, while not required, compliments CPSC 16 CFR 1512 and can serve as an extra safety precaution with more thorough bicycle grip testing.

ACT Lab is also able to work with bicycle companies to create custom tests to address this issue more thoroughly to further protect companies and consumers.

Please contact us at 562-470-7215 or info@act-lab.com for more information.