Transport for NSW (TfNSW) has thrown its support behind a new guide on the production of motorcycle protective gear to help boost rider safety.
Deputy Secretary of Safety, Environment and Regulation at TfNSW, Sally Webb said TfNSW and Road Safety Victoria had funded the publication of Deakin University’s Guide to Designing and Manufacturing Motorcycle Protective Clothing.
Ms Webb said the guide aimed to increase the quality and effectiveness of motorcycle jackets and pants on the market by providing manufacturers with scientifically based information.
“Sadly, 210 motorcyclists on average die in road crashes in Australia each year while more than 8,000 are hospitalised,” Ms Webb said.
“Effective motorcycle protective clothing can make a significant difference in the event of a crash – reducing the risk and severity of rider injuries,” she said.
“The information published in the guide will be extremely useful for manufacturers across the world, to determine the best materials and methods for making higher quality protective clothing for riders.”
Ms Webb said that while manufacturers in Europe and the United States currently dominated the market, the guide also provided an opportunity to boost local industry.
“With the majority of manufacturers in Australia and New Zealand being generally smaller to medium-sized enterprises, most are not in a position to access a testing facility and conduct their own research and development,” the Deputy Secretary said.
“This guide offers them access to information that will help create safer and more comfortable gear and in turn increase access to clothing better suited to our local climate and conditions.”
The university’s 103-page guide can be accessed at this PS News link.
