The GAA and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) have released a warning over unsafe helmets being sold to Irish customers.
It comes as a number of unregulated helmets have begun to appear online for a fraction of the price.
Wearing an unsafe GAA helmet can mean a serious risk of injury if a player is hit by a hurley or sliotar.
Pat Kenny of the CCPC, warns that the price tag is an indicator of the quality. He outlines what players should be looking out for when buying a new helmet:
"Look for the CE mark before you purchase and make sure you buy from a reputable trader", he says.
"When it arrives make sure that is well constructed and fully assembled; there are no rough edges or screws sticking out.
"That's a dead giveaway that this is not a proper helmet, because this couldn't be protecting you."
To lower the risk of a serious accident such as concussion, facial or eye injury, the advice from the GAA and CCPC to consumers is to be aware of the following safety checks when purchasing a helmet:
- Assembled helmet: A safe helmet should arrive already assembled. You should not need to attach a faceguard
- CE Marking: If there is no CE mark, don’t buy it. Also look out for any signs of poor quality, such as misspellings on the branding
- Obvious dangers: Watch out for sharp edges, sharp points, rough surfaces, or protruding screws. Do not wear your helmet if you find any of these dangers
- Modification: Do not modify your helmet in any way after you buy it. Do not cut a hole in or remove the faceguard
Some further tips when purchasing a GAA helmet include:
- Reputable retailer: Buy from reputable and trustworthy retail channels
- Caution if purchasing online: Be particularly careful if you are thinking of buying from an online marketplace or social media platform
- Safety marks and information: Once the helmet is delivered, make sure the product displays the CE mark and the name, location and contact details of the manufacturer
- EU Business: Where possible buy from a business based in the EU for stronger consumer rights if there does turn out to be an issue with your helmet
