Effect of helmet use on visual and auditory reaction time and peripheral field of vision

Abstract

Background: In many Asian countries, motorcycles are an important means of transportation. The effectivity of helmets in reducing head injuries is studied, but the effect of helmets on the auditory and visual reaction time and peripheral field of vision of riders is of great concern. Moreover, the Indian markets are providing a large range of substandard helmets. Hence, the present study was designed to assess the effect of standard and substandard helmets on vision and hearing. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the following parameters - auditory reaction time, visual reaction time and peripheral field of vision without helmet, with standard helmet, and with substandard helmet and compare the same statistically. Materials and Methods: This comparative study was done in 57 subjects of the age group 18–25 years. The auditory and visual reaction time and peripheral field of vision were noted. A well informed written consent was taken from all the subjects. The statistical analysis was done by analysis of variance test and Paired “t”- test. Results: The helmet (standard and substandard) does not cause any significant change in visual reaction time and auditory reaction time for low-frequency sound as compared to without helmet. The auditory reaction time for high-frequency sound was significantly reduced in the substandard helmet. The field of vision is significantly decreased by the helmets in all four directions. Conclusion: A quiet, lighter, full-face helmet with minimum restriction of the field of vision should be redesigned. The use of substandard helmets should be discouraged.