Strict legal action enforced against helmets without SLS

Mandatory regulations are established on locally manufactured or imported helmets to exhibit the Sri Lanka Standards (SLS) certification mark, the Consumer Affairs Authority stated.

Extraordinary gazette notification number 1923/65 dated July 16, 2015, specifically mandates this standard under direction number 59.

Production, importation, distribution, warehousing, display, or sale of helmets lacking this emblem remains entirely illegal.

Special islandwide raids executed on July 27 resulted in 98 successful operations yielding over 431 non-compliant helmets seized into custody.

Furthermore, authorities suspended the sale of 3,520 helmets manufactured during unrenewed licensing periods across two separate factories.

Enforcement efforts spanning January through June of 2026 generated 53 filed cases alongside 87 seized units, concluding 39 legal proceedings while 14 remain active in courts.

Manufacturers and traders face strict warnings against producing units devoid of valid licensing, while importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, mobile vendors, and online merchants must avoid storing or vending uncertified headgear.

Consumers received direct appeals to avoid purchasing inferior uncertified options based solely on lower pricing.

Pre-purchase checks verifying the certification mark alongside obtaining proper receipts remain essential, while the public can report illegal manufacturing or sales during office hours via the 1977 hotline.