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by Tricia Burroughs-Bishop, NOCSAE Communications
NOCSAE standards set up a throughline of quality and protection all along the life of compliant equipment. Recertification and reconditioning are part of this throughline of athlete protection.
Recertification primarily applies to football helmets and faceguards and lacrosse helmets and faceguards. In addition, some softball and baseball helmets are eligible for recertification.
Recertification and Reconditioning
Recertification testing must occur as part of a reconditioning process because the sample helmets, which are randomly selected for testing, must be tested both before and after they are reconditioned.
Labeling
Recertified helmets must have a recertification label that includes the name of the recertifying firm and the year of recertification. This label may be placed on the interior or exterior of the shell in an area in which it can be easily read without removal of any permanent component. In addition, the label contains the following language: “This helmet has been recertified according to procedures established to meet the NOCSAE Standard.”
Reconditioners and Recertifiers
Although NOCSAE does not recertify (or certify) equipment, we do license reconditioning companies to recertify equipment. Most of these licensees are National Athletic Equipment Reconditioners Association (NAERA) members. The recertification process involves special expertise and highly technical testing procedures to ensure athletic equipment continues to meet NOCSAE’s standards.
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