helmet - trash or recyclable?

[martinkap]

Who publishes the "5 year rule?" Unless it's one of the safety regulatory agencies, you have no recourse with the manufacturer or seller of the helmet.

The "5 year rule" is generally true and recommended by all motorcycle helmet manufacturers. So, I suspect that bicycle helmets are not different. I will try to look on internet for official suggestions...

OK - I found it:
Snell is official testing agency which gives out "snell" certifications on helmets. I believe Snell certifies the bicycle helmets also:

"Today, Arai follows the Snell Memorial Foundation’s statement on warranties in setting a baseline for our coverage parameters. Snell recommends that a helmet be replaced within five years from its date of first use, and no more than seven years from its date of manufacture."
Taken from: http://www.araiamericas.com/Arai_Wan...antieswork.asp

Snell website
http://www.smf.org/