Helmets: Technological innovations for safety

Abstract

Helmets have been developed to be effective in preventing and/or reducing the severity of head injury for a number of activities, e.g. bicycle and motorcycle helmets. As a result of safety policies, health concerns and economics, both in terms of health costs and the supply of helmets, there is an understanding of impact exposure and helmet performance requirements, as well as systems to supply standard compliant helmets. The performance demands placed on helmets for sporting activities further away from the mainstream may be substantially different, although the principles governing helmet design and performance are the same. Knowledge regarding impact exposure in extreme sports, the economics of helmet development and the absence of standards mean that the helmets in extreme sports may not be optimal or meet the athletes’ expectations. The chapter will focus on the topic of fit for purpose in the context of extreme sports. Fit for purpose means that the helmet is functional for the activities in which it is worn and protects the head within a sport’s injury risk management objectives. The chapter will explain how helmets function to prevent injury and where decisions are required for extreme sports. The challenge of designing helmets for extreme sports will be addressed, e.g. producing helmets that are lightweight, affordable, aero- or hydrodynamically suitable, climate suitable and aesthetically acceptable, which prevent injury in high-energy impacts.