European regulations/standards

EUROPEAN REGULATION/STANDARD

This is the European regulation/standard that specifies physical and performance requirements, marking requirements and test methods for protective helmets for industry. Industry protective helmets are primarily intended to protect the user from falling objects and the bone and brain injuries that can result.

The safety standard includes tests for vertical shock absorption, perforation resistance, flame resistance and attachment of the strap provided under the chin strap. There are also Optional non-mandatory requirements of EN397 such as very low temperatures, very high temperatures, molten metal and lateral deformation.

IMPACTS AND PENETRATION

Resistance to impact from falling objects involves impact from above from a specified distance. Test head sensors must record an absorbed force of less than 5.0 kN in order to avoid or reduce trauma to the user. Resistance to perforation (by sharp/sharp objects) involves impact from a sharp striker which must not pierce the helmet shell.

FLAME RESISTANCE

The flame resistance test involves exposing the helmet shell to a normalized flame. The test is passed if exposure to flame and heat does not produce obvious damage to the material and if combustion does not persist.

CHIN STRAP STRENGTH

Attachment of the chin strap, which must open when subjected to a force between a minimum of 150N and a maximum of 250N, by a test that subjects the strap to a tensile force.

OPTIONAL REQUIREMENTS

The helmet can be tested under conditions that attest to its resistance at very low temperatures -20°C or -30°C, and at very high temperatures + 150°C, without suffering significant alteration or damage. The molten metal requirement involves casting molten metal on the helmet, which is then examined for damage. In lateral deformation tests, the helmet is subjected to transverse compressive forces that result in deformations, which are then examined.