EN 397

EN397

​Specifies the requirements and testing methods for industrial safety helmets.

​Requirement:

​Impact / Shock Absorption​

The test centres have a piece of kit that performs this test. The helmet is placed on a head shaped mould, which has load detectors on it, the 5KG rounded striker is dropped on to the hard hat from a height of 1 metre, the load cell will record the force transmitted through the safety helmet, for the helmet to pass, the force must not exceed 5kN. The test is done several times and includes high and low temperatures, as well as helmet samples that have been immersed in water and exposed to UV rays.​

Penetration​

This is a similar test, but the domed weight is replaced with a pointed 3KG weight. If the point penetrates the helmet, it fails.​

Chin Straps​

For a Hard Hat to do its job, it has to stay on the head, usually the size adjuster will be adequate, some tasks will require a chin strap to keep the helmet in place. All helmets conforming to EN397 must have chin strap anchorage points. EN397 Industrial Safety helmets with a chin strap must release when force is applied (150-250N) this is to ensure the helmet doesn't strangle the wearer. Unlike Climbing helmets conforming to EN12492 where the chinstrap is tested not to break or release.