EN397 is a European standard that outlines the requirements for industrial safety helmets. Here are some key details covered by the standard:
- Scope: EN397 specifies the requirements for industrial safety helmets intended to protect the wearer’s head against impacts from falling objects and other hazards in industrial environments.
- Construction: The standard specifies the construction of the helmet, including its materials, design, and components. Helmets must be designed to provide adequate protection while also being comfortable to wear.
- Shock Absorption: Helmets must be capable of absorbing the energy of an impact to reduce the force transmitted to the wearer’s head.
- Penetration Resistance: Helmets must be resistant to penetration by sharp objects or protrusions, such as nails or screws, to prevent injury to the wearer’s head.
- Retention System: The standard outlines requirements for the chin strap and retention system to ensure that the helmet remains securely in place during use.
- Temperature Resistance: Helmets must be able to withstand exposure to high and low temperatures without significantly affecting their performance.
- Electrical Insulation: If specified by the manufacturer, helmets may provide electrical insulation to protect against electric shock.
- Marking and Identification: Helmets that comply with EN397 must bear a CE marking, indicating that they meet the essential health and safety requirements set out in European Union legislation. The manufacturer’s identification, helmet size, and year of manufacture should also be marked on the helmet.
- Testing: Helmets must undergo various tests to assess their compliance with the standard, including impact testing, penetration testing, and tests of the chin strap and retention system.
EN397 aims to ensure that industrial safety helmets provide effective protection against the specific hazards encountered in industrial environments while also meeting comfort and usability requirements for the wearer.
