Head & Neck Safety, FHR, Hans Devices

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Explore our FHR & Hans Devices collection for ultimate head & neck safety. Essential for motorsport, these FIA-approved devices prevent severe whiplash.

Head & Neck Safety, FHR, Hans Devices

HANS & FHR Devices — New Zealand & Australia

In most forms of motorsport in New Zealand and Australia, a frontal head restraint (FHR) device — commonly known as a HANS device — is now compulsory. Harris Race Radios stocks a personally selected range of FIA and SFI approved FHR devices, recommended by Aaron Harris — Barcelona 24 Hour class winner, Bathurst competitor, and MSNZ licence examiner for helmets, FHR, HANS, and hybrid devices.

All FHR devices in this range are FIA or SFI approved and compatible with FIA 8853-2016 racing harnesses.

Watch: Why Safety Gear Saves Lives — Aaron Harris Manfield Crash

Aaron Harris was involved in a serious crash at Manfield. He walked away. This is why the HANS device matters just as much as the helmet.

Aaron Harris — Manfield crash, NZ. Full safety gear: Stilo helmet, HANS device, FIA-rated racewear. He walked away.

Why You Need an FHR Device

In a frontal impact, the body decelerates rapidly while the head continues forward. Without an FHR device, this causes a severe whiplash rebound — the rearward snap of the head that causes basilar skull fractures and fatal neck injuries. An FHR device tethers the helmet to the shoulder yoke, limiting forward head travel and preventing the lethal rebound.

FHR devices do not provide significant side-impact protection. For lateral head restraint, a seat with high side wings or a head restraint system is required.

Stand21 — The Original FHR Manufacturer

Stand21 is the original manufacturer of frontal head restraints, used at the highest levels of motorsport worldwide. Models feature ergonomic chest yokes with soft Nomex pads, adjustable air padding, and a quick-release tether system. Lighter models are recommended for endurance racing.

Choosing the Right FHR Device

  • FIA or SFI approved — required by MSNZ and Motorsport Australia for most categories
  • Weight — lighter devices reduce neck fatigue. Carbon fibre models are significantly lighter than composite
  • Tether compatibility — ensure tethers match your helmet FHR posts
  • Harness compatibility — use 2 inch HANS-specific shoulder straps for best geometry
  • Seat compatibility — ensure your seat has adequate shoulder opening width for the FHR yoke

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an FHR/HANS device compulsory in NZ and AU motorsport?
Yes — MSNZ and Motorsport Australia both require FIA or SFI approved FHR devices for most circuit, rally, and national championship categories.

What is the difference between a HANS device and an FHR device?
HANS is the original brand name — FHR is the generic FIA term. All HANS devices are FHR devices.

Do I need a special harness?
2 inch HANS-specific shoulder straps are strongly recommended for correct geometry.

Can Harris Race Radios advise on selection?
Yes — Aaron Harris is an MSNZ licence examiner for FHR and HANS devices. Contact us for free advice.

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