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.

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 — mandatory at many NZ and AU circuits and in several classes of racing.

Stand21 — The Original FHR Manufacturer

Stand21 is the original manufacturer of frontal head restraints. Their devices are used at the highest levels of motorsport worldwide and are the most popular FHR brand in NZ and AU club and national racing. Stand21 models feature ergonomic chest yokes with soft Nomex pads, adjustable air padding for comfort, and a quick-release tether system.

Stand21 model pricing reflects materials and weight — the lighter the device, the higher the price. For endurance racing or any event where driver weight and fatigue are factors, a lighter device is strongly recommended.

Choosing the Right FHR Device

  • FIA or SFI approved — check your series regulations. MSNZ and Motorsport Australia both require FIA or SFI approved devices for most categories
  • Weight — lighter devices reduce neck fatigue on long stints. Carbon fibre models are significantly lighter than composite
  • Tether compatibility — ensure tethers are compatible with your helmet's FHR posts. Most FIA helmets use standard FIA posts
  • Harness compatibility — use 2" (50mm) HANS-specific shoulder straps for best geometry. See our Racing Harness Installation Guide for correct setup
  • 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. Check your specific series regulations as requirements vary by category.

What is the difference between a HANS device and an FHR device?
HANS (Head And Neck Support) is the original brand name — FHR (Frontal Head Restraint) is the generic term used by the FIA. All HANS devices are FHR devices. Stand21 manufactures both HANS-style and hybrid FHR devices.

Do I need a special harness to use an FHR device?
You need 2" (50mm) HANS-specific shoulder straps for correct geometry with most FHR devices. Standard 3" shoulder straps can be used but 2" is strongly recommended. See our racing harness range for HANS-compatible options.

Can Harris Race Radios advise on FHR device selection?
Yes — Aaron Harris is an MSNZ licence examiner for FHR and HANS devices and can advise on the correct device for your series, helmet, and harness setup. Contact us for free advice.

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