What is a HANS device and what do you need to know?

What Is a Hans Device?

HANS (head and neck support) devices serve as safety equipment that attaches to the posts on your helmet. Hans neck braces possess the design to prevent your head from whipping forward during a crash.They prevent the often-fatal basilar skull fracture, and excessive rotational movement as a form of secondary protection. All our Hans devices are FIA or SFI approved devices. 

Hans, which is a ‘U’ shaped device, rests on your shoulders, extends over your chest, and wraps around the rear of your neck.This makes removing them while still attached to your helmet possible. One of the brands we offer is Stand 21. They have incorporated a number of comfort changes that are importantly not available on other brands.

What Is a Fhr (frontal Head Restrain) ?

Two primary types of frontal head restraints exist in the market, crafted by various manufacturers in order to pass an FIA homologised safety test. These devices aim to prevent excessive forward thrust of the head. This excessive movement is responsible for causing severe whiplash and as a result leads to neck injuries. FHR devices lack the design for shielding against side impacts, although certain options offer some assistance. Thus, it becomes crucial to utilise seats with 'wings' or side head restraints to ensure sufficient protection. Presently, the use of these restraints is not obligatory.

Whichever frontal head restraint you choose, the principle of operation will be the same.
It connects to your helmet using posts that mount with a mandatory 6mm bolt and then attach to the FHR device via a tether. This base sits around your shoulder area. It will allow the belts to pass over a HANS device, holding it firmly in place. It’s important that the belts are firmly on top of the FHR as during an impact the belts are what holds it in place.

How to Measure for a Hans Device?

Measure around your neck circumference and then compare it to the chart below.

Do Hans Devices Expire?

The tethers on the HANS device are dated and require replacement every 5 years.

Snell's five-year rule for helmets is only a guideline, but it is one we think users should consider when reviewing the integrity of their Device. The form of racing in which a user competes may also dictate the timeframe for replacing it, especially if a user competes in open cockpit environments. Even the best materials deteriorate over time. Additionally, we advise users to replace their HANS Device if it becomes involved in an accident or displays any indications of structural damage. If there's uncertainty regarding its integrity, it's recommended to opt for a replacement.

Which Hans Device Do I Buy for My Sport?

Most sports will require a 20-degree HANS, including Most Circuit, Speedway, Off-road and Rally. 30-degree devices are for the formula series racer where the driver is in a more laid back in position.

What Is the Difference Between the Hans Devices?

The only difference is weight – they all offer the same exceptional level of protection.

Professional Series weigh about 0.45 kg and Sport Series weigh about 1 kg.

Pro Series are made of hand laid, high modulus carbon fibre and Sport Series are made of injection moulded carbon fibre.

Where Do They Sit?

The HANS device is located on your body by the racing harnesses of the car. There are dedicated HANS harnesses with a narrower two-inch shoulder strap, however Stand 21 recommends a three-inch harness as the more harnesses you have on your device the better. You do not require a specific HANS harness for use with HANS devices. The geometry of the harnesses is important for the operation of the HANS in an accident. The recommended fitting instructions are supplied with each device to help you in setting the harnesses and seat