What is a Hans device?
HANS (head and neck support) devices are a safety device attached to the posts on your helmet. Hans neck braces are designed to keep your head from whipping forward in the event of 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 are a ‘U’ shaped device that sits on your shoulders and gos over your chest and wrapping 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 and they have incorporated a number of comfort changes that are not available on other brands.
What is a FHR (Frontal Head Restrain) ?
There are two main types of frontal head restraints on the market, designed by different manufacturers to an FIA homologated safety test. These devices are designed to stop the head thrusting forward too far which causes a severe whiplash back and it’s this rearwards movement that actually breaks your neck. FHR devices aren’t designed to prevent damage from a side impact and even though some can provide a level of assistance. Because of this it’s important to use a seat with ‘wings’ or side head restraint for adequate protection. These are currently not mandatory.
Whichever frontal head restraint you choose, the principle of operation will be the same. It attaches to your helmet via posts that are mounted with a required 6mm bolt and attach via a tether to the FHR device. This base sits around your shoulder area and 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 Tehthers on the HANS device are dated and do need to be replaced 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 a it, especially if a user competes in open cockpit environments. Even the best materials deteriorate over time. Further, we recommend a user replaces their HANS Device if it is involved in an accident or shows any signs of structural damage. If in doubt about the integrity, it should be replaced.
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 modulous carbon fiber and Sport Series are made of injection molded carbon fiber.
