HANS device

The HANS device (Head And Neck Support device) is a safety item compulsory in many car racing sports. Primarily made of carbon-fibre, the device wraps around the racing helmet and sits on the shoulders, fixing the driver to the seat. This reduces the chances of head or neck injuries, particularly a basal skull fracture, in the event of a crash

Related Topics:
Carbon-fibre - Basal skull fracture

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The device was designed in the early 1980s by Dr. Robert Hubbard, a professor of biomechanical engineering at Michigan State University. After talking to his brother-in-law, road-racer Jim Downing, it was decided that some sort of protection was required to help prevent injuries from sudden stops, especially during accidents. The primary cause of death amongst drivers during races was through violent head movements, where the body remains in place because of the seat belts but the momentum keeps the head moving forwards. It is still debated whether the death of popular NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt was the result of a broken seat belt, or inadequate head and neck restraint.

Related Topics:
1980s - Biomechanical engineering - Michigan State University - Seat belt - NASCAR - Dale Earnhardt

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Many drivers found it difficult to get used to the device, claiming it to be uncomfortable, more restrictive and fearing that it would cause more injuries and problems than it prevented. Some stated that the positioning of the device made the seat belts feel less secure or rubbed on the shoulders or collar bone.

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