HPDE helmet - official answer requested

[abacab]

For the last 2 years of NASA events, I have been passing tech just fine with a M2000 helmet... until Pueblo in November. At that event, I was told that this particular helmet was no longer accepted and, in addition, should never have been accepted.

In several recent threads, I have seen posts saying M helmets are acceptible. And, the CCRs say anything down to a M1990 is acceptible.

I don't understand the source of the "fuzziness" of this rule. Can we get a clear/actionable answer? I am willing to get a new helmet, but would rather not if it isn't necessary.

Thanks.

[Snymo]

For HPDE, the 2008 CCR says:

11.3 Required Safety Equipment - Driver
1. Use a proper fitting helmet that meets Snell 1990 (SA1990; M1990) or newer (or equivalent) standards for cars or motorcycles.


For Racing, the 2008 CCR says:

15.17.3 Helmet
All drivers are required to wear an approved helmet while on track. Helmets must be approved by Snell and carry a sticker of Snell 2000 ( SA2000) or better*. Ratings other than that of “SA” (Special Application), i.e. “M1995, M2000”, are not acceptable.
*Alternatively, helmets with an FIA certification of 8860-2004 are acceptable. It is strongly recommended that any helmet sustaining any substantial impact be replaced.

For HPDE, a motorcycle (M) helmet is acceptable and can be used. Not sure why you were told it wasn't unless someone was confused on what you were doing (HPDE vs Racing).

Rick

[RichV]

HPDE M is OK. Racing SA must be used.

A 2000 should be fine until 2015, unless there is damage to it.

[ker]

abacab, you have a pm

[leggwork]

the clear answer is in the CCR - make a copy to bring to events if you want to be sure.
If your car has a roll cage in HPDE, the inspector might have been making a **strong suggestion** that you should have an SA helmet (it can take multiple small hits that an M helmet can't).
bruce

For the last 2 years of NASA events, I have been passing tech just fine with a M2000 helmet... until Pueblo in November. At that event, I was told that this particular helmet was no longer accepted and, in addition, should never have been accepted.

In several recent threads, I have seen posts saying M helmets are acceptible. And, the CCRs say anything down to a M1990 is acceptible.

I don't understand the source of the "fuzziness" of this rule. Can we get a clear/actionable answer? I am willing to get a new helmet, but would rather not if it isn't necessary.

Thanks.

[RichV]

Bruce, fwik, the only difference between an M and a SA rating is the SA has a nomex liner for added fire protection. I think the impact vulnerability is the same for same model helmets.

[leggwork]

there appears to be a testing difference - from http://www.smf.org/faqs.html
What are the differences between the SA, M and K standards?
The SA standard was designed for competitive auto racing while M standard was for motorcycling and other motorsports. The K standard was released to accommodate helmets used in karting. There are three major differences between them:

1. The SA standard requires flammability test while the M and K standards do not.
2. The SA and K standards allow for a narrower visual field than M standard (Some SA and K certified helmets may not be street legal).
3. The SA and K standards include a rollbar multi impact test while M standard does not.

but whether the manufacturers actually make the helmets any differently is a good question.
bruce

[ShadowLight]

Great question, thanks for asking it. I was told my Snell motorcycle helmet was a no go as well. Nice to see it'll last me through HPDE.

[Snymo]

Since more then one have been told M-rated helmets were not legal, can I ask who told you this? I'm not looking for a name, but was it somebody at the tech location or a NASA official at the track? The answer may help us educate those that need to know and keep this from happening again.

Thanks,
Rick

[ker]

Since more then one have been told M-rated helmets were not legal, can I ask who told you this? I'm not looking for a name, but was it somebody at the tech location or a NASA official at the track? The answer may help us educate those that need to know and keep this from happening again.

Thanks,
Rick

thanks rick, i already have this one covered. ;)

[Special Ed GT]

I'm sure it was me. I'm very focused on race tech on Saturday and Sunday mornings and I know I mistakenly nixed a couple of people last Pueblo event. Sorry!

Hank

[Snymo]

thanks rick, i already have this one covered. ;)

Ok cool, just making sure! ;)