Thursday, December 27, 2012

The Definition Of Head And Neck Restraints

By Kendra Ware


Head and neck restraints are abbreviated as HANS. They also are referred to as head and neck support devices. They are safety and compulsory items in car racing sports. They are basically an extension of the helmet which protects the neck from injuries in the event of a collision. Such injuries include basilar skull fracture which is avoided by lowering the strain experienced by the necks.

These devices are crucial since they perform work that harnesses are unable to accomplish. Harnesses maintain bodies in a firm position therefore safeguarding them from impact resulting from sideway or forward movement. They are capable of supporting up to 3000 lbs of energy. Heads get protection from helmets that also add a considerable amount of load on them. Necks, which link heads and bodies are left without protection. This makes it very necessary to wear these equipments since they safeguard against powerful frontward or sideway forces.

Restraints are intended to absorb energy and shock in order to free the head and neck from excess load. Almost 50 percent of deaths that originate from racing are because of basilar skull fractures. Some producers allege that such fractures occur when around nine hundred pounds or four thousand newtons of force is exerted on the necks.

These devices have a U shape and are made of carbon fiber. The back of the U is set behind the lower part of necks. The two arms lie flat over the pectoral muscles along the chest. The entire device is generally supported by the shoulders. It is attached only to the helmet by use of two strong straps.

Its position is a little behind in comparison with that of Hutchens devices. It lacks any attachments to belts or seats hence it is completely supported by the body of the wearer. The main reason for using this gear is to decelerate the head during an accident. The head is kept in its relative position from the body. The energy from the collision is transmitted to stronger parts like the seats, shoulders, torso, chests, and seatbelts.

Restraints come in many different colors. They can be made in a monotonous color or they can have a blend. In case they have a blend of colors, different parts are colored differently from others. They may be dotted, or may have patterns, strips, or fading shades. Straps are for adjusting how perfect they suit the person wearing them. Straps have buckles for tight clipping at the end.

The cushioning on the interior surface of the equipment facilitates shock absorption. The exterior surface has a tough material made of metal or plastic to stop any piercing objects from reaching the wearer. Different constituents are connected together using screws. Wearers may be of any age even though older people are more vulnerable to fractures than younger individuals. This however does not imply that young people should race without them.

Head and neck restraints come in a variety of sizes. One can choose one that specifically fits them. Straps can be used to adjust how good they fit. They are relatively expensive but they are worth the price.




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