Heady Attitude

Glenyss Rae

There are no Australian laws governing the wearing of safety helmets in equestrian sport, but it is illegal to ride motorcycles or bicycles without relevant head gear. Each equestrian association has its own guidelines on safety helmets, but unfortunately they're not consistent.

Most associations recommend helmets be approved and tested by the Standards Association of Australia, an independent non-profit organisation designed to standardise Australian manufacture.

The first Australian Standard (AS) for helmets (cycling and horse riding) was published in 1977, specifying three main components of a suitable safety helmet.

They are a hard shell, a means of absorbing impact energy, and a retention system involving a retaining strap to be worn under the chin.

In 1988, a clause was added stipulating an extra test be performed on the retention system of helmets for equestrian use.

Helmet manufacturers wanting to be recognised by the Australian Standard must pay a membership fee, adhere to the minimum standards, and allow Quality Assurance Services to test a sample of helmets from every batch made.

Marryn Clarke from Standards Australia described the AS symbol as "an assurance the helmet has been monitored and checked by a third party, according to our standards."

Equine Oz spoke to equestrian associations to find out what recommendations they make on helmet safety.

The Australian Jockey Club stipulates a safety helmet conforming to the AS specification number 2063.3 must be worn in all races and on training grounds. Roma Bridoake from the National Pony Club said: "All states, except Western Australia, insist children wear an AS 2063.3 helmet, but the national association doesn't pressurise the states."

The Western Australian Pony Club demands its members wear safety helmets with a "retention harness fixed at two points on each side."

The Australian Polocrosse Association stipulates AS approved helmets must be worn in competition.

Gillian Canapini from the EFA said their coaches urge students to wear protective head gear, and they recommend AS approved helmets.

It is compulsory to wear a safety helmet when competing in Eventing or Showjumping, but in Dressage events a top hat, bowler hat, hunting cap or AS approved helmet are all acceptable.

Helmet fitting
Helmets are designed to reduce the risk of head injury, but a poorly fitted helmet may not be effective in this role. Here are some simple steps to take when fitting your safety helmet.

Step One
The initial fitting of a helmet is best done without fastening the retention (throat) strap. The helmet should be firm but not tight, the customer will tell you if it is uncomfortable. A space of about 2.5 centimetres is recommended between the helmet and the eyebrows, and the skin on the forehead should move when the helmet is rocked backwards and forwards.

Helmets with interchangeable velcro backed padding need to be fitted the same way until the correct thickness of padding is found. Be sure to include spare padding at the point of sale.

Step Two
The next step is to adjust the retention harness. Australian Standards specify the harness must be adjustable and have a quick release buckle.

Fasten the buckle, then tighten all the straps so the tension is evenly distributed. The throat strap should go under, not on the chin, and when tightened should be firm but comfortable.

Step Three
The final check recaps the first two steps. Check the helmet does not move around on the head, and don't be too gentle. Ensure the vision is in no way obscured by the helmet, but the forehead is protected by the helmet.

Finally, check the customer feels comfortable in the helmet, you don't want to give them any excuse not to wear the helmet.

Further Advice

Helmets are not "uncool", and may save the rider's life.