Selecting the correct safety helmet is vital to protect against head and brain injuries in the workplace. Helmets are tested and certified to different European standards, each with specific performance criteria suited to different levels of risk and environments.

EN 397:2012 – Industrial Safety Helmets
EN 397 helmets are designed for industrial use, particularly where there is a risk of falling objects from above, such as in construction.

Impact protection: Only the top (crown) is tested

• Shock absorption tested with a 50J impact
• Penetration resistance tested using a 3kg conical striker dropped from 1m

Optional EN 397 tests include:

• Lateral deformation: Assesses side crush resistance up to 430N
• Molten metal: Protection against molten iron splashes without penetration or prolonged burning
• Electrical insulation: For non-vented helmets, offers protection up to 440V a.c. for accidental contact
• Chinstrap: Optional – if fitted, must release between 150–250N

EN 14052:2012 – High Performance Helmets
EN 14052 helmets are intended for high-risk environments like demolition, mining, and quarrying, offering enhanced protection from multiple impact angles.

Impact protection: Tested around the helmet – crown, side, front, and rear

• Crown shock absorption tested with a 100J impact
• Side, front, and rear impact tested with 50J impacts up to 60° from the top

Penetration resistance:

• Crown tested using a 1kg blade striker from 2.5m
• Side, front, and rear tested using the same striker from 2m

Optional EN 14052 tests include:

• Molten metal: Same test as EN 397, for use in environments with splash risk
• Electrical insulation: Also protects up to 440V a.c., if helmet is non-vented
• Chinstrap: Optional – same release force requirement of 150–250N

Making the Right Choice
7 helmets are suitable for environments with falling object risks from above, offering essential protection in construction and similar industries.

EN 14052 helmets go further by providing multi-directional impact protection at higher energy levels. This makes them ideal for high-risk sites where hazards come from multiple angles, such as demolition zones or areas with mobile machinery and debris.

Before selecting head protection, carry out a risk assessment to determine the specific hazards of the environment and ensure the chosen helmet standard matches the level of risk.

Summary – Key Points:

• EN 397: Basic crown protection for falling objects, tested with 50J impact.
• EN 14052: Advanced protection from top, side, front, and rear impacts with higher energy tests.
• Both standards include optional tests for molten metal, electrical insulation, and chinstrap performance.
• A risk assessment is essential to identify the right helmet standard for the job.

If you need further support, please contact our Technical Support Team using the email: technical@jspsafety.com or contact us via WhatsApp.