20/03/2026
Today is World Head Injury Awareness Day.
In the workplace, head protection is one of the most visible and most critical lines of defence. This day reminds us of the role we can all play in helping to reduce accidents and prevent brain injuries in reducing accidents and brain injuries. According to HSE in 2024/25, being struck by a moving object was one of the three accident types accounting for 60% of all fatal workplace injuries in Great Britain.
It is also a timely moment to consider how the standards that govern that protection are evolving. EN 397:2025 represents the most significant update to industrial protective helmet specifications in 30 years, and understanding what has changed is an important step for anyone responsible for PPE selection.
The most notable update is the introduction of two defined helmet types. Type 1 helmets provide on-crown protection, while Type 2 helmets extend that to absorb impact energy across the top, sides, front and rear. For H&S managers and specifiers, this distinction matters. EN 397:2025 places greater emphasis on assessing risk when choosing head protection, so a single helmet can no longer be assumed suitable for all tasks or working conditions.
For those reviewing their head protection specifications, JSP's EVO® ALTA® range is worth understanding. The EVO® ALTA™ provides all-around impact protection with top, side, front and rear shock absorption performance, and is designed with an extended nape section to offer greater neck coverage. It is built with an EPP liner, a 4-point chinstrap, and is engineered for accessory compatibility across a range of applications.
