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Some design recommendations to improve comfort in helmets: a case study from China
J Abeysekera1, I Holmer, X Liu
1Division of Industrial Ergonomics, Luleå University, Sweden.
Journal of Human Ergology
|December 1, 1996
Summary
Improving safety helmet comfort is key for consistent worker use. Addressing heat, weight, and fit issues through design changes and ventilation can enhance wearability and durability.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Safety and Health
- Ergonomics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Worker compliance with safety helmets is low due to comfort issues like heat, weight, and poor fit.
- Optimizing helmet design is crucial, especially in regions like China with a high demand for effective protective gear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the comfort aspects of safety helmets through a case study.
- To identify key factors influencing helmet wearability and worker acceptance.
Main Methods:
- Gathering subjective feedback from wearers on test helmets.
- Conducting heat transfer measurements through helmet shells.
- Analyzing wearer impressions to inform design modifications.
Main Results:
- Subjective wearer feedback highlighted significant comfort issues requiring design improvements.
- Heat transfer data indicated a need for enhanced ventilation in plastic helmet shells.
- Cane helmets showed potential due to low weight and good ventilation.
Conclusions:
- Helmet design must prioritize user comfort to ensure habitual and prolonged use.
- Incorporating ventilation openings in plastic helmets is recommended.
- Further development of cane helmets for improved protection, wearability, and durability is advised for large-scale production.