Auto Racing Safety Equipment

In the world of auto racing, safety is of the utmost importance. Race car drivers drive at speeds that would not be possible if it were not for the safety equipment that is used in the auto racing industry. The equipment has changed and developed over the years which have dramatically helped to increase the safety of racing drivers.

Safety Harnesses - A safety harness is a seatbelt with extra protection. Most harnesses used in the auto racing industry are a 7-point harness which is used to protect the body of the diver if impact has occurred.

Helmets - A racing helmet is used to protect the head of the race car driver.  This is one of the most important pieces of equipment used. Helmets have evolved over the years since race car drivers first began using them. Most were only in place to protect the head, whereas now most race car helmets are designed to protect the head and brain as well as the face. They are a full protection style and are much needed when race car drivers face the potential of high speed crashes during a race.

Head Restraints - Head and neck restraints are used to protect the areas that a helmet is unable to. Areas such as the top of the spine and neck are used to protect a racer from spinal injury during a high speed crash. These restraints have been mandatory in the industry since 2001. They were recommended to drivers prior to 2001 but did not become a required piece of safety equipment until then.

Fire Suits - Fire suits are required by the industry for all drivers. The chance of fire on impact is very high when drivers are racing at very high speeds. Sometimes these impacts can cause an explosion, setting the car on fire and putting the driver at risk. For this reason fire suits are worn to protect the driver from catching on fire in this situation.

Roll Cages - Roll cages are built into the race car. They are a requirement for all cars that will race in a professional car race such as NASCAR. A roll cage is designed to protect the body of the car from crushing in case of a rollover accident. They are used to prevent bodily damage to the driver if an accident were to occur.