The most important changes are that the new devices are built to protect during front AND offset impacts, the old style were developed to primary handle frontal impacts. So when ever considering buying a new Head and Neck Device, make sure that you get one that is designed for front AND offset impacts. Offset impacts are by far most common i auto racing.
Other improvements are that it is much easier to get in and out of the car with the new units, there is also an “in-seat” version that can be placed in the seat instead of on the shoulders.

Old style: FHR (Frontal Head Restraint) HANS device

New generation: HNRS (Head and Neck Restraint System) Safety Solution Hybrid, Hybrid PRO

Seat belts and installation

When using a Head and Neck Device is it important that the harness is mounted correctly. If not the system will not give its maximum performance or in worst case enhance the risk of injury to neck and spine.

There is two recommendations that must be followed closely:

1. Use as short shoulder harness as possible, maximum 200mm from device to harness anchor point. If the anchor points are further away, the distance between the anchor points must narrow or even cross over as shown in the picture.

2. The shoulder belts must run from the shoulders horizontally or down, at no more than a 20° angle.

Wrap Around harness and the 3-bar slide bracket

Do not mix 3-bars from various manufacturers, they are fabricated to be able to lock certain webbing, not all webbings.

Remember to “lock” the harness, there should only be one bar visible on the 3-bar if the harness is locked correctly.

3-bar must be placed as close as possible to the roll cage bar.



The above information is intended to give the racer a better understanding on how to get the most out of his or her personal safety equipment.