Protective Equipment

Abstract

Helmets are designed to prevent catastrophic brain injury such as skull fractures and intracranial hemorrhage. Helmets do not prevent concussion, and are sometimes used as a weapon that may actually lead to a concussive injury. Football helmets are certified by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE), and the National Football League has also developed criteria for evaluating football helmets independent of NOCSAE. To mitigate concussion and repetitive head impact exposure, the head needs to be taken out of the game, irrespective of the use of helmets.