Turbans vs helmets: The conflict between the mandatory wearing of protective head-gear and the freedom of religious expression

ABSTRACT A number of religions mandate that members of that faith cover their hair and head. Depending on its nature, this head covering can interfere with the design and efficacy of protective head gear such as helmets. This is exacerbated in situations where religious mandates prevent the cutting of head hair, such as among Sikhs, as this adds to the volume to be covered by protective head gear. This paper provides an overview of the cultural mandate to wear turbans and how this meshes with the legal requirements to wear protective head gear during work and recreational pursuits.