Motorcycle UK
The Challenge
Emergency Helmet Removal Systems for motorcycle, motorsports and all other safety helmets
Until now, manually removing a safety helmet from a road casualty's head has been the only method available to emergency crews.
But as every qualified rescuer knows, the process of pulling the helmet can cause damage to the casualty's neck or spine.
Motorcycle UK saw the need for a safe low-tech and low-cost method of helmet removal.
Their experts also recognised that the technology had to be easy to use, unobtrusive and suitable for use in a variety of sports helmets.
Motorcycle UK devised the Hats Off 1st Response kit to be used by emergency response crews. The inflatable cushion is inserted into the crown of the helmet, inflates gently removing the helmet from the casualty's head.
But after developing the initial concept Motorcycle UK hit problems developing it into a CE marked product. They needed a one-stop manufacturer to develop the concept, source suppliers, assemble and certify the product cost-effectively.
The Solution
After finding Europlaz's extensive website a factory visit was arranged, where the concept was discussed and Europlaz provided Motorcycle UK with several options.
Motorcycle UK were impressed with Europlaz's Technical understanding, regulatory knowledge and production build quality. So asked Europlaz to immediately begin the process of developing the Hats Off 1st Response kit: sourcing components, designing test equipment and mass production processes as well as producing the related CE documentation.
The system has now been adopted by race-track rescue crews, paramedics and doctors delivering life-support at accident scenes, and is now fast becoming the preferred method of emergency helmet removal.
The Verdict
Europlaz developed our Hats Off concept into a product that has already helped saved many lives.
As well as sourcing cost-effective components they tested the product thoroughly and completed the CE-mark documentation. The service was slick and efficient, and thanks to Europlaz the Hats Off system is now in use around the world.
Kevin Fitzpatrick, MCUK