Up scope: make sure your head protection is authorized!

During a recent submarine safety survey, we were inspecting a boat's helicopter transfer bag and found almost everything complied with the allowance equipage list (AEL). Then: Oops! We came across several commercial bicycle helmets. The chief-of-the-boat said the squadron had approved using the bicycle helmets in place of the cranial helmets listed on the AEL.

The bicycle helmets were off-the-shelf products and had been bought locally. They did not have an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) rating. We were concerned because I had not seen any messages or notices indicating any circumstances under which commercial helmets could replace cranial helmets.

We contacted the Navy Clothing and Textiles Research Facility for clarification. They confirmed that the Naval Sea Systems Command-approved cranial helmet listed on the AEL (2-330023065) is the only authorized head protection to be used aboard submarines. NavSea is the only agency that can authorize head protection for submarine use.

When it comes to protective gear of any kind, don't take anyone's word for what is, or is not, approved for use. Always ask to see written authorization and references that the Navy has officially approved use of specific equipment. Don't rely on word-of-mouth.

COPYRIGHT 2003 U.S. Navy Safety Center
COPYRIGHT 2003 Gale Group