The brain is sensitive to impacts and rotational movements. One can think of the human brain as an organ with a semi-solid consistency, but in reality, it is more like jelly. Because the brain consists mostly of water, it cannot be compressed. However, it is sensitive to rotation where forces act in two different directions and "twist" the brain. When different parts of the brain move in relation to each other due to rotational movements, the tissues can stretch out. This can, in turn, have serious consequences such as concussion or other brain injuries.
When the head hits the ground, the force can cause the head to rotate more or less depending on the surface or object the head hits. Unfortunately, this is something that ordinary helmet tests do not try to simulate. Helmets are tested using a method that measures the energy in a linear impact against the helmet and head, but does not take rotation into account. Rotational movement can thus be the result of an angled impact to the head, which in turn can cause the brain to move and the brain tissue to stretch. This can cause injuries such as concussion and brain bleeding.
Head injuries are one of the most serious occupational injuries you can experience. Unfortunately, accidents with head injuries occur relatively frequently and are caused, among other things, by falls, impacts, or the head being hit by falling objects.
How can you, as an employer, reduce the risk of head injuries in the workplace? To avoid and minimize the risk of work-related head injuries, there are some things an employer can consider:
There are several types of head protection. Protective helmets and impact-resistant caps are the most common. Which head protection to use depends on the risks in the workplace and the work environment you are in. There are also several factors that can affect the function of the protection.
Mips is a world leader in helmet-based safety and brain protection. Their unique and patented Mips Safety System is based on a low-friction impact between the head and the outer shell, allowing the helmet to move 10-15 mm in all directions relative to the head during certain oblique impacts and impacts. The purpose is to reduce the harmful rotational movement that the brain can be exposed to if you fall or receive a blow to the head. The Mips system is designed to reduce rotational energy, which in turn can reduce the risk of concussion or other brain injuries.
For construction and industrial workers, we recommend using an industrial helmet equipped with integrated MIPS technology. Read about the Zekler Zone Mips protective helmet here.
