Helmet Cameras
Remember that any camera devices fitted to, or within, the helmet are prohibited as per NCR Ch.9 Art.9.4, note that this now also includes the use of ‘Smart’ or AI Glasses, as he NCR states Only glasses for the sole purpose of correcting eyesight in accordance with Chapter 6 Appendix 2 Article 6.7 (and/or sun protection) are permitted.
Modern cameras may be light in weight, but helmet weight is critical. The lower the helmet’s weight the better the chance of minimising head or neck injuries. Hence why modern helmet standards have been developed to not only give increased penetration resistance and energy absorption but also for the weight of the helmet to be reduced.
Having a camera mounted externally on a helmet also gives the possibility of an impact load being concentrated. As always spreading an impact load over the largest possible area lessens the impact. Additionally, the rounded profile of a helmet gives reasonable possibility of an impacting object sliding off – or for the helmet sliding freely along the ground – if snagged by such as a camera that is not necessarily going to happen. Cameras mounted internally, may become detached in an impact, at which point there is a potential projectile inside the visor aperture.
The only exception is for integral cameras homologated with the helmet as part of its Standard approval. An example of such an approval can be seen on the Presentation Form for a Bell helmet to FIA Standard 8860-2018 which can be found on the FIA website through the link on the Technical List (click here), this is one of the helmet cams used in Formula One to show the drivers eye view footage!
Helmet Wrapping
Wrapping alone – as with painting – should not be a reason to reject the use of a helmet. This follows the stance taken by the FIA, who in turn are in regular communication with the helmet manufacturers. Many helmet manufacturers issue guidelines for the decoration of helmets, and these should always be followed. Any queries in relation to decoration of helmets should in the first instance always be directed to the helmet manufacturer.
However, as always, the Scrutineer will judge the overall condition of any helmet to ensure that they are satisfied as far as possible that the helmet is safe for use. If the helmet has been wrapped poorly, or there is some indication that the helmet may be damaged or has been dismantled and not sufficiently reassembled, then the Scrutineer will be in a position to reject the helmet and possibly impound it for the duration of the meeting. If the Scrutineer is in doubt as to whether there is damage beneath any wrapping, then they may ask for the competitor to demonstrate the condition, which may involve removal – or partial removal – of the decoration, if the competitor refuses, then the Scrutineer will reject the helmet and may impound it for the meeting.
All of the above applies in the same way to painted helmets, and those with partial wrapping or stickers. Remember that it is always the responsibility of the competitor to ensure that their equipment remains – and is presented – in a suitable and usable condition.
The FIA have produced a useful guidance document on helmets which can be viewed by clicking this link