EN 443 applies to helmets used to fight fires in buildings and structures, and in rescue and road-traffic incidents. It is one of the most demanding helmet standards because it requires mechanical, thermal, chemical and electrical protection at once.
Helmet types
- Type A
- Half-shell — protects the crown, ears left open.
- Type B
- Full shell — covers the head, ears and part of the neck.
Additional marking
- ***
- Low-temperature performance (−20 °C or −30 °C)
- E2
- Insulation of a wet shell
- E3
- Surface insulation of the shell
- C
- Contact with liquid chemicals
The helmet must be compatible with face shields (EN 14458), the breathing apparatus facepiece (EN 136) and hearing protection. The complete assembly has to be assessed together — individually certified parts do not automatically make a certified system.