An interesting new piece of safety equipment will be mandatory for NHRA competitors in the sanction’s quickest and fastest classes for the 2010 season. The Eject helmet removal system is being mandated and this neat piece of safety equipment could save the limb functions of drivers in severe wrecks where neck trauma may result.
To simplify the equipment down to the lowest level, it is an inflatable bag that is integrated into the top of the driver’s helmet. In the event of a wreck where the helmet must be removed, the bag is inflated with either a hand pump or a cartridge. By doing this, the helmet can be lifted off the driver without placing strain on the spine. It is a simple solution that lessens the risk of a life-altering injury. Here’s the website, which is full of details.
Here’s the release from Shock Doctor, the makers of Eject:
The Eject Helmet Removal System (Eject), by Shock Doctor, is now required equipment in the Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock Car and Pro Stock Motorcycle classes of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Full Throttle Drag Racing Series, as well as for Top Alcohol dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car drivers in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series. Eject is the only product that allows medical caregivers at race tracks and elsewhere, the ability to quickly and safely remove closed faced helmets, without any pressure or traction applied to the spine.
“Driver safety goes beyond simply wearing a helmet,” said Patrick Lynch, motorsport director for Shock Doctor. “NHRA is the largest motorsports sanctioning body in the world, and its recent Eject mandate for racers will influence safety awareness, as they take to the tracks this season.”
It is estimated that 350-400 NHRA drivers will be equipped with Eject as the 2010 season starts.
“Eject appears to be a progressive safety tool, and we are glad to make it available to our racers,” said Glen Gray, vice president of technical operations for the NHRA.
Drivers in the professional Indy Racing League, NASCAR, Grand-Am Road Racing, and riders in both AMA Pro Motocross and Supercross are also required to use Eject within their helmets. Eject has a rollout program underway to support the riding and EMT communities on a nationwide basis. For more information, please visit www.ejectsafety.com.
About Shock Doctor, Inc.
Shock Doctor is a global brand leader that uses innovative technology and design to provide superior protection and enhanced performance for people who are passionate about their sports. In addition to a full line of patented, technologically-advanced mouthguards, Shock Doctor offers a comprehensive line of innovative performance protection products, including core protective gear for hockey, football, baseball, soccer, martial arts and boxing; lacrosse and motorsports equipment; and a full line of Power Dry(TM) Gear Bag Systems. Shock Doctor products are used by athletes at all levels of competition. www.shockdoctor.com.
