What action should be taken if a safety helmet sustains an impact?

• A. Continue to use until damage appears
• B. Inspect but keep using
• C. Send to maintenance after 2 years
• D. Replace the helmet

Answer: (D)

When a safety helmet takes an impact, its ability to protect your head can be compromised even if nothing obvious is damaged to the eye. The shell, foam liner, and retention system may develop microscopic cracks, compressed foam, or weakened straps that reduce energy absorption and secure fit. If the helmet is reused after an impact, a subsequent hit could transmit more of the force to the skull, increasing the risk of serious injury. Because internal damage isn’t reliably visible, replacing the helmet after an impact is the safest choice.

Other options rely on appearance or time-based rules, which don’t address the actual loss of protective capability. Continuing to use until damage is visible ignores hidden harm, inspecting without replacing may leave unseen weaknesses, and waiting years or sending it for maintenance without replacement after an impact ignores the immediate loss of protection. Replacing the helmet after an impact ensures you retain the intended level of safety.