EN 397:2025 is the latest revision of the European standard for industrial protective helmets. We understand that its introduction has raised questions about existing helmet certification, product lifetimes and whether customers must move immediately to helmets certified to the revised standard.
What has changed?
EN 397:2025 introduces two classifications of industrial protective helmet:
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- Type 1: Provides protection primarily against impacts to the crown of the head, with requirements broadly comparable to the previous EN 397 standard.
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- Type 2: Provides additional protection against impacts to the front, rear and sides of the head, as well as the crown. Type 2 helmets must also incorporate a chinstrap.
The introduction of these classifications does not mean that every workplace must use a Type 2 helmet. The appropriate level of head protection should be selected according to the hazards identified through the employer’s workplace risk assessment.
- Type 2: Provides additional protection against impacts to the front, rear and sides of the head, as well as the crown. Type 2 helmets must also incorporate a chinstrap.
What is the transition period?
The previous EN 397:2012+A1:2012 standard continues to provide a presumption of conformity during the transition period, which ends on 16 December 2027.
This date relates to the certification framework used by manufacturers. It is not an expiry date for individual helmets and does not mean that helmets manufactured before this date can only be stored or used until December 2027.
Does the revised standard effect helmet shelf life or service life?
No. The publication of EN 397:2025 does not shorten the shelf life or service life stated in Centurion’s product instructions.
A helmet does not become obsolete or unsuitable for use simply because the standard has been revised. Helmets supplied under valid certification may continue to be stored and used in accordance with Centurion’s instructions, provided that they:
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- Remain within their stated shelf life and service life;
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- Have been stored and maintained correctly;
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- Are regularly inspected and remain in serviceable condition; and continue to provide the protection required by the user’s workplace risk assessment.
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- Where the product instructions allow up to five years of storage followed by up to five years in service, the December 2027 transition date does not reduce those periods.
Do existing helmets need to be replaced?
Customers do not need to replace serviceable helmets solely because EN 397 has been revised. The applicable standard remains clearly identified on the helmet markings, product instructions and Declaration of Conformity.
As with all personal protective equipment, helmets should be replaced when they reach the end of their stated life, fail an inspection, have sustained an impact or damage, or no longer provide the protection required by the workplace risk assessment.
Centurion’s approach
Centurion is reviewing the requirements of EN 397:2025 with its certification partners and will manage the transition of relevant products in accordance with the applicable regulatory and certification requirements.
Our existing helmet ranges supplied under valid certification continue to meet the standards and performance requirements declared for those products. We will communicate any product-specific certification updates as they become available. If you require support in selecting the most appropriate helmet for a particular workplace or application, please contact Centurion Safety Products.
