What should be done if a safety helmet has been subjected to a significant impact?

A safety helmet is designed to protect the wearer from impacts that could cause serious injury. When a helmet experiences a significant impact, it's essential to prioritize safety and ensure that the helmet is still capable of providing the intended level of protection. Even if there are no visible signs of damage, the internal structure of the helmet may have been compromised in ways that aren't immediately visible.

Helmets often have a foam liner that absorbs impact energy, and this material can be damaged by a significant impact, rendering the helmet less effective in future incidents. If the manufacturer indicates that the helmet should be replaced after any significant impact, following that guideline is critical for ensuring safety.

Furthermore, continuing to use a helmet that has been impacted could put the wearer at risk in case of another incident, where the helmet may not perform as expected. This emphasis on replacing the helmet, regardless of any apparent damage, ensures that safety remains the top priority.