Abstract: Head harness form gas mask consists of several pieces of biaxially stretchable elastic fabric stitched together to provide a concave configuration in the relaxed state. The harness is shaped and sized to fit a range of normal human heads by stretching over the back and top of the head. The forward edge of the harness has a number of tongues of the elastic fabric that attach to a gas mask. The preferred material for the harness is a 280 denier bare spandex power net fabric that has a flat load versus elongation curve. A gas mask fitted with the harness applies a uniform pressure within the comfort range on the face of the wearer without significant adjustment of the harness, despite wide ranges in the head size and configuration of the wearer.

Abstract: A ballistic helmet for use by bomb disposal personnel which includes a covering of soft ballistic nylon over a rigid polycarbonate shell. The shell is lined with semi-shock attenuating foam and is designed to cover the entire head. A transparent visor in the front of the helmet can easily be removed by the wearer and a blower assembly provides fresh air inside the helmet to eliminate fogging of the visor. The assembly incorporates an integral communication headset and microphone. Stability of the complete unit on the wearer's head is accomplished by a double-strap retention system.