Beginning January 1, 2012 the SCCA will require all Club Racing drivers to use SFI 38.1 or FIA 8858 approved head and neck restraint devices.

There are standards for Head and Neck Restraints, (H&NR). It is important to get a proper fitting device. Some H&NR devices are designed for most upright applications, including the majority of sedans and sports cars. Other types fit most reclined applications, including formula cars and sports racers. So don't just think you can show up at the track in 2012 and barrow your friends equipment. What they have may not be what you need.

The time is now to get your gear ready so it works with your other equipment in the car such as your helmet, seat, and belts.

SFI 38.1

This standard spec is set very high for H&NR equipment. In order to pass the specification, the restraint has to pass a 70 G, 30 degree angular frontal impact, followed by three straight frontal 70G impacts below 3200 N neck Tension.

The latest list of SFI 38.1 certified devices can be found at http://www.sfifoundation.com/manuf.html#38.1

FIA 8858

The 8858 test is designed to test Head and Neck System (HANS) devices. Details about HANS devices such as standards and definitions can be found on the FIA website at this link. HANS Devices (pdf file).

It seems it would be smart to contact someone that has a lot of experence selling this type of equipment such as venders in our area or some other venders found in "SportsCar" like SafeRacer or Pegasus Racing

The main point is don't show up at a race in 2012 without the equipment. You will not get to race without it.