KASK, the premium designer and manufacturer of performance head protection, has launched Quantum as its first helmet series in the wildfire firefighting and technical rescue category for first responders undertaking high-risk activities with extended operational use.
KASK has created a new reference for rescue and wildland firefighting helmets, designing a solution informed by the evolution of rescue and climbing helmets, advances in materials technology and the ever-changing nature and challenges of technical rescue, natural disaster and wildland firefighting applications.
In response to these changing needs, KASK developed a new helmet certified under three key European helmet standards: Wildland Firefighting, Technical Rescue and Mountaineering, with a design grounded in three core KASK attributes: safety, comfort and design. This challenged the team to address the unique risk factors encountered in emergency response applications including impact absorption, durability and compromised environments, whilst addressing helmet stability, comfort and usability. The Quantum helmet embodies these objectives – from the innovative, fire and chemical-resistant PC-PBT alloy exterior shell and high-density EPS inner with thermoformed cover, through to the Adaptive Fit system that can be easily adjusted with gloved hands.
‘Quantum began with a question: why can’t we design a better helmet set for these essential workers and the risks they face?’ stated Marta Beltramello, Sales & Marketing Director of KASK Safety. ‘This was the criteria for decision-making during development. We are truly honoured to provide equipment that is designed better: safer, more comfortable, easier to use, and in the end what they want to wear.’
Quantum Series has been awarded with the iF Design Award 2023 for Design Excellence by iF International Forum Design. This award continues the recognition of commitment the Italian-based company has for developing advanced products that focus on user needs, tangible benefits and exceptional design – delivering on the company adage ‘Performance is a beautiful thing’.
Technical details
When designing the Quantum, there was key consideration given to the wide parameters of use that a fire and rescue helmet operates within. This opened the door to the integration of not only a more performance-oriented, applications-based design but also addresses more effectively the high-risk nature of emergency response. Quantum has been designed drawing upon proven KASK expertise in high-performance head protection from our cycling, snow sports, equestrian and industrial safety divisions.
Safety is ensured thanks to the external shell constructed from the polycarbonate/polybutylene terephthalate (PC/PBT) alloy blend that allows for higher impact resistance in a range of temperatures, higher heat and flame resistance and greater chemical resistance. The expanded polystyrene inner foam shell guarantees all-round impact energy absorption and improved comfort. The EPS is covered with thermoformed polystyrene for increased durability and easier cleaning and decontamination.
Exceptional wearer comfort is provided by an inner padding in multi-layered fabric with moisture-wicking technology and exceptionally soft textiles that enhances wearer comfort. It can be easily removed or replaced via a patented Click-In system.
In addition, the patented Adaptive Fit system adapts to head shapes to create a personalized, secure fit. Adjusting the large-diameter dial allows the ergonomic side wings to cradle the back of the neck while the self-adjusting hinge moves up and down to keep the system in a comfortable and secure position that moves as the wearer moves. The fire-resistant acrylic chinstrap offers five side and rear adjustment points.
Quantum is available in a closed shell or Cabrio configuration with 14 vents for enhanced airflow and cooling comfort for the wearer, with anti-intrusion metal mesh vent covers to prevent debris from entering the ventilation channels. Quantum Cabrio is also equipped with a sliding closure system.
As with all KASK helmets, Quantum features a number of additional design elements that enhance the wearer experience. It is designed with integrated slots for easy mounting of KASK eye, face, hearing and weather protection and with a front attachment point for advanced customization and easy integration of accessories such as badge holders and headlamps.
The Quantum series is compliant with the European standards for wildland firefighting helmets (EN 16471), for technical rescue helmets (EN 16473) and the Quantum Cabrio also accounts for radial impact protection covered by the mountaineering helmets standard (EN 12492).
For more information, go to www.kask.com
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