Nomex is also used to make the driver’s gloves. This is done to avoid aggravating any injury the driver may have sustained during a collision or crash. This is because the marshals should be able to remove the driver and seat as one. Wearing this suit, a driver can survive for 11 seconds at a temperature of 840 degree Celsius.įIA rules further say that the epaulette-like pieces on the shoulder should be capable of supporting the combined weight of the driver and the seat. The driver also wears fireproof underwear and balaclava under the helmet. Even the zipper and thread used to sew it should be able to withstand these high temperatures. This is to ensure the wearer is not affected by the heat in case of a fire. Also, the inside of the suit must not cross 41 degree Celsius for at least 11 seconds. This suit is then put through a punishing test in which it has to remain intact at temperatures of about 800 degree Celsius. The suit is put through 15 washing and drying cycles before being tested. These suits are breathable and allow sweat to dry.ĭrivers and pit crew wear suits that are made up of two to four layers of Nomex. The pit crew also wear suits made of this material. It should also be able to resist ignition for 10 seconds and only then is it allowed for use in competition. These suits are tested with open flames at about 400 degree Celsius. Drivers nowadays wear suits made of Nomex, which is a fire-resistant and lightweight fibre. Safety clothing technology has moved far ahead since the late 70s. This would have meant a lot of discomfort for the drivers. It raised the safety level for drivers in competition but it was a five-layer suit that was also heavy. In 1979, Niki Lauda, Carlos Reutemann and Mario Andretti became the first to compete in five-layer fireproof overalls, the same used by US space agency NASA. In 1975, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) brought out standards for fireproof clothing. In either of these circumstances, the driver is in danger of severe burns. Hot fuel on hot engine parts is going to be disaster.Ĭonsider the situation when refuelling was allowed in F1, there have been instances in which fuel spilt on the car has gone up in flames. Consider the situation when there is a fuel leak. The colourfully designed overalls are more than just sporting gear. Modern driver gear is designed to minimise chance of injury. An impact could also cause serious injury to the head or neck. The modern Formula 1 car is built to absorb force in case of an accident and keep the driver safe.īut the driver is still exposed to dangers like getting hit by flying debris or injury due to fire.
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