Ohio 4-H Horse Program Helmet Policy, as of January 1, 2009

This includes ALL 4-H club riding meetings, practice, trail rides and horse shows

Following is the wording as it is stated in the 2009 Uniform Rules for 4-H Horse Shows with regards to the new helmet policy. For further information, please contact: Dr. Kimberly Cole, Extension Equine Specialist at cole.436@osu.edu

“All youth age 19 and under, participating in any 4-H equestrian activity, are required to wear properly fitted protective headgear which meets or exceeds current ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials)/SEI (Safety Equipment Institute) standards with the chin harness securely fastened at all times while riding or driving an equine.

It is the responsibility of the rider, or the parent or guardian of the youth participant, to make sure that the headgear worn complies with appropriate safety standards for protective headgear intended for equestrian use, and is properly fitted and in good condition.  The Ohio 4-H Horse Program, Show Committees, Officials, Extension Personnel and Volunteer Leaders are not responsible for checking headgear worn for such compliance.

The Ohio 4-H Horse Program, Show Committees, Officials, Extension Personnel and Volunteer Leaders make no representation or warranty, expressed or implied, about any protective headgear, and cautions riders that death or serious injury may result despite wearing such headgear, as no helmet can protect against all foreseeable injuries in equestrian activities.

The Ohio 4-H Horse Program, Show Committees, Officials, Extension Personnel and Volunteer Leaders may, at his/her discretion, check a participant’s protective headgear for proper standards.  If the youth is found to be wearing unapproved, defective, or improperly fitted headgear, he/she will not be permitted to participate in riding or driving activities until proper headgear is acquired.”