Halo (safety device)

[3] In a simulation performed by the FIA, using the data of 40 real incidents, the use of the system led to a 17% theoretical increase in the survival rate of the driver.

[6] "Fighter-jet style" screens were largely seen as the least effective early due to problems with flexing too much or shattering, depending on material used.

In many cases the system was able to prevent the helmet from coming into contact with a barrier when checked against a series of accidents that had occurred in the past.

During the study of the last case it was found that the halo was able to deflect large objects and provide greater protection against smaller debris.

After the drivers had expressed their opposition to the introduction of the halo system, the FIA developed "Shield", a transparent polyvinyl chloride screen.

[18] Though, other former drivers, including Jackie Stewart, welcomed the system and compared it to the introduction of seat belts, which had been similarly criticised, but then became the norm also on road cars.

Formula One does not really profit from the race and they only do it because they want to advertise their name; thus, spending that amount of money on the halo comes as a surprise according to Force India technical boss, Andy Green.

[22][23] The halo was credited with potentially saving the life of Alex Peroni after his vehicle became airborne and crashed during a Formula 3 event at Monza on 7 September 2019.

[24] It also played a critical role in protecting Romain Grosjean at the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix where, after hitting Daniil Kvyat's car, he crashed into the barriers head-on.

Despite initial concern over drivers being unable to evacuate quickly due to the halo, Grosjean was able to climb out largely unassisted, despite the car catching fire upon impact with the barrier.

[28] At the 2022 British Grand Prix, Zhou Guanyu said the halo saved his life after his Alfa Romeo flipped over, spun and careered over the tyre barrier, because the roll hoop collapsed as soon as it hit the tarmac.

[29] Before Zhou's incident, during the Formula 2 feature race earlier in the day, the halo potentially saved the life of Roy Nissany after a collision with Dennis Hauger.

[31] The halo also potentially saved the lives of Zane Maloney and Oliver Goethe during the sixth lap of the 2022 Spa-Francorchamps Formula 3 round Sprint Race.