Headgear should be compulsory for all rugby players, say scientists

SCIENTISTS have called for mandatory headgear to be introduced in rugby after a study found it can almost halve the force on players’ heads.

A team from the University of Dundee recorded a 47 per cent reduction in impact when using some mainstream products.

Even the least effective device tested made a ‘significant’ difference in preventing injuries.

The researchers are now urging the sport to introduce ‘common sense’ mandatory protective headgear at both amateur and professional levels.

Professor Rami Abboud said: ‘The issue of head injuries in rugby, such as concussion, has become increasingly prevalent, with players often exposed to extreme forces, particularly at the professional level.

‘This research has shown how significant a difference these products can make in helping to minimise the risk rugby players face on the field.

‘You don’t want to go as far as American Football with its hard helmets, but there is a need for common sense to help minimise head injuries. These are relatively simple devices that can make a significant difference in protecting players. If it became mandatory to wear these, then further injuries could be prevented.’

Products from seven manufacturers were selected for the trial. Each demonstrated a ‘significant’ decrease in the impact upon the head, ranging from a reduction of 27 per cent to 47 per cent.

Erin Frizzell, the study’s lead author, said: ‘The regulations set by World Rugby on headgear are very strict. It would be interesting to see if we could improve protection levels further if these rules were relaxed.’

James Robson, chief medical officer for Scottish Rugby, said: ‘This is an illuminating piece of research which re-opens the debate regarding the use of headguards in contact sport, particularly rugby.

‘We will look more closely at where this leads in terms of head protection and possible concussion risk management.’