Face Protectors & Hockey Helmets

To avoid head and eye injuries, it is important to wear proper safety equipment like helmets and face protectors or visors when playing hockey.

Face protectors and hockey helmets sold in Canada must meet the safety standards set by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).

Safety Tips

• Look for the CSA mark when buying a helmet, face protector or visor.
• To be effective, your face protector must be in good condition and be fastened securely to your helmet.
• If available separate from the helmet, a face protector must have all of the hardware and instructions for proper installation.
• Hockey helmets must be in good condition, fit properly and have a chin strap. If you are not sure of a helmet's quality or condition, don't buy it.
• Hockey helmets must show the date the helmet was made. Helmets more than 5 years old should not be bought or sold, as the parts and materials can break down with age.
• Ice hockey helmets and face protectors must be in good condition. There must be no cracks, missing padding, bent wires, or missing parts. Do not buy them if they have been subjected to a major impact.
• Helmets should not be modified after sale: no drilled holes, stickers, or re-painting. Face protectors should not be modified by cutting away wires.

For More Information

Winter and Sports Safety

•  A Message to all Hockey Players: Protect Your Eyesight using CSA-certified Visors and Face Protectors
  The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) explains how using CSA-certified products reduces eye injuries.
• Safe Winter Fun
  Find out how to stay safe this winter, with these tips on flu, eating well, travel, and more.
• Winter Sports Safety
  More safety tips in a fact sheet format you can print or order online.
•  Injuries Associated with Ice and Snow Sports and Activities (PDF Version - 90 K)
  The Public Health Agency of Canada's 2002 report on injuries related to winter sports.
• Ice Skates, Sleds and Toboggans
  Learn how to stay safe when participating in these popular winter activities.
• Recreational and Sports Products
  Learn safety tips about a variety of summer and winter sports equipment.

Consumer Product Safety

• Is Your Child Safe?
  A guide to help parents keep their children safe and avoid common childhood hazards.
• Safety with Radar
  An activity booklet for children, highlighting key safety messages.
• Second-hand Products and Garage Sale Safety
  Avoid danger and legal issues when buying and selling second-hand products.
•  Food and Consumer Safety Action Plan
  Learn what the federal government is doing to make the products you buy safer.

Additional Resources

• Advisories, Warnings and Recalls
• Report an Unsafe Product
• Contact the Product Safety Office Nearest You
• Subscribe to Consumer Product Safety News
• Publications for Consumer Education
• Legislation and Guidelines
• For Industry and Professionals