What a wonderful thread...
I personally have always worn a helmet...even in SE Asia flying @ +39C. I have worked for a number of companies, however, that balk at Mandating helmets because then they are on the hook to purchase them. I think this sends a lousy message...tout the benefits of helmets but only if the employeee forks over the coin.
My current employer, a Cdn EMS company, underwrites the cost of a helmet purchase by 50%. They buy the helmets bulk from Gentex with a company PO, then the pilot pays his share of the helmet cost over a 6 month period thru a pay deduction. This co-operative system works great and encourages helmet purchases.
But wait, they have an EMS contract that mandates that the Medics wear helmets, thus they pay 100% of the medics' helmets but only 50% of the pilots' helmets!!
How's that for fostering unity among employees!!
We can only purchase the SPH 5. I think if I had my $ over, I would buy an Alpha.
Cheers