The safety helmet 200 can be adapted to accommodate a wide variety of configurations and/or donning preferences. For example, the safety helmet 200 may be either full-brimmed or cap-style, slotted or non-slotted, vented or non-vented, or any combination thereof. In the embodiment of FIGS. 2A and 2B, for example, the safety helmet 200 is full-brimmed. The helmet 200 may also comprise a climbing and/or low-profile design. According to some embodiments, the helmet 200 is configured for reverse donning. According to yet another embodiment, the ESD protection component 102 can be attached and/or replaced while a suspension system is assembled in the helmet, while a brim of the helmet 200 may be textured for added grip when donning or doffing the helmet 200, according to some embodiments. Examples of safety helmets with which the ESD protection component 102 can be used include, but are not limited to, safety helmets sold under the brand names V-Gard®, V-Gard C1®, V-Gard H1™, V-Gard H2™, V-Gard® 500, Topguard®, Smoothdome®, Skullgard®, Super V®, Comfo-Cap®, Thermalgard®, Nexus Climbing®, and Bump Cap which are manufactured and sold by MSA Safety Incorporated of Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania.

According to some embodiments, the workwear (including the embodiment of a safety helmet depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B) may comprise at least one of the following materials: polyethylene, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), polypropylene, POM (Acetal), polyester, acrylic, clear polycarbonate, nylon, glass-reinforced nylon, heat-resistant nylon, High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), flame-resistant Kevlar fabric, phenolic, Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT), propionate, epoxy-coated steel mesh, heavy-duty anodized aluminum, or any combination thereof. In particular, the ESD protection component 102 may further comprise a plurality of materials such as silver-plated nylon thread, carbon-suffused nylon, carbon black-loaded rubber, silver conductive monofilament, conductive foam, semiconductive material, ceramic material, or any combination thereof.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment wherein the ESD component 102 is part of a fabric 300 that interfaces with a user and conductive layer 204 in accordance with some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure. In addition to, or separately from, the aforementioned embodiments, the fabric 300 further comprises a base layer 304 and the ESD protection component 102, wherein the ESD protection component 102 is fixedly attached to the base layer 304. According to at least one non-limiting embodiment, the ESD component 102 may comprise at least one layer of material that is grafted, glued, sewn, or molded onto the base layer 304 to form a flexible material. According to some embodiments, this base layer 304 comprises one or more of the following: a flexible substrate, a textile, an anti-static cloth, a hook-and-loop fastener, knitted ribbon, spandex, or any combination thereof.

The base layer 304 may be attached to one or both sides of the ESD component 102. Likewise, the ESD component 102 may be attached to one or more sides of the base layer 304. Furthermore, the base layer 304 and/or the ESD component 102 may comprise a plurality of layers. There may be one or more openings 306 and/or junctures within the base layer 304 and/or ESD component 102. In use, the fabric 300 is configured such that at least a portion of the surface area of the ESD component 102 is exposed to the conductive layer 204 while being in either direct or indirect contact with the head and/or body 230 of the user, thereby forming an electrically conductive path between the conductive layer 204 and the head and/or body 230 of the user. According to some embodiments, the base layer 304 is substantially electrically non-conductive and/or substantially static-dissipative. According to other embodiments, the base layer 304 may comprise a semiconductor. According to some embodiments, fabric 300 further comprises an electrically-insulating layer deposed between the base layer 304 and the ESD protection component 102. According to further embodiments, the ESD protection component 102 is preferably configured to move substantially in-tandem with the base layer 304.

In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the ESD component 102 may be formed on an insert that is formed separately from the outer shell 206. The insert can be removably or non-removably connected to the outer shell 206. For example, the ESD component 102 may be formed on the base layer 304, wherein the base layer 304 is co-molded with the outer shell 206 during manufacture of the outer shell. In this manner, the insert having the ESD component 102 is integrally formed with the inner surface 214 of the outer shell 206. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the ESD component 102 may be formed on the base layer 304 that is configured to be thermoformed with the outer shell 206. The base layer 304 may be a high density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or other thermoplastic film. The ESD component 102 may be vapor deposited to the base layer 304 (using CVD or PVD) prior to joining the base layer 304 to the conductive layer 204 and/or inner surface 214 of the outer shell 206.

During injection molding of the outer shell 206, the insert may be placed over a core and the outer shell 206 can be injection molded/formed over the insert. Techniques for molding the insert with the outer shell 206 include overmolding, insert molding, and co-molding. In this manner, the insert having the ESD component 102 is formed integrally with the conductive layer 204 and/or the inner surface 214 of the outer shell 206 without the need for adhering or clipping the insert containing the ESD component 102 to the outer shell 206. In some embodiments or aspects, the insert having the ESD component 102 may be secured to the conductive layer 204 and/or the inner surface 214 using adhesive, ultrasonic bonding, one or more mechanical clips or fasteners, or via press fit. The insert containing the ESD component 102 may be removably or non-removably secured to the conductive layer 204 and/or the inner surface 214 of the outer shell 206.

According to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, electrically conductive layer 204 is applied on an insert that is removably or non-removably connected to the outer shell 206 of the helmet. For example, the insert might be configured to connect to the outer shell 206 by at least one of the following: adhesive, one or more mechanical clips or fasteners, press fit, ultrasonic bonding, or any combination thereof. According to another embodiment, the insert further comprises a substrate made from thermoplastic film. According to at least one embodiment, the insert comprising the conductive layer 204 further comprises an evaporative cooling pad inside the cavity of the outer shell 206 defined by the inner surface 214 and/or interior if the helmet. This evaporative cooling pad, according to a further embodiment, comprises of a top waterproof, vapor permeable layer and a bottom waterproof, vapor permeable layer with a second cavity defined there between. According to yet a further embodiment, the top and bottom layers comprise a nylon material laminated with a waterproof and vapor permeable material. According to some embodiments, at least one of the top and bottom layers comprises polyurethane or polytetrafluoroethylene.

FIG. 4A is a posterior oblique cutaway view of a safety helmet 400 equipped with ESD component 102 which is integrated within the suspension system 404 of the safety helmet 400 in accordance with some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 4B is a bottom plan view of safety helmet 400. In addition to, or separately from, the aforementioned embodiments, the ESD protection component 102 comprises the suspension system 404 further comprising a first portion configured to be removably connected to the electrically conductive layer 204 via an electrically conductive connection mechanism, as well as a second portion configured to be in contact with the wearer of the helmet. The ESD protection component 102 is configured to provide a path for electric current to flow from the electrically conductive layer 204, through the electrically conductive connection mechanism, and to the wearer of the helmet. According to some embodiments, the electrically conductive connection mechanism comprises at least one of the following: a button, a stud, a socket, an eyelet, a snap, a clip, a rivet, a screw, a nail, a staple, a clasp, a pin, a bolt, a buckle, a hook, a zipper, or any combination thereof.

In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the suspension system 404 further comprises a plurality of straps for supporting the shell 206 on the head of a user. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the suspension system 404 may comprise of a pliable material, such as fabric formed in the shape of a web, and may be attached to the conductive layer 204 and/or the inner surface 214 to comfortably position the helmet 200 on the head of a user. The suspension web may take a variety of forms including a plurality of straps extending radially from a central point or a mesh, which can take a variety of forms such as triangular, square, rectangular, hexagonal, for example. As depicted in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the suspension system 404 comprises both a set of intersecting crown straps 406 and a nape strap 408. In the embodiments of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the ESD component 102 is integrated within at least one of the plurality of straps, wherein the at least one strap is configured to either directly or indirectly electrically couple to both the conductive layer 204 of the safety helmet 400 and to the skin of the user. The suspension system 404 may be either removably or fixedly attached to the outer shell 206 of the safety helmet 400.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the ESD protection component 102 may further comprise a wide variety of helmet accessories and add-ons in addition to or in place of the suspension system 404, such as at least one of the following: a sweatband, a crown pad, a ratchet pad, a chin-strap, a ratchet assembly, a visor, a visor frame, a face shield, a chin-protector, a brow-guard, a liner, a sunshade, a sun shield, a cooling pad, a goggle retainer, a lanyard, earmuffs, a respirator, or any combination thereof. According to one such embodiment, the liner further comprises a cloth tube that covers at least one of the following features of the wearer: the ears, the mouth, the cheeks, the neck, or any combination thereof. According to another such embodiment, the liner comprises an extended nape portion and a wraparound collar for tucking into a coat or shirt of the wearer. According to yet another such embodiment, the liner comprises a skull-style cap. According to some embodiments, at least one ESD protection component 102 is washable. Examples of suspension systems with which the ESD protection component 102 can be used include, but are not limited to, suspension systems sold under the brand names Fas-Trac®, Staz-On®, and 1-Touch® which are manufactured and sold by MSA Safety Incorporated of Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania. According to an alternative embodiment, the suspension system comprises a swing ratchet.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C depict close-up diagrams of three variations of adjustment assemblies 500 that may be part of the suspension system 400 integrated with the ESD protection component 102 in accordance with some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 5A depicts an adjustment assembly for a Fas-Trac® suspension system, and comprises a ratchet wheel 502 and teeth 504. FIG. 5B depicts an adjustment assembly for a Staz-On® suspension system, and comprises a lock 506 and a slide tab 508. FIG. 5C depicts an adjustment assembly for a 1-Touch® suspension system, and comprises a ratchet 510 and a release tab 512. As shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, each adjustment assembly 500 connects either side of the nape strap 408 together, and each adjustment assembly is preferably configured to be in direct contact with the skin of the user when tightened to securely fit the head of the user. According to the embodiments of FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, the ESD protection component 102 comprises at least a portion of the surface area of the adjustment assemblies configured to contact the skin of the user and, in use, forms an electrically conductive and/or semiconductive path through the nape strap 408 to the conductive layer 204 of the of the safety helmet 400.

FIG. 6 is a cutaway side-view of a safety helmet 600 and a removable and/or disposable sweatband 602 that is oriented for installation within the helmet 600, wherein the sweatband 602 comprises the ESD protection component 102 in accordance with some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure. The sweatband 602, as depicted in FIG. 6, comprises sweat-absorbing fabric lined and/or impregnated with the ESD protection component 102 that is configured to be in direct contact with the skin of the head of the user when installed within the safety helmet 600. For installation, the sweatband 602 comprises a plurality of connection tabs 604 that attach to a plurality of corresponding connection receptacles 606 located within the safety helmet 600. The plurality of connection receptables 606 may be in direct contact with the conductive layer 204 (such as in the example of FIG. 2) and/or indirect contact with the conductive layer 204 (such as in the example of FIG. 4). The sweatband 602 and helmet 600 are configured such that at least one interface between a connection receptable 606 and an associated connection tab 604 forms an electrical path between the ESD protection component 102 of the sweatband 602 to the conductive layer 204 of the helmet 600. It should be noted that one or more of the plurality of connection receptables 606 may be interchangeable with one or more of the plurality of connection tabs 604 between the sweatband 602 and helmet 600 (e.g., the plurality of connection receptacles 606 could instead be located on the conductive and/or semiconductive sweatband 602 while the plurality of connection tabs 604 are located on the helmet 600). Furthermore, the plurality of connection tabs 604 and/or the plurality of connection receptacles 606 may be continuous. For example, they may form a zipper at their interface. According to some embodiments, the connection tabs 604 and/or connection receptacles 606 comprise at least one of the following: a button, a stud, a socket, an eyelet, a snap, a clip, a rivet, a screw, a nail, a staple, a clasp, a pin, a bolt, a buckle, a hook, a zipper, or any combination thereof.

FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C together depict a chinstrap assembly comprising of a safety helmet 700 and a chinstrap 702 comprising the ESD protection component 102 in accordance with some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 7A depicts a detached chinstrap 702 comprising fabric straps that are at least partially lined with the ESD protection component 102. Preferably, the ESD protection component 102 is integrated throughout the chinstrap 702 so as to maximize direct or indirect points of contact with the head of the user. In the embodiment of FIG. 7A, the chinstrap 702 comprises a belt and/or buckle 703 that is at least partially electrically conductive and/or semiconductive and connected to the ESD protection component 102. FIG. 7A depicts a 4-point chinstrap, but other configurations with fewer or more points of contact, particularly a 2-point or 6-point chinstrap, are also contemplated. FIG. 7B depicts an oblique bottom view of the safety helmet 700 and the chinstrap 702, wherein the chinstrap 702 is oriented for installation within helmet 700. FIG. 7C depicts the safety helmet 700 complexed with the chinstrap 702 following installation of the chinstrap 702. The plurality of connection tabs 704 and the plurality of connection receptacles 706 are similar in configuration to the plurality of connection tabs 604 and the plurality of connection receptables 606, respectively.

FIG. 8 depicts a safety harness 800 comprising the ESD protection component 102 in accordance with some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure. In addition to, or separately from, the aforementioned embodiments, the harness 800 comprises a plurality of straps 802 lined with the ESD protection component 102 and a plurality of electrically conductive components 804. At least one of the plurality of conductive components 804 is configured to participate in joining two or more straps of the plurality of ESD-lined straps 802 together. The harness 800 is configured to provide a path along at least one of the plurality of ESD-lined straps 802 for electrostatic charges to pass from at least one of the plurality of electrically conductive components 804 to the head and/or body 230 of the wearer. According to the embodiment of FIG. 8, the plurality of straps 802 converge to meet at at least one of the plurality of electrically conductive components 804 comprising an electrically conductive adjustment mechanism 806. According to an embodiment, the ESD protection component 102 comprises a first portion configured to be in contact with the electrically conductive adjustment mechanism, and a second portion configured to be in contact with a wearer of the harness system. According to further embodiments, the ESD protection component 102 is fixedly attached to at least one of the plurality of straps 802. In some embodiments, the plurality of straps 802 and/or the plurality of conductive components 804 comprise a semiconductor.

According to some embodiments, the plurality of straps 802 comprise a first strap configured for surrounding a first shoulder of a wearer, wherein the length of the first strap is adjustable via a first adjustment mechanism. Similarly, some embodiments further comprise a second strap configured for surrounding a second shoulder of the wearer, wherein the length of the second strap is adjustable via a second adjustment mechanism. Preferably, the first strap and the second strap converge to meet. Some embodiments further comprise yet a third strap configured for surrounding a waist of the wearer, wherein the length of the third strap is adjustable via a third adjustment mechanism. According to some embodiments, at least one adjustment mechanism comprises an electrically conductive component of the plurality of electrically conductive components 804. According to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8, the safety harness 800 further comprises fourth and fifth straps that wrap around each of the wearer's legs, and are further adjustable via fourth and fifth adjustment mechanisms, respectively. The fourth and fifth straps are each connected to at least one other strap of the plurality of straps. As depicted in the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 8, the fourth and fifth straps are connected to the third strap by fifth and sixth straps, respectively.

The language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter. It is therefore intended that the scope of the disclosure be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based hereon. Accordingly, the disclosure of the embodiments of the disclosure is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the disclosure, which is set forth in the following claims.

Although the disclosure has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration based on what are currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments or aspects, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments or aspects, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment or aspect can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment or aspect.

Other Exemplary Embodiments
Examples A

Example A1. A device, comprising:

- a helmet comprising:
  - an outer shell configured for surrounding a head of a wearer, and
  - an electrically conductive layer disposed in an interior of the outer shell; and
- an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component positioned in at least a portion of a cavity defined by the interior of the outer shell, the ESD protection component comprising:
  - a first portion configured to be in contact with the electrically conductive layer, and
  - a second portion configured to be in contact with the wearer of the helmet; and wherein the ESD protection component is configured to provide a path for electric current to flow between the electrically conductive layer and the wearer of the helmet.

A2. The device of example A1, wherein the second portion of the ESD protection component is configured to contact the skin on the head or neck of the wearer.

A3. The device of example A1, wherein the first portion of the ESD protection component comprises a first end and the second portion of the ESD protection component comprises a second end.

A4. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises circuitry that is configured to electrically couple the electrically conductive layer to the wearer, such that the electrically conductive layer and the wearer have the same voltage potential while the device is in use.

A5. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises at least one of the following: silver-plated nylon thread, carbon-suffused nylon, carbon black-loaded rubber, silver conductive monofilament, conductive foam, semiconductive material, ceramic material, or any combination thereof.

A6. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to provide 360-degree contact with the wearer.

A7. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component is contoured for closer fit with the wearer.

A8. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to create a tight seal with the wearer.

A9. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises multiple points of contact with the wearer to ensure the path for electric current to flow stays intact.

A10. The device of example A3, wherein the first end is configured to extend to a top of the head of the wearer, and wherein the second end is configured to be in contact with a forehead of the wearer.

A11. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component can be attached and/or replaced while a suspension system is assembled in the helmet.

A12. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to electrically couple the electrically conductive layer to the wearer inside a high-voltage electric field.

A13. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent microshocks to the wearer.

A14. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent corona discharges from occurring on the wearer.

A15. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent the wearer from participating in triboelectric charging.

A16. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component further comprises a resistor.

A17. The device of example A1, wherein the helmet is configured to provide dielectric protection up to 20,000 volts.

A18. The device of example A1, wherein the electrically conductive layer comprises at least one of the following: aluminum, gold, silver, copper, doped titanium dioxide, doped or undoped indium tin oxide, doped cerium oxide, doped manganese oxide, iron (III) oxide, cadmium sulfide, chromium trioxide, or any combination thereof.

A19. The device of example A1, wherein the helmet is at least one of the following: full-brimmed or cap-style, slotted or non-slotted, vented or non-vented, climbing or low-profile style, or any combination thereof.

A20. The device of example A1, wherein the helmet is configured for reverse donning.

A21. The device of example A1, wherein a brim of the helmet is textured for added grip when donning or doffing the helmet.

A22. The device of example A1, wherein the electrically conductive layer further comprises at least one of the following: a rotatable joint, a welding lug, a pivot hinge, a lamp bracket, a cord holder, an attachment rail, a lighting clip, a headlamp strap clip, a stowable slot adaptor, a sliding adjustment blade, or any combination thereof.

A23. The device of example A1, wherein the ESD protection component further comprises at least one of the following: a rotatable joint, a welding lug, a pivot hinge, a lamp bracket, a cord holder, an attachment rail, a lighting clip, a headlamp strap clip, a stowable slot adaptor, a sliding adjustment blade, or any combination thereof.

A24. The device of example A1, wherein the helmet comprises at least one of the following materials: polyethylene, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), polypropylene, POM (Acetal), polyester, acrylic, clear polycarbonate, nylon, glass-reinforced nylon, heat-resistant nylon, High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), flame-resistant Kevlar fabric, phenolic, Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT), propionate, epoxy-coated steel mesh, heavy-duty anodized aluminum, or any combination thereof.

A25. The device of example A1, wherein the outer shell comprises at least one safety helmet sold under the following brand names: V-Gard®, V-Gard C1®, V-Gard H1™, V-Gard H2™, V-Gard® 500, Topguard®, Smoothdome®, Skullgard®, Super V®, Comfo-Cap®, Thermalgard®, Nexus Climbing®, and Bump Cap.

A26. The device of example A1, wherein the electrically conductive layer is applied on an insert that is removably or non-removably connected to the outer shell of the helmet.

A27. The device of example A26, the insert further configured to connect to the outer shell by at least one of the following: adhesive, one or more mechanical clips or fasteners, press fit, ultrasonic bonding, or any combination thereof.

A28. The device of example A26, the insert further comprising an evaporative cooling pad inside the cavity of the outer shell defined by the inner surface, the evaporative cooling pad comprising: a top waterproof, vapor permeable layer and a bottom waterproof, vapor permeable layer with a second cavity defined there between.

A29. The device of example A26, the insert further comprising a substrate made from thermoplastic film.

A30 The device of example A28, wherein the top and bottom layers comprise a nylon material laminated with a waterproof and vapor permeable material.

A31. The device of example A28, wherein at least one of the top and bottom layers comprises polyurethane or polytetrafluoroethylene.

A32. The device of example A16, wherein the resistor has a resistance of less than 35 megohms.

Examples B

Example B1. A device, comprising:

- a helmet comprising:
  - an outer shell configured for surrounding a head of a wearer; and
  - an electrically conductive layer disposed in an interior of the outer shell;
- an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component positioned in at least a portion of a cavity defined by the interior of the outer shell, the ESD protection component comprising:
  - a first portion configured to be removably connected to the electrically conductive layer via an electrically conductive connection mechanism, and
  - a second portion configured to be in contact with the wearer of the helmet; and
- wherein the ESD protection component is configured to provide a path for electric current to flow from the electrically conductive layer, through the electrically conductive connection mechanism, and to the wearer of the helmet.

B2. The device of example B1, wherein the second portion of the ESD protection component is configured to connect to skin on the head or neck of the wearer.

B3. The device of example B1, wherein the first portion of the ESD protection component comprises a first end and the second portion of the ESD protection component comprises a second end.

B4. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises circuitry that is configured to electrically couple the electrically conductive layer to the wearer, such that the electrically conductive layer and the wearer have the same voltage potential while the device is in use.

B5. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises at least one of the following: silver-plated nylon thread, carbon-suffused nylon, carbon black-loaded rubber, silver conductive monofilament, conductive foam, semiconductive material, ceramic material, or any combination thereof.

B6. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to provide 360-degree contact with the wearer.

B7. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component is contoured for closer fit with the wearer.

B8. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to create a tight seal with the wearer.

B9. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises multiple points of contact with the wearer to ensure the path for electric current to flow stays intact.

B10. The device of example B3, wherein the first end is configured to extend to a top of the head of the wearer, and wherein the second end is configured to be in contact with a forehead of the wearer.

B11. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component further comprises at least one of the following: a suspension system, a sweatband, a crown pad, a ratchet pad, a chin-strap, a ratchet assembly, a visor, a visor frame, a face shield, a chin-protector, a brow-guard, a liner, a sunshade, a sun shield, a cooling pad, a goggle retainer, a lanyard, earmuffs, a respirator, or any combination thereof.

B12. The device of example B11, wherein the liner comprises a cloth tube that covers at least one of the following features of the wearer: the ears, the mouth, the cheeks, the neck, or any combination thereof.

B13. The device of example B11, wherein the liner comprises an extended nape portion and a wraparound collar for tucking into a coat or shirt of the wearer.

B14. The device of example B11, wherein the liner comprises a skull-style cap.

B15. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component is washable.

B16. The device of example B11, wherein the suspension system comprises at least one of the following: an adjustment assembly for a Fas-Trac® suspension system, an adjustment assembly for a 1-Touch® suspension system, an adjustment assembly for a Staz-On® suspension system, a swing ratchet, or a combination thereof.

B17. The device of example B11, wherein the suspension system comprises a nape strap.

B18. The device of example B1, wherein the electrically conductive connection mechanism comprises at least one of the following: a button, a stud, a socket, an eyelet, a snap, a clip, a rivet, a screw, a nail, a staple, a clasp, a pin, a bolt, a buckle, a hook, a zipper, or any combination thereof.

B19. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to electrically couple the electrically conductive layer to the wearer inside a high-voltage electric field.

B20. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent microshocks to the wearer.

B21. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent corona discharges from occurring on the wearer.

B22. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent the wearer from participating in triboelectric charging.

B23. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component further comprises a resistor.

B24. The device of example B1, wherein the helmet is configured to provide dielectric protection up to 20,000 volts.

B25. The device of example B1, wherein the electrically conductive layer comprises at least one of the following: aluminum, gold, silver, copper, doped titanium dioxide, doped or undoped indium tin oxide, doped cerium oxide, doped manganese oxide, iron (III) oxide, cadmium sulfide, chromium trioxide, or any combination thereof.

B26. The device of example B1, wherein the helmet is at least one of the following: full-brimmed or cap-style, slotted or non-slotted, vented or non-vented, climbing or low-profile design, or any combination thereof.

B27. The device of example B1, wherein the helmet is configured for reverse donning.

B28. The device of example B1, wherein a brim of the helmet is textured for added grip when donning or doffing the helmet.

B29. The device of example B1, wherein the electrically conductive layer further comprises at least one of the following: a rotatable joint, a welding lug, a pivot hinge, a lamp bracket, a cord holder, an attachment rail, a lighting clip, a headlamp strap clip, a stowable slot adaptor, a sliding adjustment blade, or any combination thereof.

B30. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component further comprises at least one of the following: a rotatable joint, a welding lug, a pivot hinge, a lamp bracket, a cord holder, an attachment rail, a lighting clip, a headlamp strap clip, a stowable slot adaptor, a sliding adjustment blade, or any combination thereof.

B31. The device of example B1, wherein the helmet comprises at least one of the following materials: polyethylene, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), polypropylene, POM (Acetal), polyester, acrylic, clear polycarbonate, nylon, glass-reinforced nylon, heat-resistant nylon, High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), flame-resistant Kevlar fabric, phenolic, Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT), propionate, epoxy-coated steel mesh, heavy-duty anodized aluminum, or any combination thereof.

B32. The device of example B1, wherein the outer shell comprises at least one safety helmet sold under the following brand names: V-Gard®, V-Gard C1®, V-Gard H1™, V-Gard H2™, V-Gard® 500, Topguard®, Smoothdome®, Skullgard®, Super V®, Comfo-Cap®, Thermalgard®, Nexus Climbing®, and Bump Cap.

B33. The device of example B1, wherein the electrically conductive layer is applied on an insert that is removably or non-removably connected to the outer shell of the helmet.

B34. The device of example B33, the insert further configured to connect to the outer shell by at least one of the following: adhesive, one or more mechanical clips or fasteners, press fit, ultrasonic bonding, or any combination thereof.

B35. The device of example B33, the insert further comprising an evaporative cooling pad inside the cavity of the outer shell defined by the inner surface, the evaporative cooling pad comprising: a top waterproof, vapor permeable layer and a bottom waterproof, vapor permeable layer with a second cavity defined there between.

B36. The device of example B33, the insert further comprising a substrate made from thermoplastic film.

B37. The device of example B35, wherein the top and bottom layers comprise a nylon material laminated with a waterproof and vapor permeable material.

B38. The device of example B35, wherein at least one of the top and bottom layers comprises polyurethane or polytetrafluoroethylene.

B39. The device of example B1, wherein the ESD protection component can be attached and/or replaced while a suspension system is assembled in the helmet.

Examples C

Example C1. A device, comprising:

- a helmet comprising:
  - an outer shell configured for surrounding a head of a wearer, and
  - an electrically conductive layer disposed in an interior of the outer shell;
- a base layer positioned in at least a portion of a cavity defined by the interior of the outer shell; and
- an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component fixedly attached to the base layer, the ESD protection component comprising:
  - a first portion configured to be in contact with the electrically conductive layer, and
  - a second portion configured to be in contact with the wearer of the helmet; and
- wherein the ESD protection component is configured to provide a path for electric current to flow between the electrically conductive layer and the wearer of the helmet.

C2. The device of example C1, wherein the second portion of the ESD protection component is configured to contact the skin on the head or neck of the wearer.

C3. The device of example C1, wherein the first portion of the ESD protection component comprises a first end and the second portion of the ESD protection component comprises a second end.

C4. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises circuitry that is configured to electrically couple the electrically conductive layer to the wearer, such that the electrically conductive layer and the wearer have the same voltage potential while the device is in use.

C5. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises at least one of the following: silver-plated nylon thread, carbon-suffused nylon, carbon black-loaded rubber, silver conductive monofilament, conductive foam, semiconductive material, ceramic material, or any combination thereof.

C6. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to provide 360-degree contact with the wearer.

C7. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component is contoured for closer fit with the wearer.

C8. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to create a tight seal with the wearer.

C9. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises multiple points of contact with the wearer to ensure the path for electric current to flow stays intact.

C10. The device of example C3, wherein the first end is configured to extend to a top of the head of the wearer, and wherein the second end is configured to be in contact with a forehead of the wearer.

C11. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component can be attached and/or replaced while a suspension system is assembled in the helmet.

C12. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to electrically couple the electrically conductive layer to the wearer inside a high-voltage electric field.

C13. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent microshocks to the wearer.

C14. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent corona discharges from occurring on the wearer.

C15. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent the wearer from participating in triboelectric charging.

C16. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component further comprises a resistor.

C17. The device of example C1, wherein the helmet is configured to provide dielectric protection up to 20,000 volts.

C18. The device of example C1, wherein the electrically conductive layer comprises at least one of the following: aluminum, gold, silver, copper, doped titanium dioxide, doped or undoped indium tin oxide, doped cerium oxide, doped manganese oxide, iron (III) oxide, cadmium sulfide, chromium trioxide, or any combination thereof.

C19. The device of example C1, wherein the helmet is at least one of the following: full-brimmed or cap-style, slotted or non-slotted, vented or non-vented, climbing or low-profile style, or any combination thereof.

C20. The device of example C1, wherein the helmet is configured for reverse donning.

C21. The device of example C1, wherein a brim of the helmet is textured for added grip when donning or doffing the helmet.

C22. The device of example C1, wherein the electrically conductive layer further comprises at least one of the following: a rotatable joint, a welding lug, a pivot hinge, a lamp bracket, a cord holder, an attachment rail, a lighting clip, a headlamp strap clip, a stowable slot adaptor, a sliding adjustment blade, or any combination thereof.

C23. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component further comprises at least one of the following: a rotatable joint, a welding lug, a pivot hinge, a lamp bracket, a cord holder, an attachment rail, a lighting clip, a headlamp strap clip, a stowable slot adaptor, a sliding adjustment blade, or any combination thereof.

C24. The device of example C1, wherein the helmet comprises at least one of the following materials: polyethylene, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), polypropylene, POM (Acetal), polyester, acrylic, clear polycarbonate, nylon, glass-reinforced nylon, heat-resistant nylon, High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), flame-resistant Kevlar fabric, phenolic, Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT), propionate, epoxy-coated steel mesh, heavy-duty anodized aluminum, or any combination thereof.

C25. The device of example C1, wherein the outer shell comprises a safety helmet sold under at least one of the following brand names: V-Gard®, V-Gard C1®, V-Gard H1™, V-Gard H2™, V-Gard® 500, Topguard®, Smoothdome®, Skullgard®, Super V®, Comfo-Cap®, Thermalgard®, Nexus Climbing®, and Bump Cap.

C26. The device of example C1, wherein the electrically conductive layer is applied on an insert that is removably or non-removably connected to the outer shell of the helmet.

C27. The device of example C26, the insert further configured to connect to the outer shell by at least one of the following: adhesive, one or more mechanical clips or fasteners, press fit, ultrasonic bonding, or any combination thereof.

C28. The device of example C26, the insert further comprising an evaporative cooling pad inside the cavity of the outer shell defined by the inner surface, the evaporative cooling pad comprising: a top waterproof, vapor permeable layer and a bottom waterproof, vapor permeable layer with a second cavity defined there between.

C29. The device of example C26, the insert further comprising a substrate made from thermoplastic film.

C30. The device of example C28, wherein the top and bottom layers comprise a nylon material laminated with a waterproof and vapor permeable material.

C31. The device of example C28, wherein at least one of the top and bottom layers comprises polyurethane or polytetrafluoroethylene.

C32. The device of example C1, wherein the base layer comprises a flexible substrate.

C33. The device of example C1, wherein the base layer comprises a textile.

C34. The device of example C1, wherein the base layer is substantially electrically non-conductive.

C35. The device of example C1, the device further comprising an insulating layer deposed between the base layer and the ESD protection component.

C36. The device of example C1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to move substantially in-tandem with the base layer.

C37. The device of example C1, wherein the base layer is substantially static-dissipative.

C38. The device of example C1, wherein the base layer comprises an anti-static cloth.

C39. The device of example C1, wherein the base layer comprises knitted ribbon.

C40. The device of example C1, wherein the base layer comprises spandex.

C41. The device of example C1, wherein the base layer comprises a hook-and-loop fastener.

Examples D

Example D1. A device, comprising:

- a harness system comprising a plurality of straps that converge to meet at at least one electrically conductive adjustment mechanism; and
- an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component fixedly attached to at least one of the plurality of straps, the ESD protection component comprising:
  - a first portion configured to be in contact with the at least one electrically conductive adjustment mechanism, and
  - a second portion configured to be in contact with a wearer of the harness system; and
- wherein the ESD protection component is configured to provide a path for electric current to flow between the at least one electrically conductive adjustment mechanism and the wearer of the harness system.

D2. The device of example D1, wherein the plurality of straps comprises a first strap configured for surrounding a first shoulder of a wearer, wherein the length of the first strap is adjustable via a first adjustment mechanism.

D3. The device of example D2, wherein the plurality of straps comprises a second strap configured for surrounding a second shoulder of the wearer, wherein the length of the second strap is adjustable via a second adjustment mechanism.

D4. The device of example D3, wherein the plurality of straps comprises a third strap configured for surrounding a waist of the wearer, wherein the length of the third strap is adjustable via a third adjustment mechanism.

D5. The device of example D3, wherein the wherein the first strap and the second strap converge to meet.

D6. The device of example D1, wherein the plurality of straps comprises a leg strap configured for surrounding a leg of the wearer, wherein the length of the leg strap is adjustable via an adjustment mechanism.

D7. The device of example D6, wherein the leg strap is connected to at least one other strap of the plurality of straps.

D8. The device of example D1, wherein the first portion of the ESD protection component comprises a first end and the second portion of the ESD protection component comprises a second end.

D9. The device of example D1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises circuitry that is configured to electrically couple the at least one electrically conductive adjustment mechanism to the wearer, such that the at least one electrically conductive adjustment mechanism and the wearer have the same voltage potential while the device is in use.

D10. The device of example D1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises at least one of the following: silver-plated nylon thread, carbon-suffused nylon, carbon black-loaded rubber, silver conductive monofilament, conductive foam, semiconductive material, ceramic material, or any combination thereof.

D11. The device of example D1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to provide 360-degree contact with the wearer.

D12. The device of example D1, wherein the ESD protection component is contoured for closer fit with the wearer.

D13. The device of example D1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to create a tight seal with the wearer.

D14. The device of example D1, wherein the ESD protection component comprises multiple points of contact with the wearer to ensure the path for electric current to flow stays intact.

D15. The device of example D1, wherein the at least one electrically conductive adjustment mechanism comprises at least one of the following: a button, a stud, a socket, an eyelet, a snap, a clip, a rivet, a screw, a nail, a staple, a clasp, a pin, a bolt, a buckle, a hook, a zipper, or any combination thereof.

D16. The device of example D1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to electrically couple the at least one electrically conductive adjustment mechanism to the wearer inside a high-voltage electric field.

D17. The device of example D1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent microshocks to the wearer.

D18. The device of example D1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent corona discharges from occurring on the wearer.

D19. The device of example D1, wherein the ESD protection component is configured to prevent the wearer from participating in triboelectric charging.

D20. The device of example D1, wherein the ESD protection component further comprises a resistor.

D21. The device of example D1, wherein the at least one electrically conductive adjustment mechanism comprises at least one of the following: aluminum, gold, silver, copper, doped titanium dioxide, doped or undoped indium tin oxide, doped cerium oxide, doped manganese oxide, iron (III) oxide, cadmium sulfide, chromium trioxide, or any combination thereof.