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If you’re planning on hitting the race track in 2024 or entering any sanctioned auto racing events, then you’ll definitely need a race seat belt harness.
However, not just any racing seat belts will do, as most tracks and professional events require a harness approved by either the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) or SEMA Foundation, Inc. (SFI).
These organizations set the standards for racing safety equipment, ensuring that every harness meets strict criteria for strength, durability, and performance under extreme conditions.
To help you choose the right race harness approved for your needs, this article reviews everything you need to know about the different requirements and expiration regulations.
Let’s get started.
What Requirements Do Race Harnesses Have?
Unlike traditional 3-point lap/shoulder seat belts in today's passenger cars, racing harnesses feature 4, 5, and 6 points of contact.
These extra-point setups are important as they help spread the impact force more evenly across the body and hold the driver more securely in place during high-speed maneuvers or in the event of an accident or rollover.
But that’s not all; FIA or SEMA-approved racing harnesses are also regulated by the durability of their material, their UV resistance, and what type of locking/latching mechanism is used.
Below, we’ll review more about the FIA, SFI, and their requirements so you know what to expect in 2024.
FIA Specifications
FIA sets rigorous standards for racing safety equipment, including racing seat belts. Under FIA standard 8853/98, each component of a racing harness must feature an FIA tag indicating its expiration year, which begins five years from January 1st following the manufacture date.
For instance, a harness made in 2015 will be tagged as expiring after 2020, potentially offering six years of use if acquired early in the year.
FIA mandates that belts must be replaced if the homologation tag is outdated or missing, although not all tags on the belt need to match in expiration date but must remain valid and legible.
FIA-approved belts, typically made from durable polyester due to its high UV resistance and minimal stretch, are required for sedan style and open wheel formula cars.
These belts undergo stringent tests for breaking loads, elongation rates, and abrasion resistance to ensure maximum safety. Re-webbing of FIA belts is prohibited to maintain integrity and compliance with safety standards.
SFI Standards
SFI offers a range of standards for racing seat belts, including specifications 16.1, 16.2, 16.5, and 16.6, catering to different racing environments.
SFI belts must pass tests for elongation, breaking strength, and body block resistance, with added requirements based on the specific standard, such as micro-slip and abrasion resistance for 16.5 and 16.6.
SFI-certified belts display tags indicating manufacture dates, and they are valid for two years, reflecting the conditions they may endure, especially in drag and circle track racing.
Unlike FIA, SFI allows for re-webbing under standards 16.1 and 16.2 but not for 16.5 and 16.6, which are used under more stringent conditions.
The two-year safety harness expiration is due to factors like material degradation, especially for nylon webbing used in many SFI belts, which can lose tensile strength from UV exposure and other elements. This policy ensures that belts continue to meet safety standards even in the demanding conditions typical of SFI-regulated events.
Guide to Regulations
Understanding and adhering to racing harness regulations is important for safety and compliance in motorsport activities.
Below, we’ll share some key points to help you manage the regulatory details:
- Stay Informed: Regularly check the official websites of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile and the SEMA Foundation, Inc. for the latest safety equipment standards and updates. These platforms are helpful for accessing up-to-date information on racing harness requirements.
- Check Harness Specifications: Ensure your racing harness meets the specific standards set by your event's sanctioning body. This includes checking the number of points on the harness, material specifications, and the presence and validity of certification tags indicating the manufacture and expiration dates.
- Routine Equipment Checks: Before each racing season, inspect your harness to ensure it has valid and legible certification tags, is not past its expiration date, and shows no signs of wear, tear, or damage.
- Community and Workshops: Engage with your local racing community and attend safety workshops. These can be solid sources of information and updates on regulation changes.
- Subscription Services: Consider subscribing to newsletters or alerts from your sanctioning body or safety organizations to receive real-time updates on regulation changes or safety advisories.
Remember, proper compliance with racing harness regulations not only ensures your safety on the track but also upholds the integrity of the sport. Regular updates and checks on your equipment are important steps in your racing preparation.
Choosing a Race Harness
When choosing a race harness for your next track day or sanctioned event, it's important to consider several factors to ensure safety, comfort, and compliance:
- Certification: As mentioned, you should always verify the harness meets current FIA or SFI standards, depending on your racing series requirements. Look for the certification tag on each belt to ensure its validity.
- Points of Contact: Choose between 4, 5, or 6-point harnesses based on the level of safety and type of racing. More points of contact generally provide better restraint during an accident.
- Material and Construction: Opt for a harness made from durable materials like polyester webbing, known for its strength, UV protection, and minimal stretch. Examine the stitching and hardware for quality and durability, which are often found in respected American brands like RJS and JEGS.
- Comfort and Fit: Ensure the harness fits correctly and comfortably. Adjustable straps and proper seat integration are key for maintaining focus and control while driving.
- Buckle/Locking Mechanism Check: Ensure the race harness features a reliable buckle system for safety. Choose between quick-release cam-lock and secure latch-and-link according to your racing needs. Regularly inspect for wear and functionality to ensure your safety in every race.
- Compatibility: Check that the harness is compatible with your vehicle's make and model, as well as your racing seat, to ensure proper installation and functionality.
For a deeper dive into choosing a race harness, check out our detailed buying guide.
JEGS: For All Your Automotive Needs
You should now have a full understanding of the different rules and regulations surrounding racing seat belts. From material type to abrasion resistance, by sticking with racing harnesses approved for your specific type of autosport, you’re sure to have a safe, legal, and fun day at the track.
For all your automotive needs, consider JEGS, a leading supplier of performance auto parts, including SFI and FIA-certified racing harnesses.
Complete your order online and have your products sent straight to your garage. Still have questions? Contact our team today.
