A new collaboration between equine vets, safety experts, and helmet manufacturers is aiming to tackle the alarming injury rates among veterinary professionals working with horses.
The initiative follows research by Dr. John Tulloch, funded by CVS Group, which revealed that 90% of equine vets experience work-related injuries, with head injuries a particular risk. In response, CVS Equine has made protective helmets mandatory for all staff handling horses from early 2025.
At a recent stakeholder meeting, vets, yard managers, researchers from the University of Liverpool, health and safety experts, and helmet specialists from Uvex came together to address the need for helmets designed specifically for equine veterinary practice.
While current options include riding helmets and emergency services headwear, none fully meet the profession’s unique demands. Frontline staff highlighted the need for helmets that balance safety, comfort, practicality, and functionality.
Beyond design, the group acknowledged the cultural change required to normalise helmet use. CVS Equine Director Sophie Ignarski said:
“If the adoption of protective helmets saves just one life or prevents someone from sustaining life-changing injuries, then it is worth it.”
The partnership will focus on consulting veterinary professionals, trialling different PPE, and developing specialist designs. CVS Equine’s policy applies across its 21 UK sites and is expected to influence safety standards across the sector.
This initiative signals a new era of safety awareness in equine veterinary practice, with the potential to reduce life-changing injuries and safeguard those dedicated to horse welfare.
The move comes amid wider concerns about safety for equestrian professionals and employees working around horses. With horses posing risks even in routine handling, there are growing calls for protective headwear and other PPE to be considered not just for vets, but for anyone regularly working with or around equines.