Collection: Protos Integral Helmets
Protos Integral helmets are industry-leading head protection systems designed for professional arborists working in demanding environments. Built for maximum safety, all-day comfort and exceptional stability, the Protos Integral platform combines a secure fit with outstanding ventilation and modular accessories. This collection includes the full range of Protos Integral Arborist, Forest and Industry helmets, along with compatible ear protection, visors and communication upgrades. Trusted by tree surgeons across the UK, Protos Integral helmets deliver reliable performance in challenging weather, high-climbing scenarios and fast-paced forestry operations.
Protos Integral helmets are industry-leading head protection systems des ...
Buyer's Guide
PROTOS Integral Helmet Buyer's Guide
The PROTOS Integral is the most specified professional chainsaw helmet for arborists in the UK — combining EN 397 head protection, integrated ear defenders and a certified mesh visor in a single modular unit. This guide covers the Arborist vs Forest models, visor options including custom visors, the full accessory range and sizing guidance.
PROTOS Integral Arborist vs Forest - Which Model?
The PROTOS Integral Arborist is designed for tree surgeons and climbers - it combines chainsaw protection (EN 397), a full mesh visor and integrated ear defenders in one certified unit, with a climbing harness attachment point at the rear for aerial work. The PROTOS Integral Forest is built for ground-level forestry and felling work, with the same head and hearing protection but without the climbing attachment. Both models are made by Pfanner in Austria and are the most widely specified professional chainsaw helmets on UK arborist sites.
PROTOS vs Other Chainsaw Helmets
The PROTOS Integral is widely regarded as the benchmark chainsaw helmet for professional arborists, distinguished by its superior ventilation system, modular accessory platform and the combination of EN 397 head protection, EN 352 hearing protection and EN 1731 visor certification in a single integrated unit. Compared to standard helmet-plus-visor combinations, the PROTOS Integral delivers a lower centre of gravity, better stability at height and a significantly more comfortable fit over a full working day - key factors for arborists spending extended periods in the canopy.
PROTOS Integral Visors
The PROTOS Integral ships with a standard EN 1731 certified mesh visor providing impact and cut protection during chainsaw work. The visor pivots upward and locks in position, allowing quick transitions between cutting and other tasks. Replacement visors, tinted sun visors and clear polycarbonate visors are available as accessories. The visor connects via a patented quick-release rail system - removing and fitting takes under 30 seconds without tools.
Custom PROTOS Visors
The PROTOS Integral supports custom printed visors through Pfanner's bespoke customisation service - allowing arborist companies and individual operators to add company logos, names and custom graphics directly onto the visor panel. Custom PROTOS visors are a popular choice for professional arborist businesses looking to brand their team PPE. Contact Gustharts to discuss custom PROTOS visor options, lead times and minimum order quantities.
PROTOS Accessories - Ear Defenders, Glasses and Hygiene Kits
The PROTOS Integral accessory range includes: replacement and upgraded ear defenders in standard and high-attenuation versions; PROTOS Integral glasses and sunglasses that clip directly into the helmet frame and sit behind the visor; PROTOS hygiene kits with replacement foam pads for the head band and ear cushions; and communication headsets compatible with the PROTOS ear defender mount. All accessories are fitted without tools using the PROTOS quick-release rail system.
EN 397 and EN 12492 - Chainsaw Helmet Standards Explained
EN 397 is the European standard for industrial safety helmets - required for all chainsaw operators in professional arborist and forestry work in the UK. EN 12492 is the standard for mountaineering helmets and is sometimes specified for aerial tree work where impact from a different angle is anticipated. The PROTOS Integral Arborist meets EN 397 as a minimum. All UK chainsaw operators are required under PUWER to wear a certified helmet - the PROTOS Integral satisfies this requirement and additionally provides integrated hearing and face protection.
PROTOS Integral Fit, Sizing and Adjustment
The PROTOS Integral is available in sizes S/M and L/XL. The internal adjustment wheel allows fine-tuning of the head band circumference for a secure fit within each size range. The helmet should sit level on the head with the front brim approximately two fingers above the eyebrow. Ear defenders should fully enclose the ears without gap. If in doubt between sizes, size up - an S/M that is too small will sit high and compromise chainsaw protection. Gustharts can advise on sizing for specific head circumferences.
Pairs Well With
- Chainsaw Clothing & PPE — trousers, boots and gloves for compliant cutting
- Chainsaw Helmets — full range including STIHL, Petzl and PROTOS
- Climbing Harness Accessories — saddles and harnesses for aerial arborist work
- Chainsaw Trousers — Type A and Type C, all classes
- Chainsaws — STIHL and ECHO petrol and battery models
