Headlamp technology has come a long way since it was first introduced, with LED lights sources now replacing the candles and light bulbs of previous decades. LED headlamps are used in a number of different industries but there are three specific industries which have gotten the most use out of them (and as such have helped them to evolve into the lightweight and long-lasting versions that are used today.) These key industries are coal mining, search and rescue, and industrial manufacturing, and each of them makes use of headlamps in a slightly different way.
Coal Mining
Having a reliable light source is essential to coal mining, since miners spend much of their time deep underground where no natural light can reach. Early mining headlamps made use of small oil lamps that worked like helmet-mounted candles, but this presented a dangerous situation when pockets of natural gas were encountered or large amounts of coal dust was present. Because safety in the mines is a major concern, an alternative had to be found in order to let coal miners do their job without the danger of fire or explosion.
Battery-powered lanterns were used for years, although the batteries made mining helmets even heavier than they already were. The development of the LED headlamp was the answer to the miners' prayers, allowing them a sturdy and reliable light source that did not need heavy battery packs to keep them going. LED lights provided a better quality light than the early alternatives as well, reducing strain on the miners' eyes.
Search and Rescue
Unlike coal miners, most search and rescue workers spend the majority of their time working outdoors. This does not mean that their work is not hazardous; the lives of adults and children often hang in the balance and rescue crews need to be able to respond to a variety of terrain and weather related situations quickly and efficiently. This efficiency can be greatly reduced by having to carry around a flashlight or battery-powered lantern. Being able to don a LED headlamp makes this important job much easier. The lightweight LED lights are usually sealed so as to be waterproof, so search and rescue workers not only have their hands free but they are also able to do their job effectively regardless of the weather outside.
Industrial Manufacturing
Industrial manufacturing is definitely not easy work, and in most cases whatever job an industrial worker is doing will require them to have both of their hands free to do it. This is fine for line workers who are doing their jobs in well-lit areas, but it can be a major inconvenience for warehouse workers and those who are performing maintenance because they often have to enter into the corners and darker areas of the facility. LED headlamps let them have plenty of light where they need it while keeping their hands free, and the LED lights are generally durable enough that they can take a few bangs and impacts without having to worry about breaking a bulb.
~ Ben Anton, 2008
