HTML5 and using multiple H1 tags

[A_Q]

Hi All,

Our dev team have just asked me a very interesting question........

Within the context of an HTML5 page, where it is supported and encouraged to use multiple H1 tags, will the use of multiple H1 tags be detrimental to SEO? or does Google fully understand how HTML5 works and therefore not penalise a website for using multiple H1 tags?

I have an opinion on this that if it helps usability and user experience then it is likely that it will be good for SEO.

It would be really good to hear views of people who have tried this or have decided against it!

Thanks

[IM_Learner]

Having multiple h1 tags throughout the website is fine but having repetitive h1 on a single page dilutes the importance of h1 tags. There is no penalty for such usage because in doing so, the person himself dilutes its importance.