Hard hats and safety helmets (headgear) are essential pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) in construction, protecting against falling objects, impacts, and electrical exposures.1 Safety headgear come with various ratings and configurations to protect your head from these exposures.
Understanding the different ratings and configurations is essential, as using the right headgear can prevent serious injuries. Nearly a quarter of construction fatalities in a recent seven-year period were due to traumatic brain injuries. 2
What you can do
- Select the appropriate headgear: It is critical you select the appropriate headgear for the hazards that you are exposed. Select one that meets recognized standards and offers comprehensive protection and also meets the requirements of the jobsite. Check the label of your headgear to determine the ratings or talk to your Supervisor or Safety Manager if you are unsure
- Get the right fit: Adjust the suspension system inside the headgear to ensure a snug fit. It should sit comfortably on your head without being too tight
- Wear it consistently: Wear your headgear at all times when on a construction site or in any area where there is a risk of head injury.
- Buckle it: If your headgear comes with a chin strap, ensure it is buckled at all times while wearing.
- Educate others: Encourage your coworkers to wear their hard hats and explain the importance of doing so.
- Impact: If your headgear experiences significant impact or force, take it out of service even if there is no visible damage. Most headgear is designed for a single-use impact.
- Report hazards: If you notice any hazards that could cause head injuries, report them to your supervisor immediately.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect your headgear for cracks, dents, or any signs of damage. Replace it immediately if you find any defects.
- Cleanliness: Keep your headgear clean. Wash it with mild soap and water, and avoid using harsh chemicals that can weaken the material.
- Storage: Store your headgear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Types of Equipment
Hardhats vs. Safety Helmets
- Hardhats: Traditional style of head protection with a webbed ribbon-style suspension, a gap between the top of the head and the hardhat, and a brim. They may or may not have a chin strap. A drawback is that a hardhat without a chin strap can come off during a fall.
- Safety Helmets: Climbing style headgear that is more rounded and consistently has a chin strap, which helps ensure it stays on during a fall. They may have a foam liner or a combination of a webbed suspension and a foam liner.
ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type I vs. Type II Headgear
- Type I Headgear: Intended to reduce the force of collision from a blow only to the top of the head.
- Type II Headgear: Intended to reduce the force of collision from a blow to the top or sides of the head. Type II headgear automatically meets Type I protection standards and includes additional testing for impact energy and off-center penetration.
- Electrical Classifications: Both types of headgear can be purchased with various electrical ratings (e.g. Class G & E) based upon the voltages it can withstand
- Class C (Conductive): Not required to be tested for electrical insulation and is not intended to provide electrical protection.