Considering a new hard hat?

Several factors should be considered when it comes to selecting proper head protection. A recent Safety and Health Information Bulletin (SHIB) published by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) details various head protection options, including Type I and Type II helmets. The bulletin emphasizes that “employers should evaluate workplace hazards to determine the most suitable head protection for each specific situation.”
 

• It is crucial to ensure that all workers have a properly fitted hard hat. Comfort plays a significant role in encouraging workers to wear them, especially for long periods.
   
• When selecting a hard hat, ensure that it meets the CSA Z94.1-15 standard. When working in an industrial setting, additional protection may be needed or required, and it is important to choose the correct type of classification. Type I hard hats are tested for top-of-head impact and penetration, while Type II hard hats are tested for top and lateral impact and penetration.
   
• Additionally, hard hats are categorized into several class ratings for electrical protection: "G" for general protection, "E" for the highest electrical protection, and "C" for no electrical protection requirement. Understanding these standards and how they relate to your work environment is crucial to ensure that the hard hat you select provides the appropriate level and class of protection for your needs.
   
• When selecting a hard hat, it's crucial to consider whether it is vented or non-vented. A vented hard hat features small openings on the crown that facilitate airflow, which helps reduce heat buildup inside the hat. However, in environments where exposure to electrical risks or to chemicals or chemical sprays is possible, a vented hard hat may not be the best choice. The vents can allow chemicals to enter the shell and come into contact with the worker’s head and face. In these situations, a non-vented hard hat provides better protection.