OSHA Switching from Hard Hats to Safety Helmets

WASHINGTON -- OSHA recently announced plans to require its personnel to switch from hard hats to safety helmets.
 
OSHA has also updated its recommended uses for safety helmets, which now includes construction sites, the oil and gas industry, electrical work, working from heights, high-temp environments, specialized work environments, specific regulatory environments, and low-risk environments. 

Workplace safety equipment, including head protection, has evolved over the years. As industries strive to enhance worker safety and reduce the risks of head injuries, more advanced and protective modern head protection, safety helmets, are replacing traditional hard hats.

An OSHA Safety and Health Information Bulletin (SHIB) dated Nov. 22, 2023 presents the key differences between safety helmets and traditional hard hats, describing the advancements in design, materials, and protective features that help to protect the worker’s entire head.

This SHIB also provides instructions for properly inspecting and storing head protection, whether it be a safety helmet or a traditional hard hat. With a thorough understanding of the benefits and capabilities of head protection options, employers and workers can make informed decisions on which to use.

The significance of head protection in hazardous work environments cannot be overstated. For decades, traditional hard hats have been the go-to choice for protecting workers' heads. Made of rigid materials like high-density polyethylene, traditional hard hats provide a basic level of protection.

However, as technology and scientific understanding of head injuries have advanced, safety helmets provide further improvements to enhance worker safety and reduce the risk of severe head trauma.

One of the differences between traditional hard hats and safety helmets lies in their construction materials. While hard hats are made of hard plastics, safety helmets incorporate a combination of materials, including lightweight composites, fiberglass, and advanced thermoplastics.

These materials not only enhance impact resistance but also reduce the overall weight of the
helmet, reducing neck strain and improving comfort during extended use. In addition, all safety helmets include a chin strap that, when worn properly, maintains the position of the safety helmet in the event of a slip, trip, or fall.

Moreover, safety helmets can incorporate an array of additional features designed to address specific
workplace risks. Many models include add-on face shields or goggles to protect against projectiles, dust, and  chemical splashes.

They may also have built-in hearing protection and communication systems to facilitate clear
communication in noisy environments, enabling workers to stay connected and safe. However, head protection with integrated technology may not be suitable for some workplaces.

Employers should evaluate workplace hazards to determine the most appropriate head protection for each situation. If head protection is needed for the job, employers should consider investing in better head protection with safety helmets to better protect their workers.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, head injuries accounted for 5.8% of nonfatal occupational injuries involving days away from work.

Determining when to use a safety helmet on the job
Employers must conduct a hazard assessment at their job sites and based on the workplace hazards determine whether head protection is necessary. When head protection is needed, employers should consider using safety helmets instead of traditional hard hats so that employees are best protected against occupational head injuries.

Recommended Uses for Safety Helmets
1. Construction Sites: For construction sites, especially those with high risks of falling objects and debris,
impacts from equipment, or slips, trips, and falls, safety helmets have enhanced impact resistance and
additional features that offer superior protection compared to the components and construction of
traditional hard hats.

2. Oil and Gas Industry: In these sectors where workers face multiple hazards, including potential
exposure to chemicals and severe impacts, safety helmets with additional features can provide
comprehensive protection.

3. Working from Heights: For tasks or jobs that involve working from heights, safety helmets offer
protection of the entire head and include features that prevent the safety helmet from falling off.

4. Electrical Work: For tasks involving electrical work or proximity to electrical hazards, safety helmets
with non-conductive materials (Class G and Class E) provide protection to prevent electrical shocks.
However, some traditional hard hats also offer electrical protection.

5. High-Temperature Environments: In high temperatures or where there is exposure to molten materials,
safety helmets with advanced heat resistant properties can provide additional protection to workers.

6. Specialized Work Environments: Jobs that require integrated face shields, hearing protection or
communication devices benefit from safety helmets designed with these features or the ability to add
them on.

7. Specific Regulatory Requirements: Where safety helmets are mandated by regulations or industry
standards, employers must comply with these requirements to ensure worker safety compliance.

8. Low-Risk Environments: Even in settings with no overhead hazards, safety helmets will provide
comprehensive protection, especially if the risks can become more severe.

Properly storing head protection is crucial to maintain its structural integrity and to prevent damage, ensuring it functions effectively when needed.

Inspecting head protection, such as safety helmets, before each use helps OSHA identify signs of wear, damage, or expiration, ensuring that they are in optimal condition and can provide the
necessary protection to reduce the likelihood of head injuries.

Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for care, use, and storage.

How to properly care for your head protection:
1. Clean and Dry Head Protection Before Storing: After each use, clean the exterior of your head protect
ion with mild soap and water. Ensure there is no dirt, debris, or chemicals that could compromise the
head protection’s structural integrity. Once cleaned, allow the head protection to air-dry in a cool, dry
place. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or corrosive substances during storage.
Do not store your head protection in your car, where it may be exposed to extreme temperatures.

2. Inspect Shell and Suspension System: Before using your head protection, carefully inspect the outer shell for cracks, dents, or other signs of damage. Run your fingers over the surface to check for any
irregularities. Similarly, examine the suspension system (headband and chin strap) for wear and tear,
ensuring it is securely attached to the shell and free from any signs of damage.

3. Check for Labels and Certification Marks: Look for labels and certification marks inside the head
protection. These indicate that the head protection meets the necessary safety standards and
requirements. Check that the labels are legible and not tampered with.

4. Verify Date of Manufacture: Locate the date of manufacture on the head protection, typically imprinted
on the inside. Head protection has a limited lifespan and using expired head protection may compromise
its protective capabilities. Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for the recommended lifespan of your
specific head protection model.

5. Examine Accessories and Attachments: If your head protection has additional accessories or
attachments, such as face shields, goggles, or earmuffs, inspect them for damage or signs of wear. Make
sure they are securely fastened to the head protection and functioning correctly.

6. Check for Proper Fit: Before using head protection, ensure it fits comfortably and securely on your head. Adjust the suspension system to achieve a snug fit without excessive pressure points. Head protection should not be too loose or too tight.

7. Evaluate for Damaged or Loose Parts: While wearing the head protection, gently shake your head to
check for any loose or rattling components. If you notice anything unusual or suspect any damaged
parts, refrain from using the head protection and have it inspected by a qualified person.

8. Inspect Interior Cushioning: Some head protection features additional cushioning or padding inside for
extra comfort and impact absorption. Inspect this interior padding for wear or compression. If it shows
signs of deterioration, contact the manufacturer for replacement options.

9. Assess Previous Impact Damage: If your head protection has experienced an impact or has been
subjected to a significant force, retire it immediately, even if no visible damage is evident. Head
protection is designed for single-use impact protection and may not retain its full effectiveness after an
incident.

10. Keep Records: Maintain a record of each inspection, noting the date, any findings, and actions taken.
Regularly document the date of purchase and any relevant information about the head protection to
track its lifespan accurately. This is recommended for all personal protective equipment

For more, go to osha.gov.