11 AUGUST 2021 WorldWide Drilling Resource® The Difference Between Safety Helmets and Hard Hats by Nicole Baker, Sales and Customer Training Manager, HexArmor® Head protection is a big deal on the job, but when given two choices - a safety helmet or a hard hat - what should you reach for? Hard hats are more commonly known to workers and have been around for over 40 years. Over the past four or five years, the traditional design has transitioned to a safety helmet. This is good news as the safety helmet brings much-needed upgrades - including better protection and fit - to one of the most used PPE (personal protective equipment) pieces on the job. The concept behind this kind of head protection isn’t new; it’s been around for years in the sporting world. In fact, the same protection methods used in mountain climbing, biking, and other sports have been worked into the safety helmet design, with some featuring better side impact protection and a more secure and ergonomic fit for the wearer’s head. These upgrades offer better functionality and comfort for head protection used on the job just like it does for sport-lovers and athletes. How to select the proper safety helmet. First, remember, the purpose of head protection in any safety program is to mitigate and/or eliminate hazards and exposure to injury while on the job. Being at risk for a head injury is dependent on your work environment and its associated hazards. Oftentimes, workers must wear protection even when there is no apparent sign of danger. So, when choosing your head protection, take time to understand exactly what you need. Start by referencing OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations for your industry to understand the type of head protection required. Is work being done at extreme temperatures, around electrical hazards, or at-height? These answers will point you in the right direction. Lastly, ensure the head protection you choose meets the ANSI Z89.1 standard for OSHA compliance. Additional factors should also be considered. The suspension system is a critical piece of the safety helmet; does the safety helmet fit properly and feel comfortable? Do you require use of accessories, such as hearing protection, face shields, or respiratory equipment? If so, make sure they are compatible with the safety helmet. Depending on the manufacturer, you can find protective options with new and improved technology to help increase performance and comfort on the job, such as a 6-point suspension system, permanent antifog face shields, and memory foam earmuffs. Any further questions regarding how to properly select the right safety helmet for you can be answered by a safety helmet manufacturer who is experienced in helping companies find their ideal safety solution. Editor’s Note: A special thank-you to Nicole Baker who is a QSSP (Qualified Safety Sales Professional) - OSHA 30 certified. C&G Hello, I use this subscription to help gain knowledge of the industry and I give older copies of the subscription to students to do projects. Sarah Goodman Museum Educator Drake Well Museum and Park Titusville, PA
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