Hard hats are a crucial piece of personal protective equipment for many workers. There are different types of hard hats designed for specific work environments and safety needs. Knowing the options available and selecting the proper hard hat for the job is an important part of maintaining worker health and safety.
What are the basic parts of a hard hat?
While styles may vary, most hard hats share some common components:
- Shell: The rigid outer covering that protects from impact.
- Suspension system: The harness inside the shell that cushions and absorbs shock.
- Brim: Provides shade from the sun and protection from falling debris.
- Chinstrap: Adjustable strap to secure the hard hat in place.
The materials used in each component can affect the overall performance and durability of the hard hat. Most quality hard hats use impact-resistant plastic for the shell, shock-absorbing foam or webbing for suspension, and leather or fabric chinstraps.
What are the different types of hard hats?
There are many styles of hard hats, but they generally fall into four main categories:
Type I – Full brim
Type I hard hats have a full brim encircling the entire hat. This provides excellent protection from falling objects and debris as well as shade from the sun. Type I hats are the most common general-purpose hard hat used in construction, manufacturing, and other industrial settings.
Type II – Front brim only
Type II hats have a shortened brim in the front only. This allows for tilting the hat backward to improve overhead visibility without fully removing the hat. The lack of rear brim protection makes them less suitable for high-risk overhead work.
Type III – No brim
Type III hard hats have no brim encircling the shell. This open design provides the greatest upward and sideward visibility. However, the lack of a brim leaves workers more exposed to falling objects and sun exposure.
Type IV – Chin splash impact protection
Type IV hard hats add a rolled brim encircling the front to protect against splash and impact hazards to the face and chin. This style is commonly seen in mining and other industrial work with liquid contaminants.
What materials are used in hard hat shells?
The materials used to construct the hard hat shell also vary based on the intended work environment. Common materials include:
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE): HDPE is a lightweight, durable plastic that resists impact. It protects well against bumps and blows.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass shells provide high strength and impact protection but are less resistant to extreme temperatures. They are more likely to become brittle over time.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is lightweight and able to reflect heat, but less shock absorbent. Best for jobs with heat exposure rather than high impact risks.
- Combination: Some hats use a mix of materials, like HDPE coated in fiberglass for added durability.
How do suspension systems differ?
The suspension refers to the webbing and harness inside the hard hat that cushions and supports the shell above the head. Suspensions vary in their use of support bands and type of lining:
- Standard headband suspensions: A simple headband crown provides basic shock absorption and fitting.
- Full suspensions: Multiple cross bands or a full cradle improve comfort and stability for all-day wear.
- Ratchet suspensions: An adjustable ratchet or pinlock system allows custom sizing the suspension for a secure fit.
- Plastic/vinyl linings: Smooth vinyl makes for easy cleaning and durability.
- Fabric linings: Comfort padding like leather and mesh increase comfort and sweat absorption.
The right suspension system helps properly balance comfort, protection, and staying power throughout the work shift.
What are the key safety ratings and certifications?
To ensure proper protective performance, OSHA requires hard hats comply with established industry safety standards. Key ratings and features to look for include:
- ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 certification: Verifies impact and penetration resistance meets or exceeds standards for work helmets.
- ANSI Class G (general) or E (electrical): Class E offers dielectric protection against electric shock. Class G does not.
- Additional ANSI Class C (conductive) or D (firefighter): Meets extra requirements for conductive or extreme heat environments.
- Accessory slots: Allow adding ear muffs, face shields and other accessories.
- Reflective stickers: Increase visibility and safety around vehicles and equipment.
Checking for up-to-date safety certifications ensures your headgear is built to properly protect against on-the-job hazards.
What are the key considerations in selecting a hard hat?
Choosing the right hard hat depends on your work environment, job hazards, and personal factors. Key points to consider include:
- Overhead hazards: Jobs with risks of falling objects require Type I full brim for the most coverage.
- Vision needs: Tasks requiring upward or side visibility are better served by Type II or III hard hats.
- Electrical exposure: Any chance of contact with live wires calls for ANSI Class E compliant insulation.
- Heat/cold: Select shell materials that won’t get brittle in cold or amplify heat exposure.
- All day wear: A comfortable, adjustable suspension system is critical for long shifts.
- Use of accessories: If you’ll add ear muffs or a face shield, ensure your hard hat has compatible slots and fittings.
Consulting safety experts can help assess your work hazards and hard hat needs. Proper fit and wearing instructions should also be followed.
What are common hard hat accessories?
Many accessories are available to adapt hard hats for specialized safety needs:
- Earmuffs and earplugs: Protect hearing from hazardous noise levels.
- Face shields: Provide a clear barrier protecting eyes and face.
- Cap lamps: Illuminate work areas when needed.
- Logo decals: Promote company branding and team identity.
- Neck shades: Prevent sunburn and glare off hard hat brims.
- Winter liners: Add warmth in cold conditions.
- Ventilation fans: Cool air circulation for hot environments.
Accessories should be ANSI rated and compatible with your hard hat model. Proper installation and positioning are important to not impede the hat’s safety functions.
When should hard hats be replaced?
Hard hats should be replaced according to the following guidelines:
- After a significant impact that could compromise the shell integrity.
- If the shell shows signs of dents, cracks, perforation or deformity.
- When the suspension’s stretch, stiffness, or shock absorption is compromised.
- If the shell or suspension show signs of chemical damage or degradation.
- When excess soiling or paint buildup prevents proper inspection.
- At least every 5 years from the manufactured date as materials degrade over time.
Replacements should also meet current ANSI standards at the time of replacement. Follow manufacturer guidelines for expected service life under normal use conditions.
What are proper practices for using and caring for hard hats?
To maintain performance and durability, follow these usage and care recommendations:
- Inspect for signs of damage before each use.
- Clean regularly with mild soap and water only.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like solvents that can weaken materials.
- Allow to fully dry after cleaning before storing.
- Keep out of direct sunlight and freezing temperatures when not in use.
- Avoid painting or applying unauthorized decals over shell as they can hide cracks or compromise integrity.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from tools and equipment to prevent accidental damage.
Proper DONNING instructions include chin strap snug but comfortable, brim facing forward, and allowing clearance for accessories and neck movement. DOFFING correctly is straight up without pushing brim backwards.
Conclusion
Hard hats protect what’s most important – your head and brain functioning. While they may all look similar, the subtle differences in types, materials, and ratings actually make each hat suited to specific environments and safety needs. Taking the time to properly select, use, and care for your hard hat ensures you get the right protection for the job at hand.
