Hard hats are a vital piece of personal protective equipment for many workers. They help protect the head from impacts, falling objects, electrical shocks, and other on-the-job hazards. Not all hard hats are the same – there are different classifications that provide different levels and types of protection. Two of the most common classifications are Type 1 and Type 2 hard hats. Understanding the differences between these two types of hard hats is important for both employers and workers to ensure the right protective equipment is being used for the hazards present.
Standards for Hard Hats
Hard hats used in workplaces in the United States must meet safety standards established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and/or the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA). These standards help ensure hard hats provide adequate protection and durability. The ANSI Z89.1 standard covers the performance, testing, and classification of protective headwear.
Under this standard there are three types or classes of hard hats:
| Type | Intended Use |
|---|---|
| Type 1 | Top impact protection from blows to top of head caused by falling objects |
| Type 2 | Top impact protection plus protection from electrical hazards from contact up to 2,200 volts |
| Type 3 | Top impact protection plus protection from falling objects OR from electrical hazards up to 2,200 volts but not both |
Within these types are different classes that indicate the level of protection provided. Most common are Class G (general – low voltage electrical protection), Class E (electrical – high voltage electrical protection), and Class C (conductive – no electrical protection). Hard hats may also meet additional standards for things like high visibility requirements.
Type 1 Hard Hats
Type 1 hard hats are intended to provide protection from blows or impacts to the top of the head caused by falling objects. They have a full brim and usually have a 6-point suspension system inside that helps absorb and distribute energy from blows. The shell of Type 1 hard hats is made from rigid materials like high-density polyethylene, fiberglass, or thermoplastic. Type 1 hard hats typically do not provide any electrical protection.
Type 1 hard hats are designed for general use in a variety of construction, manufacturing, and industrial work environments where protection is needed from impact injuries. Some key characteristics and uses of Type 1 hard hats include:
- Protect from falling objects like tools, beams, rocks, debris
- Protect from bumps from fixed objects like pipes, machinery, scaffolding
- Commonly worn during building construction, demolition, logging, factories
- Provide impact protection but no voltage protection
- Weigh between 8-16 ounces for comfort during long wear
- Made in a variety of colors and with logos/text for customization
- May have additional accessories like winter liners, face shields, ratchet adjustments
Type 1 hard hats meet the ANSI Z89.1 standard for Class G head protection. They are intended for general use where electrical hazards are not present.
Type 2 Hard Hats
Type 2 hard hats provide the same impact protection on top of the head that Type 1 hats provide. Additionally, they are intended to reduce the danger of exposure to low-voltage conductors. Type 2 hard hats provide protection from electrical hazards when contact is made with voltages up to 2,200 volts.
Type 2 hard hats have a dielectric design that provides electrical insulation if contact is made with a live wire. The shell prevents electrical current from flowing to ground and offers protection from electrocution. Key features and uses of Type 2 hard hats include:
- Protect from falling objects and bumps to head
- Electrical shock protection up to 2,200 volts
- Worn for overhead power line work, utility work, electricians
- Made with insulating materials that do not conduct electricity
- Weigh slightly more due to dielectric components
- Meet ANSI Z89.1 standards for Class E and G head protection
- May have accessories like face shields, lamps, chinstraps
Type 2 hard hats are essential PPE for any environment where contact with energized conductors or components is possible. They provide life-saving protection against electrocution when working around electricity. However, they do not provide protection from explosions or corrosive chemicals.
Choosing Between Type 1 and 2 Hard Hats
So when should you use Type 1 versus Type 2 hard hats? Consider the following factors:
- Electrical hazards – If workers are exposed to overhead power lines, open bus bars, or you cannot eliminate contact with energized parts, Type 2 hard hats are needed.
- Work being done – Type 2 hats are most commonly worn by electricians, utility crews, and jobs working on or near live power sources.
- Work environment – Type 1 hats are suitable for construction sites, shops, factories, and general industry where electrocution hazards are not present.
- employer safety policies – Many companies mandate Type 2 hard hats for all work unless an area is deemed free of electrical hazards.
Keep in mind that Type 2 hard hats cost more than Type 1 versions due to the specialized materials. But Type 2 hats provide critical, lifesaving electrical protection. A hazard assessment should determine if the extra cost is warranted. Proper use and maintenance is also key to ensure hard hats retain their protective abilities.
Conclusion
Hard hats protect some of the most vulnerable parts of the body from workplace injuries. Understanding the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 varieties helps select the appropriate protection. Type 1 hard hats are designed for general use and provide impact protection from blows to the head. Type 2 hard hats offer electrical protection by insulating against contact with live conductors up to 2,200 volts in addition to impact protection. Employers must assess hazards and require the proper class and type of hard hat for each work area. Proper use and care of hard hats ensures they remain effective at preventing traumatic brain injuries and electrocutions. With the right protective headwear, workers in countless occupations can stay safe from overhead and electrical dangers.
