Head protection is one of the most important pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) you can wear on the job. It reduces the risk of head injuries from falling or flying objects and from electric shock and burns. Depending on the industry and potential hazards, head protection may be in the form of traditional hard hats, safety helmets or bump caps.

The head protection standard for industrial protective headgear defines three different levels of head protection based on the type and severity of impact they can withstand. All head protection must provide some level of protection against a direct blow to the top of the head. This is accomplished by a hard shell, a suspension and some type of impact energy absorption mechanism inside the shell working together.

While struck-by incidents occur frequently in construction, workers in many other industries may be exposed to similar hazards. For example, workers in confined spaces or near energized equipment are at risk for head injury due to falling small tools and materials. A hard hat that is comfortable enough to be worn throughout the workday can help reduce this risk.

Top 5 Helmets for Maximum Head Protection in High-Risk Jobs

This SHIB explores advancements in the design and capabilities of modern safety helmets and hard hats. It outlines the differences between them and provides tips for properly inspecting and storing head protection to ensure it remains in good condition for use. The article also addresses the importance of ensuring that all accessories, including face shields and hearing protectors, are compatible with the head protection you choose and do not compromise its original degree of protective capability.