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Head Protection Basics: Hard Hats and Helmets
August 20, 2025 Madison Hemric

Head Protection Basics: Hard Hats and Helmets

OSHA Standard 1926.100 states: “Employees working in areas where there is a possible danger of head injury from impact, or from falling or flying objects, or from electrical shock and burns, shall be protected by protective helmets.” These risks are of great concern as head injuries can be very dangerous both in short and long term contexts. 

Hard hats and helmets are offered in three broad categories; cap style hard hats, full brim hard hats, and climbing style helmets. Each of these fall into various classes and types based on ANSI standards. Following this standard in your hard hat selection will ensure proper compliance with OSHA’s expectations. 

Classes: Hard hat classes distinguish the level of protection against electrical hazards and include Classes G, E, and C. 

Class G - “General” classification for hard hats with limited electrical protection (up to 2,200 volts) for contexts where minor electrical hazards are present. 

Class E - “Electrical” classification for hard hats and helmets that provide protection for up to 20,000 volts. 

Class C - “Conductive” classification for hard hats that provide no protection against electrical conductors and should not be used in any setting where electrical hazards may be present. Note: When reviewing the available hats on the market, you will find that all vented hats are Class C as they will not provide protection against arc risks.

Types: Hard hats and helmets are designated as Type 1 or Type 2 based on the impact hazards they protect against. 

Type 1 hard hats protect against blows and objects coming from above. 

Type 2 hard hats protect against lateral blows as well as those at the top of the head. 

Design:

Climbing helmets are relatively new on the larger PPE scene, and we are seeing a variety of options come on the market for this niche as they are very effective in the right context. However, we know that in every setting it is important to consider: 

  1. what option will provide the greatest protection for the worker.

  2. what option will be worn consistently and correctly by the worker.

Climbing helmets must have the chin strap fastened in order to meet safety standards, and cap and full brim style hard hats must be fitted appropriately using the suspension in the hat. 

In outdoor settings where there is limited work at heights, full brim hats which provide additional protection from the sun may be preferred. However, some may find that a lighter option, such as the cap style or climbing helmet, makes more sense for their work. With accessories for all hats to help manage high heat hazards and to add hearing or face protection, each choice can be customized to the setting in which it must operate.

The big picture for head protection boils down to two big questions: Are electrical hazards present? and What kind of impact risks will occur? As you venture to select the safest option for your crew, we are always happy to help and ready to dive deeper into any questions you may have. Feel free to reach out to us at 919-602-2503 or marketing@safetypackonline.com with any questions about hard hats, helmets, or any other facet of your safety plan.

 

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