OSHA Upgrades Employee Head Protection with Modern Safety Helmets

OSHA Upgrades Employee Head Protection with Modern Safety Helmets

Until recently, the agency relied primarily on traditional hard hats.

  • By Robert Yaniz Jr.
  • Dec 13, 2023

OSHA is enhancing the head protection for its employees by transitioning from traditional hard hats to advanced safety helmets during inspections. This follows a Bureau of Labor Statistics report that head injuries accounted for nearly 6 percent of non-fatal job-related injuries in 2020.

According to a release dated Dec. 11, the outdated design of traditional hard hats influenced the decision to switch. While a longtime staple in head protection, hard hats offer limited protection mainly to the top of the head and easily fall off during slips or trips due to the absence of chin straps. The design also traps heat, which can lead to discomfort among workers.

On Nov. 22, 2023, OSHA released a bulletin highlighting the improved features of modern safety helmets, which include enhanced side impact protection, integration of chin straps, ventilation, face shields and communication systems. These helmets are designed to provide comprehensive head protection and can include additional safeguards like hearing protection.

OSHA recommends companies across industries such as construction and oil and gas adopt these safety helmets since these employees face a high risk of head injuries. The updated helmets are also advised for specialized high-temperature work environments, electrical work, tasks performed at heights, and situations where regulations mandate enhanced head protection.

About the Author

Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

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