For more than a century, hard hats have been the gold standard in head protection to keep construction workers free from head injuries (or worse) on the jobsite. Originally designed to resist impact from falling objects, hard hats can only go so far when protecting workers from the multitude of hazards they face today.
In fact, on today’s jobsites, workers falling from heights to a lower level is more of a concern than falling objects, according to OSHA. In 2020, there were 351 deadly falls, making up approximately 35% of all 1,008 construction deaths. As a small business owner, it’s your responsibility to keep all of your employees safe whether they’re working at heights or on the ground.
To meet the demand for greater head protection, the ANSI-Certified Type II safety helmet is becoming the PPE of choice for industrial and contracting businesses across the country. This type of safety helmet has its roots in helmets designed for extreme sports and features a four-point chin strap intended to keep the helmet in place in the event of a fall. Let’s take a closer look so that you can determine if the ANSI Type II safety helmet is the right choice for your crew.
ANSI-Certified Type II Safety Helmets: What Sets Them Apart from General Hard Hats?
You may be wondering what makes this new head PPE so great and whether it’s worth the investment. That’s fair. First, ANSI-Certified Type II helmets are equipped with 360° of head protection, which can protect your workers’ heads from front, top, side, and rear impacts. As mentioned before, traditional hard hats were designed primarily to protect the wearer from falling objects and are therefore not equipped to absorb shock from multiple directions.
Second, ANSI-Certified Type II helmets feature a four-point, adjustable chin strap that secures the helmet to the wearer throughout their work activities and in adverse conditions such as high winds. Ensuring your workers’ head protection stays on while working at heights reduces the probability of them suffering a life-changing or life-threatening head injury on the job.
Some models also feature:
- Replaceable helmet padding systems.
- Integrated chips that can provide life-saving information in the event of an accident (including identification, health history, and emergency contact information).
- Front and rear brims to deflect precipitation.
Why ANSI-Certified Type II Safety Helmets May Be Worth the Investment for Your Business
In general, these ANSI Type II helmets require more of an upfront cost than general hard hats. If the Type II’s innovative, shock-absorbing design and stabilizing chin strap aren’t compelling enough reasons to make the switch, let’s look at some additional factors.
ANSI-certified Type II safety helmets can also contribute to:
- Reduced PPE turnover due to Type II’s higher quality of construction.
- Fewer workers’ compensation claims due to fewer injuries.
- Enhanced workplace morale. Employees thrive in environments where they’re genuinely appreciated and cared for.
- Enhanced productivity on the job.
- Fewer preventable head injuries.
Zoro has you covered for all the personal protective equipment your small business needs. Whether the ANSI-certified Type II safety helmet is the right choice for your crew or traditional hard hats are still your best option, Zoro.com is here for all your safety needs.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.