The head is the most important part of the body and should be protected from injuries. Wearing a hard hat is the first line of defense for the head. It helps protect us from potential brain damage or other head injuries caused by falling or flying objects. A hard hat can also protect against electrical shock and burns. Hard hats are required at any jobsite where these risks are present.
What your employees need to know about hard hats
Hard hats work by combining a rigid outer shell with a suspension system (the adjustable, inner part). The shell deflects blows while the suspension system helps absorb the shock and spreads it across a wider area of the head, minimizing the force to the skull. To work correctly, the suspension system must be fit properly so that there is a space between the shell and the wearer’s head. This provides appropriate ventilation and will better withstand any impact.
Regular inspections are critical, as hard hats deteriorate over time. Hard hats stored in extreme heat or direct sunlight may wear out sooner or damage more quickly.
When a hard hat takes any type of hard impact, even if it remains intact, the suspension mechanism is compromised. The hard hat needs to be replaced when this happens.
What your employees need to do to use a hard hat safely
Only wear approved hard hats manufactured to meet required industry standards. For maximum protection, choose the hard hat most suitable for the work being performed. A hard hat that fits correctly will be the most comfortable and provide the best protection. Use a chinstrap if the hard hat comes with one, as this helps keep the hard hat from falling off.
When inspecting a hard hat, looking for damage is a good place to start. A quick test is to squeeze the sides of the hat and feel for any signs of damage. Does it make a snap or pop sound that would indicate part of it may be broken?
Hard hats need to be replaced if:
- There are dents, cracks, gouges, frays, or breaks in the straps or suspension
- If it’s more than four years old
- If it’s fading, chalky, or brittle
- If it’s suffered an impact
It’s also important to know that the suspension system might need to be replaced before the hard hat reaches its expiration date. It depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations and how often a person wears the hard hat. For example, when wearing a hard hat every day, the suspension will probably need to be replaced before the hat expires. But, if it’s only used a couple hours a week, then the suspension system should last as long as the hard hat.
Keeping the hard hat clean can help make it last longer. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning the hard hat with mild soap and warm water and letting it air dry. Never use solvents or any type of harsh chemicals because they can damage the shell and the suspension system.
