Removing every possible hazard from the work environment is not a practical proposition. However the number of severe injuries can be reduced by wearing the correct safety head gear and provide suitable safety equipment  An unnecessarily high number of serious head injuries occur each year purely down to not following a suitable hard hat safety policy.

 

Adherence to the laws on safety

 

Employers have a legal and moral obligation to understand and implement the appropriate safety laws. A failure to fulfill this role can lead to death and serious injuries, with the resulting heavy fines criminal proceedings and all round bad publicity that will result.

 

When should Protective Headgear be worn

 

Safety hats should be worn where there is a risk of falling debris and or collision with hard objects such as overhead beams or pipe work. Precaution should also be taken where electrical hazards present a danger. These rules should apply to everyone including site visitors.

 

Assessing the possible risk

 

A proper assessment should be taken at every site to decide on the level of head protection required; A Type I helmet is designed to offer protection from blows to the top of the head. A Type II helmet is designed to provide protection to the head from blows to the side and top. It may also be deemed necessary to have hats with integral features such as face visors or ear protectors.

 

Classes of electrical protection

 

Different types of helmets will provide different levels of protection against electrical shock. This can typically range from virtually no protection at all to protection up to 20,000 volts. You will need to be aware of the rules that apply in your own country and apply them accordingly.

 

Level of Durability

 

Any evidence of dullness or scratching should result in replacement of the helmet. If a helmet is struck by an object it should be replaced, even if no damage is apparent. In all cases helmets should be replaced after five years.

 

Safety Helmet Care

 

Helmets should not be modified with stickers or paint as this may compromise the safety of the helmet. Contact with solvents and chemicals should be avoided and hats should be stored away from direct sunlight. Hats should always be worn in the way intended with the peak pointing forward.