Head Protection

Head Protection

Protective hats for head protection against impact blows must be able to withstand penetration and absorb the shock of a blow. In some cases, hats should also protect against electric shock.

Each type and class of head protector is intended to provide protection against specific hazardous conditions

One should be able to identify easily the type or class of helmet by checking the inside of the shell for the manufacturer, ANSI designation and class.

Protective hats / helmets are made in the types and classes below:
• Type 1 – helmets with full brim, not less than 1 and 1/4 inches wide;
• Type 2 – brimless helmets with a peak extending forward from the crown.

For industrial purposes, three classes are recognized:
• Class A – general service, limited voltage protection;
• Class B – utility service, high-voltage protection; and
• Class C – special service, no voltage protection.

Class A is intended for protection against impact hazards. They are used in mining, construction, shipbuilding, tunneling, lumbering, and manufacturing.
Class B utility service hats and caps protect the wearer’s head from impact and penetration by falling or flying objects and from high-voltage shock and burn. They are used extensively by electrical workers.

The safety hat or cap in Class C is designed specifically for lightweight comfort and impact protection. This class is usually manufactured from aluminum and offers no dielectric protection. Class C helmets are used in certain construction and manufacturing occupations, oil fields, refineries, and chemical plants where there is no danger from electrical hazards or corrosion. They also are used on occasions where there is a possibility of bumping the head against a fixed object.