Why Hard Hats Safety Is Important

It is not feasible to eradicate all risks within the work place. It is possible, however, to ensure that workers are provided with appropriate protective head wear. Accident figures suggest that a disturbing number of people sustain head injuries while at work. Many of these injuries are avoidable and could be prevented if hard hat safety was observed.

Safety Laws

Employers face legal obligations to ensure a satisfactory standard of safety in the work place. Failure to comply with these could entail hefty fines. In the event of serious injury or death, negligent employers could face criminal prosecution. Many people would agree that employers have a moral responsibility to ensure the well being of employees.

Head Protection

There are specific circumstances that demand protective hats should be worn. If there is a possibility that objects may fall from above, or that workers could bump into them, then hats must be worn. If there is a risk of electrocution, from overhead cables for example, the appropriate headgear is an absolute necessity.

Work Place Safety

At every work site, a thorough risk assessment should be undertaken. This will determine the type of protective headwear required. A Type I helmet provides protection from blows to the top of the head. A Type II helmet will provide protection both from blows to the side and to the top of the head. Some hats also have the benefit of integral features such as ear defenders and face visors.

Electrical Currents

Protective helmets are also designated according to their ability to resist electric currents. Electrical class helmets, or class E as they are known, provide the greatest protection from electrical hazards. General class helmets, or class G, provide some limited protection against shocks. Hats in the conductive class,class C, provide little or no protection from electric currents.

Wear and Tear

All helmets are subject to eventual deterioration. It is advisable to replace helmets after five years. If there is any obvious sign of distress to the shell such as scratching, dullness or cracks, the helmet should be considered unsafe. If a helmet is struck by a hard object, it will have to be exchanged for a new one, even if no damage is apparent. If the helmet cannot be secured properly to the head because of damaged suspension, these parts should be replaced.

Care

Workers should avoid making any modifications to their hats as doing so may compromise performance. Similarly, they should avoid using paints, solvents or harsh chemicals on hats. Hats are best stored out of direct sunlight as UV exposure causes deterioration. The straps should never be pulled back over the peak of the helmet. They should always be worn with the peak facing forwards.

All personnel should be trained in hard hats safety if the work place demands it. The safety gear will prevent unnecessary injuries and could save lives. Employers are ultimately responsible for the welfare of employees in the work place.