Types of Hardhats
Hard hats are personal protective devices designed to reduce the risk of head injuries. They protect workers from falling objects, lateral impacts and electrical shock. Employees will find several different types of hard hats to choose from depending on their needs and the risks they face on the job.
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Regulations
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Most organizations, including OSHA, rely on hard hat standards developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). ANSI Standard Z89.1 defines the various types of hard hats and describes the testing and performance characteristics of each type. This standard was created in 1986, then revised in 1997 and 2009, though only minor changes were made by these revisions.
Type A
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Under ANSI Z89.1, a Type A hardhat is one that is designed for general use. It will protect the wearer from falling objects from above, but is not designed to withstand impacts from lateral collisions. This type of hardhat is also rated to protect against an electric shock up to 2,200 volts. The 1997 version of this standard changed the Type A designation to Type G, though some hardhats may still be sold under the Type A label.
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Type B
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Type B hardhats protect against falling objects as well as those thrown laterally. This type of hat also protects against electric shocks up to 20,000 volts. The 1997 revision to Z89.1 changed the designation of this hat to Type E, though it may be sold under either label.
Type C
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A Type C hardhat is the most basic model listed in the ANSI standards. It will known as a conductive hardhat, which means it offers no protection from electrical shock. This hat does protect against falling objects, but is not designed to protect against corrosion. The Type C designation was not changed by the 1997 revision.
Styles
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There are two basic styles of hardhat available. A Type I unit has a full brim, and may include rounded bucket hats or those designed to look like cowboy hats. Type II hardhats either have no brim at all or have only a small bill, similar to a baseball cap. All hardhats are designed to be worn in one specific way unless they have an double arrow symbol on the inside. This symbol indicates that the hat can be safely worn either forwards or backwards.
Materials
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Several different types of materials are used to make hardhats. Aluminum is popular for its strength and durability, as well as its ability to withstand high levels of heat. Because it is made of metal, an aluminum hat offers no protection against electric shock. Low density polyethylene (LDPE) is used to make bump caps, which are used to protect the head from minor bumps and abrasions in light manufacturing facilities. High density polyethylene (HDPE) is the primary material used to make all other types of hardhats. HDPE has a high strength to weight ratio and is a non-conductor of electricity.
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References
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