In industrial environments, safety helmets, or hard hats, are essential for head protection against various hazards. These helmets are classified by impact type and electrical class, in accordance with ANSI Z89.1 standards.

There are two main impact types:

Type I helmets are designed to reduce the force of impact resulting from a blow only to the top of the head. [1]

Type II helmets are designed to reduce the force of impact resulting from a blow to the top or sides of the head. If a hazard assessment indicates that lateral impact to the head is foreseeable, employers must select Type II helmets for their employees. [1]

Helmets are also classified by electrical protection:

Class G (General) helmets are intended to reduce the danger of contact with low voltage conductors and are proof-tested at 2,200 volts (phase to ground). [1]

Class E (Electrical) helmets are intended to reduce the danger of contact with higher voltage conductors and are proof-tested at 20,000 volts (phase to ground). [1]

Class C (Conductive) helmets are not intended to provide protection against contact with electrical hazards. These helmets are usually made of aluminum, which conducts electricity. [1]

The employer must ensure that each employee wears a protective helmet when working in areas where there is a potential for injury to the head from falling objects or electrical shock. [3] [4] [5]

ANSI Z89.1 is the American National Standard for Industrial Head Protection, and employers must provide head protection that meets the specifications contained in the ANSI Z89.1 standards. [1] [2] [3] [4]