Protecting employees from potential head injuries is a key element of any safety program. A head injury can impair an employee for life or it can be fatal. Wearing a safety helmet or hard hat is one
of the easiest ways to protect an employee's head from injury. Hard hats can protect employees from impact and penetration hazards as well as from electrical shock and burn hazards.

In general, protective helmets or hard hats should do the following:

Hard hats must have a hard outer shell and a shock-absorbing lining that incorporates a headband and straps that suspend the shell from 1 to 1 1/4 inches (2.54 cm to 3.18 cm) away from the head. Protective headgear must meet ANSI Standard Z89.1-1986 (Protective Headgear for Industrial Workers) or provide an equivalent level of protection.

Head protection that is either too large or too small is inappropriate for use, even if it meets all other requirements. Periodic cleaning and inspection will extend the useful life of protective headgear.
A daily inspection of the hard hat shell, suspension system and other accessories for holes, cracks, tears or other damage that might compromise the protective value of the hat is essential.

Always replace a hard hat if it sustains an impact, even if damage is not noticeable.

Following these simple rules and procedures will greatly improve your health and safety on the job.

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