Page 29 - OHS, June 2021

OSHA reports about 50,000 incidents each year involving workers being injured by falling objects such as tools and equipment.
and least bulky, whereas Type II helmets contain more padding. Make sure you’re using a safety helmet of the correct type for your application. If swinging objects are present at the jobsite or hazards may impact a worker from any angle other than straight
above, consider a Type II helmet.
Another feature to consider for your safety helmets is the
presence of a chin strap. As simple as it seems, a chin strap can save lives by keeping the helmet securely on during moments when a worker is most vulnerable, such as when bending over or
during a fall. Some hard hats come with chin straps as well. Importantly, a chin strap helps keep a worker’s head protection secure in case of a fall. Although properly worn personal fall protection equipment should arrest a worker’s fall in a stable and upright position, and proper fall clearance should be accounted for, improperly worn equipment or unforeseen obstructions could present a hazard. Having head protection securely fastened with a chin strap protects a fallen worker’s head from striking any nearby objects or surfaces if they somehow end up swinging or
tipping unexpectedly during fall arrest.
Chin straps also prevent workers from losing their helmets
when leaning over while working. A dislodged hard hat or helmet dropped from heights becomes a dangerous falling object itself. Securing your safety helmet with a chin strap can help prevent this dangerous irony.
Tool lanyards and safety helmets may seem unassuming, but these simple pieces of PPE prevent injuries and save lives. But PPE is only effective when it’s worn, which suggests it’s a good idea to get into the habit of using tool lanyards and safety helmets every time you work at a jobsite where falling objects are possible.
David Ivey oversees the product development of fall protection and safety equipment at Malta Dynamics.
Does Your Training Just Check the Box?
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