Page 46 - OHS, February/March 2025

H E A D P R O T E C T I O N
may also be benefi cial to understand how European standards for
impact and penetration testing compare to those for the United
States.
EN397 testing requirements are similar to those for ANSI Type
I. It is focused on top-impact ONLY for industrial use.
EN12492 testing requirements provide a slightly larger top-
impact zone for mountaineering and climbing helmets. While
EN12492 helmets provide additional top impact protection when
compared to ANSI Type I hard hats, the standard is NOT equiva-
lent to ANSI Type II, as it does not provide the same lateral pro-
tection that a Type II helmet provides. Only Type II helmets are
certifi ed for lateral protection.
OSHA’s Safety Helmets Bulletin
OSHA released an updated version of its “Head Protection: Safety
Helmets in the Workplace”2 Safety and Health Information Bulletin
(SHIB) in April 2024, stating, “With a thorough understanding of
the benefi ts and capabilities of head protection options, employers
and workers can make informed decisions on selection and use.”
OSHA recognizes two Types (impact) and three Classes (elec-
trical) of head protection:
■ Type I head protection off ering protection from impacts to
the top of the head.
■ Type II head protection off ering protection from impacts to
the top and sides of the head
■ Class G (General) head protection designed to help reduce
exposure to low voltage conductors and proof tested at 2,200 volts
(phase to ground).
■ Class E (Electrical) head protection designed to help reduce
exposure to higher voltage conductors and proof tested at 20,000
volts (phase to ground).
■ Class C (Conductive) head protection not intended to pro-
vide protection against contact with electrical hazards.
According to the SHIB, accessories (chinstraps, face shields, eye
protection, and hearing protection) may also be considered as op-
tions to help address specifi c jobsite and application hazards and
concerns.
Hazard Assessments for Your Jobsite and Application
In the SHIB, OSHA notes that “modern head protection, whether
it’s a safety helmet or a hard hat, varies in styles and levels of pro-
tection, allowing employers and workers to choose head protection
appropriate for the job.”2 OSHA continues that “Employers must
conduct a hazard assessment at their job site and based on the
workplace hazards, determine whether head protection is neces-
sary and, if so, the most appropriate type.”2
When conducting a hazard assessment, employers oft en con-
sider the following factors:
■ Previous records of head injuries or near misses
■ Impact and other risks, including falling objects, hitting or
has Lockout/Tagout
training and services to meet
your needs
We can
• Write procedures for specific equipment
• Develop a site specific Control of
Hazardous Energy policy
• Provide employee training
• Audit current
strategies
When it comes
to hazardous energy
do your employees
have the LOCK on safety?
44 Occupational Health & Safety | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2025 www.ohsonline.com