Protective Hard Hats | Harmony Lab & Safety Supplies

Portwest

SKU: PS53

Portwest PS53 Height Endurance Hard Hat, 5 Color Options, ea

$28.99

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Hard Hats

The principle behind common sense head protection has not changed since the 19th century. However, the material technology has. First, Bullard sold leather hard hats that failed to provide protection from falling debris. Shipbuilders would cover their hard hats with tar and leave them in the sun to bake to create a firm surface. Still, the baked tar film on top of the leather was not enough to protect from debris. Metal replaced leather, and construction at the Hoover Damn began with a Six Company Inc. mandate requiring hard hats. But by 1938 the first durable plastic hard hats were created to protect workers from electrical shock. The thermoplastics of the 1950s provided protection of up to 10,000 volts. After the invention of plastics, hard hats haven't changed much in form or function. The same regulations set in the 1970s still apply today, with tweaks. The same principle applies: fit the protection to your application.

What are hard hats and why are they important?

Hard hats are a type of personal protective equipment (PPE) worn on the job to protect the head from injuries due to falling objects, impacts, electrical shock, and other hazards. They are essential in many industries, such as construction, mining, and manufacturing.

OSHA Regulation 1915.155(a)(1) mandates using hard hats when employees may encounter falling debris. In this case, a 1979 statute says that construction workers can use a Class C Hard Hat even though it may not protect from electrical shock (Standard Number 1926.100. There haven't been many updates to the hard hat regulations since the 1970s.

A recent change came in 2004 in which OSHA assured employers that Hard Hats are not required "when there is no exposure to head injury." No kidding. But a more mindful regulation came in 2009 when OSHA added testing for reverse donning, cold weather hard hats, and high visibility.

What are the different types of hard hats?

There are two primary types of hard hats – Type I and Type II (ANSI Z89.1-1986). Type I hard hats are designed to protect the top of the head. Type II hard hats offer protection from top and lateral impacts.

Type 1 - Full Brim that encircles the hard hat.
Type 2 - No encircling brim with an optional front brim.

Each type comes in classes (G, E, and C) based on their level of electrical protection as defined in ANSI Z89.1-1986:

Class E - Electrical. Tested Against 20,000 Volts.
Class G - General. Tested Against 2,200 Volts.
Class C - Conductive. No dielectric protection.

How often should hard hats be replaced?

High-density polyethylene hard hats are durable. Still, manufacturers must put an expiration date somewhere on the cap, sometimes in embossed lettering. Cracks, dents, and brittleness are common sense signs to replace your hard hat before it expires.

Anytime an impact causes damage to the material, it is best to replace it. It is recommended after 4-5 years from the manufacturing date replace every hard hat regardless of wear. However, use your best judgment to avoid unnecessary waste or cost.

How can I tell if my hard hat is still in good condition?

Regularly inspect your hard hat for any wear, damage, or deterioration. This could include cracks, dents, fading, or brittleness. If you find any signs of damage, replace the hard hat immediately.

Can I customize my hard hat?

Hard hats can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. Abrasive cleaners or chemicals should be avoided as they can weaken the hat's material. Cleaning the cap regularly is recommended to remove sweat, dirt, and grime.

What color hard hat should I get?

The colors of hard hats are not officially regulated, but a standard has emerged.

Orange - Construction, Road workers, Visitors.
White - Site Managers, Foremen.
Blue - Technical Operators, Electricians.
Green - Safety Inspectors, New workers.
Red - Fire Officials
Yellow - General labor