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Injuries to the head can be some of the most severe injuries workers can experience. That is why OSHA requires employers to protect employees from hazards from falling objects that could strike the head. This takes the form of hard hats and similar PPE.

Scope

OSHA’s head protection standard applies to all general industry employers who have employees with exposure to such hazards.

Regulatory citations

Key definitions

  • ANSI Z89.1: An American National Standard for the design, testing, and use of head protection. There are three editions of the standard for which OSHA says head protection can meet to comply with 1910.135 (1997, 2003, and 2009).
  • Hard hats (head protectors): Hard hats are worn by employees to lessen injury from falling objects; the equipment has a hard outer shell and a suspension system inside. Head protection is currently made and labeled as one of two types and one of three classes:
    • Type 1 Helmets are intended to reduce the force of impact resulting from a blow only to the top of the head.
    • Type 2 Helmets are intended to reduce the force of impact resulting from a blow to the top or sides of the head.
    • Class G helmets are intended to reduce the danger of contact exposure to low voltage conductors. Test samples are proof–tested at 2200 volts (phase to ground). This voltage is not intended as an indication of the voltage at which the helmet protects the wearer.
    • Class E helmets are intended to reduce the danger of contact with higher voltage conductors. Test samples are proof–tested at 20,000 volts (phase to ground). This voltage is not intended as an indication of the voltage at which the helmet protects the wearer.
    • Class C helmets are not intended to provide protection against contact with electrical hazards.

Summary of requirements

The following are required by OSHA with regard to head protection:

  • Assess the workplace for areas where employees could receive head injury from falling objects, or contact with exposed electrical conductors.
  • Select appropriate head protection for the hazard, taking into account any electrical hazards.
  • Ensure head protection meets one of three editions of ANSI Z89.1 standards (1997, 2003, or 2009, or equivalent).
  • Provide head protection at no cost to the employee.
  • Train employees on how to use and care for head protection.
  • Enforce the use of head protection when needed.
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['Personal Protective Equipment']
['Personal Protective Equipment']
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