Head injuries account for thousands of on-the-job injuries and many preventable fatalities each year. Struck-by hazards are also one of the leading types of occupational injuries in the construction industry. In addition, falling objects are responsible for more than one-third of all head-related incidents in the workplace.


The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards require employers to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) anytime there is a “reasonable probability” that an injury can occur and where such equipment can prevent it. Far too often, employees ignore these rules, and the consequences are dire.


Although PPE should only be used as a supplementary form of protection when hazards cannot be controlled by other means, it is still vital that workers use it to ensure their own safety. Every employee should be trained on proper PPE selection, fitting, use and maintenance.


Hard hats are the most common form of head protection. According to a U.S. Department of Labor fact sheet, “Protective hats for head protection against impact blows must be able to withstand penetration and absorb the shock of a blow. In some cases hats should also protect against electric shock. Recognized standards for hats have been established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).”


There are two categories of impact protection for hard hats: Type I and Type II. Type I hard hats are intended to reduce the force of impact resulting from a blow only to the top of the head. Type II hard hats are intended to reduce the force of lateral impact resulting from a blow that is received off-center, from the side, or to the top of the head.


In addition, there are three classifications of hard hats: G, E and C. Class G (general) hard hats offer protection against electrical hazards of up to 2,200 volts (V). Class E (electrical) hard hats provide the greatest protection for electricians, linemen and wiremen, insulating against high-voltage shock, burns and electricity up to 20,000V. Class C (conductive) hard hats are not designed to be used in electrical work.


Another form of head protection is a bump hat, which provides protection in low clearance areas. Unfortunately, this type of PPE does not offer protection from falling objects or electrical hazards. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that 85 percent of all job-related head injuries simply involve cuts or bruises to the scalp and forehead, and roughly only a quarter of those result in a concussion.


It is imperative that head protection fits properly. Most hard hats on the market are available in multiple sizes and have adjustable headbands to ensure a proper fit. According to OSHA, there should be sufficient clearance between the shell and the suspension system for ventilation and impact distribution. It should not bind, slip, fall off or irritate the skin.


Hard hats and head protection should be inspected daily and cleaned periodically with mild soap and water. When inspecting a hard hat, workers should check the suspension system and other accessories for holes, cracks, tears or other damage. If any of these conditions are observed, the PPE should not be worn, because the integrity has been compromised. In this case, it should then be tagged and removed from service. If there are any indicators of perforation; cracking; deformity on the brim or shell; or exposure to heat, chemicals or radiation, the hard hat is unsafe for use.


Workers should never drill holes, paint or apply labels to protective headwear. Some paints, paint thinners and cleaning agents can compromise the protective quality of hard hats and other head protection. In addition, all forms of head protection should always be replaced after an impact from a falling object. They should also never be stored in direct sunlight.


In addition to wearing head protection, there are a number of other measures workers can take to reduce the risk of head injury. For example, when performing overhead work, workers should secure all tools and materials; use toe-boards, screens, guardrails and debris nets; barricade the area and post signs; and store materials in buildings under construction farther than 6 feet from hoistway/floor openings and more than 10 feet from exterior walls. Furthermore, if objects have the potential to become airborne while being moved, employees should stack and secure materials to prevent them from sliding, falling or collapsing.


Most on-the-job incidents involving the head are preventable. Protect yourself and your employees from common hazards that cause these types of injuries and fatalities. 


For more information regarding head safety, protection or other forms of PPE, visit www.osha.gov.