A new study conducted by the International Safety Equipment Association (a trade association representing the leading brands of safety equipment in the United States) and J.J. Keller & Associates Inc. took on the task of examining both the practices and challenges of head protection. The results of the study were released in November 2024.

Head protection is an OSHA requirement in most hazardous environments to prevent internal and external injuries, but there are different ratings for certain types of potential impacts and exposures. One form of head protection does not fit every work environment—thus, the challenges and confusion uncovered in the survey.

Professionals from the construction, manufacturing and transportation industries, among others, responded to the ISEA survey, with 90% acknowledging that they engage in making decisions related to personal protective equipment.

Key findings indicated that:

• The terminology is unclear. There are differences and similarities between hard hats and helmets, leading to confusion created by oversimplification.
• Safety managers experience multiple pain points with head protection. In addition to complicated choices related to finding head protection that fits and is comfortable for all workers, managers struggle to get employees to consistently wear head protection.
• Improved care and maintenance of head protection is needed. Workers need to be educated about how to care for their head protection. Only 54% of safety managers who responded report doing this.
• Standards organizations, manufacturers and other experts have an educational opportunity. Before they can properly train their employees, safety managers need clarity, guidance and education to address head protection issues.

“Head protection has been a cornerstone of workplace safety for decades,” said Cam Mackey, ISEA president and CEO, in a press release. “While the growing variety of head protection options provides greater choice, it has also introduced some confusion for safety professionals and workers. Addressing these challenges head-on and clarifying the most effective solutions and standards will ensure better protection and safety for all.”