November 27, 2024 | Posted by MICRO
OSHA Updates Guidance on Head Protection: Key Highlights from the April 2024 SHIB
On April 12, 2024, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released an updated version of its “Head Protection: Safety Helmets in the Workplace” Safety and Health Information Bulletin (SHIB). This revised version builds on the November 2023 release, clarifying critical points about head protection types, classes, and factors to consider when selecting protective equipment.
According to OSHA, “With a thorough understanding of the benefits and capabilities of head protection options, employers and workers can make informed decisions on selection and use.” The updated SHIB emphasizes that modern head protection, including safety helmets and hard hats, comes in various styles and levels of protection to suit diverse workplace needs.
The bulletin also acknowledges compliance with OSHA head protection standards through ANSI Z89.1, ensuring that all types and classes of hard hats described in the guidance meet safety requirements. Additionally, it highlights the flexibility offered by a wide range of head protection options, enabling employers and workers to choose solutions tailored to their specific jobs and environments.
Head Protection Types and Classes
OSHA identifies two Types (impact protection) and three Classes (electrical protection) of head protection, as follows:
- Type I: Protects against impacts to the top of the head.
- Type II: Protects against impacts to both the top and sides of the head.
- Class G (General): Designed to reduce exposure to low-voltage conductors and tested to withstand 2,200 volts (phase to ground).
- Class E (Electrical): Provides protection against high-voltage conductors and tested to withstand 20,000 volts (phase to ground).
- Class C (Conductive): Not intended for protection against electrical hazards.
The SHIB also underscores the importance of accessories, such as chinstraps, face shields, eye protection, and hearing protection, to address specific jobsite hazards.
How to Select Head Protection
OSHA has determined that Type II, Class G helmets are most suitable for its own employees. However, it acknowledges that employers and workers should perform a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) to determine the best head protection for their unique needs.
The SHIB provides guidance for selecting head protection across various industries and applications, including:
- Construction Sites: Risks include falling objects, debris, equipment impacts, awkward positions, and slip, trip, and fall hazards.
- Oil and Gas: Potential hazards involve exposure to chemicals and severe impacts.
- Working at Height: Requires robust protection against falls.
- Electrical Work: Headgear should address proximity to electrical hazards.
- Extreme Temperature Environments: High- and low-temperature considerations are critical.
- High Visibility Work: Essential for construction and road crews.
- Specialized Environments: May require integrated solutions like face shields, hearing protection, or communication devices.
Key Considerations for Hazard Assessments
When conducting a Hazard Assessment, employers should evaluate:
- Historical Data: Records of head injuries or near-misses.
- Specific Risks: Falling objects, lateral impacts, electrical hazards, or chemical exposure.
- Task Requirements: Activities such as confined space entry, climbing, or welding.
- Environmental Conditions: Electrical sources, extreme weather, or high noise levels.
- Additional Factors: Comfort, worker compliance, and the need for PPE customization.
By carefully considering these factors, employers can select the most effective head protection, ensuring worker safety and compliance with OSHA standards. This updated SHIB serves as a critical resource for improving workplace safety across industries.
How to Inspect Head Protection
Head protection is designed to provide single-use impact protection, meaning it may not remain effective after experiencing a significant impact. Any hard hat that has been severely struck should be immediately removed from service and replaced.
Regular inspection of head protection—both before use and throughout the day—ensures its protective capabilities are not compromised by seemingly minor damage, such as hairline cracks or superficial dents.
The updated OSHA SHIB outlines key inspection and storage steps:
- Inspect the Outer Shell: Look for cracks, dents, or other signs of damage.
- Examine the Suspension System: Check the headband, chin strap, and other components for wear and tear.
- Verify Labels and Certification Marks: Ensure they are legible and intact.
- Check Accessories and Attachments: Confirm they are secure and in good condition.
- Ensure Proper Fit: Adjust as necessary to maintain a secure, comfortable fit.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the lifespan and when to remove head protection from service.
- Clean and Store Appropriately: Clean and dry the equipment before storing it in a cool, dry place.
- Keep Inspection Records: Document inspection dates, findings, and any corrective actions taken.
