EN397 spec Hard Hats are required when working in areas where there is a potential for injury to the head from falling objects. In addition, hard hats designed to reduce electrical shock are required when working near exposed electrical conductors that may contact the head.
Specialty types of hard hats include those with miner’s light attachments, reflective stripe for night work, face shields for welders, and attachments for visors or earmuffs.
To enhance protection, hard hats may also incorporate several valuable features:
A peak to prevent dazzling.
A rain gutter.
Ventilation holes or replaceable sweatbands.
Chinstrap or chin guard.
Removable visor.
Integrated earmuffs to protect hearing.
Chemical and heat resistance for working in high-risk environments.
A worker alert system/ proximity sensor with buzzer alarm mounted on the back of the helmet that uses. GPS and RFID technology to help prevent collisions between personnel and machines.
Hard Hat Colour Definitions
Black: Supervisors.
Orange: Slinger/Signaller.
White: Site Manager / Competent Operative / Vehicle Marshall Blue: Inexperienced Person / Visitor / Apprentice / Architect / Anyone else who doesn’t fall into the above categories.
Green: First Aid + Sticker: First Aider.
Red: Fire Marshal + Sticker: Fire Marshal.
The Law
In 2013, hard hats became compulsory under certain circumstances. They and other personal protective equipment (PPE) are considered essential for managing risks that other means cannot control. Legislation and guidance surrounding PPE includes:
Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (as amended) Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 2016/425 Personal Protective Equipment (Enforcement) Regulations 2018 Regulation 2016/425 and the Personal Protective Equipment (Enforcement) Regulations 2018 (Guidance v4), which applies to equipment supplied from 01 April 2021.
Maintenance
Before each use, perform a visual inspection for damage such as cracks, dents, or abrasions.
Look for signs of wear, such as frayed straps or cracks.
Replace the suspension system every 12 months.
Clean with mild soap and warm water, rinse thoroughly, and dry before use.
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