Head injuries remain a leading cause of serious incidents on construction sites. Falling objects, fixed hazards, electrical exposure, and slips all place workers at risk. OSHA safety helmets are designed to reduce that risk, but not all helmets serve the same purpose. Selecting the correct type of helmet for construction work depends on the hazards present and the tasks being performed.
Let’s break down the main types of helmets used in construction and how employers can match helmet selection to jobsite conditions.
OSHA Requirements for Safety Helmets
OSHA requires head protection when employees are exposed to falling objects, fixed-object head strike hazards, or potential contact with electrical hazards. Employers must select head protection that matches the specific hazards present on the jobsite.
OSHA does not approve or certify helmet brands. Compliance depends on using head protection that meets the applicable ANSI Z89.1 requirements for type, class, and intended use.
Safety Helmets vs. Hard Hats
The terms safety helmet and traditional head protection are often used interchangeably, but neither term defines the level of protection provided. A safety helmet may still be rated as Type I, while other head protection may be Type II and include a chin strap. The actual ANSI rating and features matter more than the terminology used.
Traditional Construction Helmet Types
Traditional construction helmets represent one of the most common types of helmets used on construction sites. Under ANSI standards, helmets are designated as either Type I or Type II based on impact direction, with no overlap between the two categories.
Type I Hard Hats
Type I helmets protect against impacts to the top of the head. They are widely used in:
- general construction
- road and highway work
- material handling operations
These helmets are not designed to protect against side impacts.
Type II Hard Hats
Type II helmets protect against both top and lateral impacts. They are evaluated for front, back, and side impact performance in addition to top impact protection. They provide broader impact resistance and are increasingly used on jobsites with:
- construction with moving equipment
- elevated work
- struck-by exposure
- slip, trip, and fall risk
Why Jobsites Are Shifting Toward Type II Protection
In 2023, OSHA announced it is replacing traditional hard hats worn by its employees with modern safety helmets to improve protection from side impacts, slips, and falls. The agency emphasized that this change reflects advancements in head protection design and does not change employer compliance requirements, which remain based on hazard assessment and ANSI-rated head protection. Many construction sites are now placing greater emphasis on Type II-rated helmets for this reason.
OSHA Safety Helmets (Climbing-Style Helmets)
OSHA safety helmets are a distinct category within the broader types of helmets used in construction. On elevated work, helmet retention is especially important because head protection that shifts or dislodges during a fall may fail to provide protection when it is needed most.
Climbing style construction safety helmets are commonly used in:
- Steel erection
- Utility work
- Elevated / climbing tasks
- Confined space construction
These types of OSHA safety helmets differ from traditional construction head protection in both design and performance. These helmets typically include a chin strap and foam liner, offering impact protection from multiple directions.
Because they stay secured during movement or falls, industrial safety helmets reduce the chance of the helmet coming off during an incident. When chin straps are provided, they are intended to support helmet retention during impact or fall events.
Electrical Protection Classes
Electrical ratings further differentiate the types of helmets used in construction environments. Selecting the wrong class can create added risk. Categories are as follows:
Class G (General)
- Rated for low-voltage protection
- Tested up to 2,200 volts
- Common on standard construction sites
- (listed as Class A in ANSI Z89.1)
Class E (Electrical)
- Rated for high-voltage protection
- Tested up to 20,000 volts
- Used by electricians and utility crews
- (listed as Class B in ANSI Z89.1)
Class C (Conductive)
- No electrical protection
- Often vented for comfort
- Not allowed where electrical hazards exist
- (ANSI-classified but not electrically protective)
Note: Class C helmets should never be used on sites where temporary power, overhead lines, or energized equipment may be present.
Specialized Helmets for Construction Tasks
Some construction activities require helmets with added features:
- Welding helmets with integrated head protection
- Bump caps for low-clearance areas (not permitted where impact hazards exist)
- Helmets with face shields or hearing protection for cutting, grinding, or demolition
Employers must evaluate job tasks carefully before allowing alternatives to standard helmets.
Proper Use and Maintenance
Even the correct helmet fails if used improperly. Employers should address:
- Correct fit and adjustment
- Chin strap use when provided
- Routine inspection for cracks, UV damage, or worn suspension systems (Helmets exposed to heat / sunlight may degrade faster than expected.)
- Replacement after impact or according to manufacturer guidance
Safety By Design Can Help Protect Your Workers
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