Cowboy hard hat ANSI ratings come down to two markings: most are ANSI Z89.1 Type I, which covers impacts to the top of the head, with Class G or Class E electrical protection. The Type tells you where the hat protects against impact and the Class tells you how much electrical protection the shell gives; both are printed on the label inside the shell.
The standard: ANSI/ISEA Z89.1
ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 is the American National Standard for industrial head protection, published by the International Safety Equipment Association. The current edition is Z89.1-2014, which was reaffirmed in 2019. OSHA’s rules refer to the 2009, 2003 and 1997 editions; a hat certified to the 2014 edition meets OSHA’s requirement as well.
The standard sets out tests for impact, penetration and electrical insulation, plus optional tests for temperature and visibility. Every certified hard hat is classified by Type and Class.
Type: where the hat protects you
| Type | Protects against | Cowboy hard hats |
|---|---|---|
| Type I | Impact and penetration from objects striking the top of the head | Almost every cowboy hard hat is Type I |
| Type II | Impact and penetration to the top and sides of the head, including off-center strikes | Rare in a western shape; usually found in cap-style and climbing helmets |
Type I is the traditional hard hat rating and what most work sites have accepted for decades. Type II adds lateral protection, which matters where falls, swinging loads or work at height can cause side impacts. If your employer requires Type II, a standard cowboy hard hat will not meet the requirement.
Class: electrical protection
| Class | Test voltage | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| Class G (General) | 2,200 volts | General work where contact with low-voltage conductors is possible |
| Class E (Electrical) | 20,000 volts | Work near higher-voltage conductors; utilities, electricians, many oil and gas sites |
| Class C (Conductive) | Not tested | No electrical hazards; often vented for airflow |
The voltages are proof tests on the shell, not a rating for touching live lines. A Class E hat is one part of electrical protection, alongside the rest of your PPE and safe work practices. Many cowboy hard hats are rated Class E; vented models are Class C because the openings let current through.
Older hard hats were labeled Class A, B and C. In the 1997 edition these became G, E and C. If you see Class A or B on a hat, it is decades old and should be retired.
Optional markings
- LT (low temperature): passed impact and penetration tests at -22°F (-30°C).
- HT (high temperature): passed tests at 140°F (60°C).
- HV (high visibility): meets color and brightness requirements for high-visibility use.
- Reverse donning arrow: a curved arrow symbol means the hat can be worn backward with the suspension turned around. Western shapes are rarely marked for this.
How to read cowboy hard hat ANSI ratings on the label
Inside a typical cowboy hard hat you will find a marking such as:
ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014 · Type I · Class E · Size 6½–8
Nearby is the manufacturer’s name and a date of manufacture, usually a small dial showing the month and year. That date starts the clock on the manufacturer’s service life, which we cover in when to replace a cowboy hard hat.
Which rating does your job need?
| Work | Typical minimum |
|---|---|
| Ranch, farm and landscaping | Type I, Class G |
| Oil and gas field work | Type I, Class E is common; check operator rules |
| Electrical and utility work | Class E, Type set by employer |
| Construction | Type I, Class G or E; many contractors now require Type II |
This table is a starting point. Your employer’s hazard assessment decides the rating you need. See are cowboy hard hats OSHA approved? for how OSHA’s rules fit in.
What can void a rating
Drilling holes, using paint or solvents on the shell, adding stickers or accessories the manufacturer does not allow, or swapping in a suspension from another brand can all void the certification. Follow the instructions that come with your hat.
More guides on ratings and fit are on the cowboy hard hats and hard hats hubs.
Sources
- International Safety Equipment Association (ANSI/ISEA Z89.1)
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.135, Head protection
- OSHA 29 CFR 1926.100, Head protection (construction)
Frequently asked questions
What ANSI rating are most cowboy hard hats?
Most cowboy hard hats are rated ANSI Z89.1 Type I, with Class G or Class E electrical protection. Vented models are Class C.
Are there Type II cowboy hard hats?
They are rare. Nearly all western-style hard hats are Type I, which covers top impacts only. Type II helmets are usually cap-style or climbing-style.
What is the difference between Class G and Class E?
Class G shells are proof-tested at 2,200 volts and Class E shells at 20,000 volts. Class E is required for work near higher-voltage conductors.
What does Class C mean on a hard hat?
Class C means conductive: the hat gives no electrical protection. It is often vented and is only suitable where there are no electrical hazards.