OSHA hard hat requirements boil down to this: if there is a risk of head injury from falling or flying objects, bumps or electrical hazards, your employer must provide head protection that meets ANSI Z89.1 and make sure you wear it. The employer also has to assess the hazards, pay for the hat in most cases and train you to use it.
The two OSHA hard hat rules
| Rule | Covers | Core requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 29 CFR 1910.135 | General industry | Protective helmets where there is a potential for injury from falling objects, and electrical-rated helmets near exposed conductors |
| 29 CFR 1926.100 | Construction | Protective helmets where there is a possible danger of head injury from impact, falling or flying objects, or electrical shock and burns |
Both rules require helmets that meet ANSI Z89.1-2009, Z89.1-2003 or Z89.1-1997, or that the employer shows are equally effective. Hard hats certified to the current 2014 edition meet the requirement.
Hazard assessment comes first
Under 29 CFR 1910.132, employers must assess the workplace for hazards and choose PPE that protects against them. That assessment decides whether you need Type I or Type II, Class G or Class E, and any accessories such as chin straps. It is also where an employer can decide that a particular style, including cowboy hard hats, is or is not acceptable.
Who pays for hard hats
OSHA’s PPE rules generally require employers to pay for the protective equipment they require, and hard hats are included. Employers do not have to pay for items an employee chooses to buy for personal reasons when the employer already provides a compliant option, such as a custom or decorative hard hat you prefer over the one issued.
Training
Employers must train workers on when PPE is needed, what kind is needed, how to put it on, adjust and wear it, its limits, and how to care for it. For hard hats that covers fit, inspection, cleaning, storage and replacement.
What OSHA does not regulate
- Shape or style. Cowboy, full-brim and cap styles are all acceptable if certified.
- Colors. There is no OSHA hard hat color code; colors are set by employers.
- A fixed expiration date. OSHA requires hats to be in good condition; service life comes from the manufacturer.
- Product approval. OSHA does not approve brands or models. See are cowboy hard hats OSHA approved?
Condition and inspection
OSHA requires that PPE be maintained in a safe, reliable condition. Defective or damaged hard hats must not be used. In practice that means inspecting the shell and suspension before each use and replacing the hat after any significant impact. See when to replace a cowboy hard hat.
Quick reference
- Is there a head hazard? Then head protection is required.
- Is the hat certified to ANSI Z89.1 with a Type and Class? It must be.
- Does the Type and Class match the hazard assessment?
- Is it in good condition and inside its service life?
- Has the worker been trained on fit and care?
For the ratings themselves, read hard hat types and classes explained. Browse more on the safety guides page.
Sources
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.135, Head protection
- OSHA 29 CFR 1926.100, Head protection (construction)
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.132, PPE general requirements
Frequently asked questions
When does OSHA require a hard hat?
Wherever there is a risk of head injury from falling or flying objects, impact with fixed objects or electrical hazards.
Does my employer have to pay for my hard hat?
Generally yes. OSHA requires employers to pay for required PPE, including hard hats, with limited exceptions for items an employee chooses for personal reasons.
Does OSHA have a hard hat color code?
No. Hard hat colors are set by employers and sites, not OSHA.
Which ANSI standard does OSHA require for hard hats?
ANSI Z89.1-2009, 2003 or 1997, or an equally effective standard. Hats certified to the 2014 edition meet the requirement.