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Hard hat safety

Safety Guides

Hard hat safety comes down to four things: the rules that apply to your work, the right rating, a proper fit and knowing when to replace the hat. Each guide starts with the short answer.

Construction worker holding a white hard hat on a job site

OSHA rules

What the regulations require and who decides on your site. Read the guide.

ANSI ratings

Type, Class and the label inside the shell. Read the guide.

Fit

Sizing and suspension adjustment. Read the guide.

Replacement

Damage signs and date stamps. Read the guide.

All safety guides

Compliance and how-to guides

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Daily routine

A 30-second hard hat check before every shift

  1. Shell. No cracks, dents, deep scratches, chalky or faded patches.
  2. Suspension. Straps intact, clips locked into the shell, no fraying.
  3. Fit. Snug when you nod and look down, without pressure points.
  4. Label. Readable, with a date still inside the maker's service life.

Safety questions

What does OSHA require for hard hats?

Employers must provide head protection that meets ANSI Z89.1 wherever there is a risk of head injury from falling or flying objects, impact or electrical hazards.

How often should a hard hat be inspected?

Before every use. Check the shell for cracks, dents, chalky or faded spots and the suspension for frayed straps or broken clips.

Who pays for hard hats at work?

Under OSHA rules, employers generally must pay for required PPE, including hard hats.

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