Head Protection - Proper Care

The OSHA handbook Personal Protective Equipment provides useful guidelines for the care and storage of head protection. Its reminders and requirements include the following:

• Periodic cleaning and inspection will extend the useful life of protective headgear.
• A daily inspection of the hard hat shell, suspension system, and other accessories for holes, cracks, tears, or other damage that might compromise the protective value of the hat is essential.
• Paints, paint thinners, and some cleaning agents can weaken the shells of hard hats and may eliminate electrical resistance.
• Consult the helmet manufacturer for information on the effects of paint and cleaning materials on their hard hats.
• Never drill holes in, paint, or apply labels to protective headgear as this may reduce the integrity of the protection.
• Do not store protective headgear in direct sunlight, such as on the rear window shelf of a car, since sunlight and extreme heat can damage it.

To learn more about HAZWOPER visit our HAZWOPER 40 Hour Online Training web page.