Hard Hat Requirements

A label inside each hard hat or protective helmet designates the manufacturer's name, ANSI standard, and its class.

Hard hats and protective helmets must comply with ANSI standard ANSI Z89.1-1969.

Hard hats must be worn to meet ANSI standards; they should never be worn backwards. Employers must check that hard hats continue to provide sufficient protection, by training employees in the proper use and maintenance (including daily inspection).

Hard hats must not be used if the suspension system shows sign of deterioration or does not hold the shell away from the employee's head.

The shell or brim must not be cracked, perforated or deformed, or show signs of exposure to heat, chemicals or Ultraviolet light.

Exposure to some chemicals, paints, paint thinners, and cleaning agents can weaken the shell and potentially reduce the electrical resistance of hard hats that provide such protection.

Paints and sticker use must be limited, so that signs of deterioration on the shell are not hidden.

Other types of protective headgear are available, depending on the hazard. For example, bump caps can provide protection from bumping into an obstacle, but not impact.

To learn more about PPE visit our Personal Protective Equipment Online Training web page.