A side impact hard hat is a type of protective headwear specifically designed to protect wearers not only from falling objects striking the top of the head but also from blows received from the side, off-center, or laterally.
These are commonly referred to as Type II Hard Hats. According to the provided reference, Type II Hard Hats are intended to reduce the force of lateral impact resulting from a blow which may be received off-center, from the side, or to the top of the head. This form of impact, for example, may result from contact with the sharp corner of a side beam.
Key Features and Purpose
Unlike traditional hard hats (Type I), which primarily offer protection from impacts directly to the crown, side impact hard hats provide enhanced safety by incorporating features that absorb energy from various angles.
- Enhanced Protection: They offer protection against vertical impacts as well as lateral impacts.
- Energy Absorption: They are constructed with materials and suspension systems designed to dissipate energy from blows coming from the sides, front, or back, in addition to the top.
- Purpose: To protect against a wider range of potential hazards encountered in dynamic work environments where impacts can come from multiple directions.
Type I vs. Type II Hard Hats
Understanding the difference between Type I and Type II hard hats helps clarify the role of side impact protection.
| Feature | Type I Hard Hat | Type II Hard Hat (Side Impact) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Impact | Top of the head (falling objects) | Top, side, front, back (lateral impact) |
| Protection Area | Crown | Full head (including sides) |
| Examples | Protecting from falling tools | Protecting from striking beams, pipes |
When Are Side Impact Hard Hats Required?
Side impact hard hats are often required in work environments where there is a risk of:
- Falling or swinging objects hitting the side of the head.
- Striking against stationary objects like beams, walls, or equipment while moving in confined spaces.
- Impacts from various angles due to dynamic work activities.
Common industries and applications include:
- Construction (especially in tight spaces or around scaffolding)
- Manufacturing
- Mining
- Utility work
- Oil and gas
Choosing the correct type of hard hat based on the specific hazards of a work site is crucial for ensuring adequate head protection.
