Hard hats are designed to protect you from the impact of falling objects. However, the way we care for our hard hats can have a big impact (no pun intended) on how well it does its job.
Hard Hat Do’s:
- CLEAN your hard hat as needed, using a mild soap and water solution or other solution recommended by the manufacturer.
- STORE your hard hat as recommended by the manufacturer, which means keeping it out of the direct sun (like on the back dash of your car) and out of areas with high heat (like in the boot) while you’re off the job.
- INSPECT your hard hat shell and suspension for damage and deterioration every day before use, as well as after any event that may affect its integrity (such as being struck by a falling object or crushed).
- REPLACE your hard hat shell or suspension when it shows any signs of damage or deterioration.
Hard Hat Don’ts:
- DO NOT paint your hard hat as it can degrade the strength of the hard hat shell, making it easier to break.
- DO NOT use solvents to clean your hard hat. Just like with paints, solvents can also degrade the strength of the hard hat shell.
- DO NOT alter or modify your hard hat. Drilling holes and/or inserting screws in your hard hat so you can add attachments (or for any other reason) can weaken the shell of your hard hat.
- DO NOT wear your hard hat backwards unless specifically approved by the hard hat manufacturer.
- DO NOT wear a cap or beanie under your hard hat. Doing so could interfere with the suspension and shell, which work together to reduce the force of an impact. Cold weather liners approved by the hard hat manufacturer are available.
Remember:
Obviously, your hard hat won’t protect you unless it’s being worn. But to give you the maximum protection offered, they must also be worn in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations for the particular brand and model in use.
