The Hard Truth about Hard Hats and Bump Caps

When working in any area where there is danger of head injury from impact, or from flying objects, or from electrical shock and burns, OSHA requires those workers to wear protective headgear. More specifically, workers need an ANSI- and OSHA- approved hard hat. This applies to industries including construction, manufacturing, utilities, forestry, and more. However, it is still common for workers to accidentally wear unapproved or inadequate PPE.

Hard Hats

Hard hats come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, and the option you choose may depend on the hazards in your industry. Type I hard hats are specifically built to protect the top of the head, while Type II hard hats are designed to add protection to the front, sides, or back of the head as well.

There are also hard hats that are specialized for specific hazards, such a heat-resistant hats for firefighters. Some hard hats are built using special polymers and other materials that protect against high-voltage electrical conductors, which can help prevent electrocution or burning. Others include built-in ventilation holes to improve airflow while working in humid or heated environments, designed to keep your team from overheating.

Bump Caps

Bump caps are small plastic devices that are less obtrusive than hard hats and can sometimes even fit underneath a hat or toboggan. This makes them a go-to option when doing light work where there are overhead hazards. However, they are only designed to protect against small impacts rather than life-threatening hits. Martin Safety Professional Malcolm Ritchie says that workers are not allowed to use bump caps in situations where hard hats are required. Bump caps should only be used as an additional safety precaution when hard hats are not necessary.

“If there is overhead work in a facility, people working overhead using equipment, having raw material, or having a side grinder or something that has the potential to fall on the workers below, then they must have a hard hat.”

If hard hats are not required by OSHA at your jobsite, but you want your team to be safe, bump caps could be the best option for you. They can be much cheaper than hard hats while still offering light protection against falling objects and other hazards.

The Hard Truth

The hard truth about safety is that it can sometimes be difficult to find something that works for you. Martin Supply has dozens of options available for both hard hats and bump caps from top suppliers. Our team can work with you to find the safest and most cost-effective solution.

Contact your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116 to learn more.