Standout Brands In Protective Helmets
The selection of protective helmets available from Rehabmart includes a number of different shapes, styles, and other options. The helmets are both high-quality and reliable, produced by trusted medical supply manufacturers such as Danmar, Fabrication Enterprises, North Coast, Patterson Medical, and Kids Safety Hats. Each helmet has distinct advantages for attending to the needs of certain patient types.
Here are some of Rehabmarts top-rated protective helmets, and their noteworthy advantages:
- Ribcap Protective Helmets – Rehabmart’s top choice for protective headgear! Ribcap is the first and only brand to address the issue of stigma for wearers of protective headgear. Their helmets are made from top-quality materials to be fashionable, safe and breathable. Their trend-setting designs are tested regularly according to the International Rugby Impact Standards.
- Danmar Soft Shell Protective Helmet One of the top-rated protective helmets on the market, this product is composed of a half-inch shell of dense foam that effectively absorbs shock and retains compression resistance. This helmet is noted for its versatility, as it is offered in sizes for children and adults and is intended for use by a variety of different patient types.
Hard Hat: Employee Training
An integral part of an occupational head protection program is ensuring that employees have been trained on the use and care of their hard hats. Employees should receive training that covers at least the following topics:
Why head protection is necessary, citing the workplace hazards that expose workers to head injury
How head protection protects workers
The limitations of head protection, such as Type I hard hats not providing side impact protection
When workers must wear the head protection
How to wear the head protection properly
How to adjust straps and other components of the head protection to improve comfort and ensure proper fit
How to identify signs of wear, including cracked, torn or deteriorated suspension systems deformed or damaged brims or shells and flaking, chalking or loss of surface gloss
How to clean and disinfect the hard hat as needed
When hard hats or their components should be replaced
Employees often have questions during the training program regarding personalization of the hard hat. Before allowing any kind of personalization, contact the hard hat manufacturer regarding their stance on stickers, decals and paint.
Also check recommendations regarding wearing the hard hat backwards . Stickers and decals can hide deterioration or cracks, and paint can weaken the shell of the hard hat and reduce or eliminate electrical resistance.
Hard Hat Hazard Assessment
Every organization should perform a PPE hazard assessment at its workplace. This assessment is designed to identify the hazards of each job and to recommend PPE that will help keep the worker safe. Head protection should be provided if any of the following hazards are observed during the assessment:
Objects that can fall from above and strike workers on the head
Fixed objects, such as exposed pipes or beams, or mobile objects, such as a load being moved by an overhead hoist, against which workers can bump their heads
Exposure to live electrical conductors
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Do Scrum Caps Prevent Concussions
Although rugby players sometimes wear protective headgear with the belief that it will prevent head injuries, research has shown it offers no significant protection against concussions.
Some rugby players opt to use a type of headgear called a scrum cap. A scrum cap is ideal for protecting the ears and reducing superficial head injuries, including lacerations and abrasions.
Many believe concussions are caused by a blow to the head. However, concussions result from neural whiplash, whereby the entire head accelerates and bruises or damages the brain. Scrum caps simply cant protect against this. For this reason, it is a misconception to believe they are effective at preventing concussions.
Several studies found no difference in concussion rates between players who did and did not wear scrum caps. Of the rugby players who regularly wore scrum caps, 63% reported concussions while 55% who did not wear headgear experienced concussions.
Ribcap Protective Baseball Cap
The Ribcap Protective Baseball Cap is perfect for any senior whos still active in the community. Although similar to a stylish baseball cap on the outside, this protective gear provides hidden inner protectors made of flexible viscoelastic to shield the head from injury. Its made of waterproof and breathable materials, which are great for outdoor activities. Although its ideal for any senior whos prone to falling, you can also get it for a loved one who suffers from autism, seizures, and other conditions that increase the likelihood of falling or head injuries. There are two different adjustable sizes available, and the cap comes in either silver, red, or navy. Prices start at $169 with free shipping in the U.S. except Hawaii and Alaska.
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Hard Hat Protection: Current Industry Standards And The Future Of Jobsite Head Injury Prevention Ppe
The modern hard hat has been virtually unchanged since the first introduced polyethylene design in the 1960s. Although today’s hard hats are OSHA-approved and must meet the safety standards established by ANSI and ISEA , in most cases, the manufacturing materials, methods, and technology have advanced little in the many years since the current iteration was created.
That’s why LIFT Safety focuses its design efforts on details that make a difference in hard hat fit, comfort, and safety. LIFT’s hard hat line incorporates designs inspired by sister action sports brand EVS Sports. Each model incorporates innovative features like a six-point suspension system for superior comfort and added impact protection, an innovative synthetic leather comfort dome with molded EVA foam insert for additional shock absorption, and an oversized ratcheting fitment dial for easy on-the-job adjustments when wearing gloves.
When a hard hat is necessary on a job site, users should be sure to select the appropriate model for the work environment. ANSI divides hard hats and protective helmets into different types and classes. The hard hat type indicates the designated level of impact protection, while a hard hat’s classification indicates the degree of electrical voltage protection. Regardless of the type and classification, a hard hat must pass specific tests to meet OSHA regulations. To learn more about Hard Hat Classifications, see our Hard Hat Classification Chart.
Liineparalle Elderly Protective Hat
For as low as $37.09 with free shipping, the Liineparalle Elderly Protective Hat is a terrific solution for indoor use. The head protective gear offers side-ear coverage to guarantee 360-degree safety, and it’s perfect for any senior who suffers from balance problems or fainting spells. Although the hat top is hollow to make it more breathable and comfortable, the material has shock absorption to reduce damage from head impacts. It’s lightweight too, made of cotton and elastic sponge, and has a circumference size ranging from 22.4 to 24 and an ear protection length of 3.5.
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Choosing The Right Type Of Safety Headgear
If the risk assessment determines safety headgear is required, employers need to consider which type of headgear such as hard hats, bump caps, or helmets is appropriate for the workplace tasks and conditions. This includes considering:
- Whether workers may be exposed to electrical hazards
- Whether chin straps are needed
- Whether workers will be on vehicles, mobile equipment, bicycles, or skates
- Applicable standards
Hard Hats: Know The Facts
A construction worker removes his hard hat because he is too warm. An engineer refuses to wear head protection, as she has never been hurt before. A utility worker thinks hard hats make him look silly and removes his every chance he gets.
All of these situations are dangerous. Head injuries can result in traumatic brain injuries and death. In 2012, more than 65,000 cases involving days away from work occurred due to head injuries in the workplace, according to the 2015 edition of the National Safety Council chartbook Injury Facts. That same year, 1,020 workers died from head injuries sustained on the job.
Employers must ensure their workers wear head protection if they are at risk of being struck by falling objects, bumping their heads on fixed objects or coming in contact with electrical hazards.
OSHA states that hard hats should:
- Resist penetration by objects
- Absorb the shock from a blow to the head by an object
- Be slow to burn
- Be water-resistant
All hard hats also should have a label inside the shell listing the manufacturer, ANSI designation and class of the hat.
Another type of head protection, known as a bump cap, is intended for workers in areas that have low head clearance. However, OSHA states that bump caps are not designed to protect against falling or flying objects and are not ANSI-approved.
OSHA offers a number of tips for caring for hard hats, including:
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Why You Need Medical Helmets
When someone falls and hits their head on a hard surface, many types of trauma may happen. From concussions that can lead to seizures, to hematomas that can cause unconsciousness, brain pressure, and even death, head injuries are extremely serious. Although simple by nature, protective helmets are an efficient way to protect the wearer in these scary situations.
While it’s common for athletes and motorcyclists to use protective helmets, this type of gear is also quite helpful for patients who suffer from specific health conditions. For example, people prone to seizures, self-abusive behavior, or any other illness with a risk of sudden falling usually wear medical helmets to be more secure on a daily basis.
But there’s another group of people that can highly benefit from head protective gear the elderly. Even if they don’t suffer from any of the conditions previously mentioned, seniors are more prone to falling, as our balance and muscle strength deteriorate with age. On top of that, since our bone structure becomes weaker as we get older, the likelihood of getting life-changing injuries from a fall also increases. Consequently, if your loved one is already at an advanced age where falling starts to become more common, it’s essential to get a medical helmet for utmost security.
What Should I Know About Head Protection
If you are at risk for head injury at your workplace, you should wear the appropriate head protection against impact and small flying or falling objects.
- If head protection is required, establish a complete safety protection program including selection, fit testing, training, maintenance and inspection.
- Choose the correct headwear for the job. Refer to CSA Standard Z94.1-15 “Industrial protective headwear – Performance, selection, care, and use” or the legislation that applies in your jurisdiction.
- Classes of headwear can include:
- Type 1 – protection from impact and penetration at the crown only
- Type 2 – protection from impact, penetration at the crown and laterally
- Each type is also available in the following classes:
- Class E – provides head protection against high voltage conductors
- Class G – provides head protection against low voltage conductors
- Class C
Note: Certain CSA Group standards are available for online viewing. To access these, you must first create an account with âCSA Communitiesâ.Go to: https://community.csagroup.org/login.jspa?referer=%252Findex.jspaOnce you are logged in, click on the text below the âOHS Standards / View Accessâ graphic.Click on the jurisdiction of your choice to see the CSA Standards as referenced in that legislation. Standards may also be purchased from CSA Group: https://store.csagroup.org/
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What Should I Know About The Shell Of My Headwear
The shell is rigid and light, and is shaped to deflect falling objects. Correct maintenance is important.
- Inspect and replace a shell that shows signs of wear, scratches or gouges. Shells exposed to heat, sunlight and chemicals can become stiff or brittle. A visible pattern of tiny cracks may develop. Over time, weathered hats can become dull in colour or have a chalky appearance.
- Replace headwear when any of the above signs of wear start to appear.
- Replace headwear that has been struck, even if no damage is visible.
- Remove and destroy any headwear if its protective abilities are in doubt.
DO NOT:
- Do not drill holes, alter or modify the shell. Alterations can severely affect the protection provided by the headwear.
- Do not paint the plastic shell. Paint solvents can make plastic headwear brittle and more susceptible to cracks. Paint can also hide cracks that may develop. Instead, use reflective marking tape to make numbers or symbols for identification purposes. Some headwear may be painted, but check with the manufacturer for approval.
- Do not use winter liners that contain metal or electrically conductive material under Class G or E headwear.
- Do not use metal labels on Class G or E headwear.
Moheen Safety Bump Cap With Reflective Stripes
At the more affordable price of $17.99, the MOHEEN Safety Bump Cap is an excellent solution for seniors who occasionally need extra head protection. Designed with dangerous jobs in mind, this protective headgear comes with a resistant ABS plastic shell with foam padding. The cap’s exterior is made of water-repellent polyester, and it’s easy to remove for cleaning. The cap also offers additional reflective stripes, perfect for when it gets dark. It comes with an adjustable Velcro strap for all sizes and, although black is the only color available, you can choose between three different brim sizes.
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New Skullpro Beanie To Protect The Brain Instead Of Bulky Helmets
A new device that looks more like a fashionable beanie than a protective helmet is being used to help people after brain injuries, aiding their psychological recovery.
When Rebecca McAlpine suffered a stroke leading to a life-saving operation where part of her skull was removed, she faced psychological as well as physical challenges.
For three months, the St Agnes mother-of-two faced wearing a bulky sports helmet to protect her brain whenever she went out in public.
Instead, she was able to wear a âfashion beanieâ.
Mrs McAlpine was the first patient to trial the new SkullPro®, a device developed by Australian manufacturer Anatomics and now launched globally.
Neurosurgeon Dr Adam Wells had performed Mrs McAlpineâs initial decompressive hemicraniectomy and, later, the reconstructive cranioplasty to replace the skull. He had been working with Anatomics on the device â a slim, contoured alternative to a helmet, matched to the individual patient to provide an aesthetic cover for skull deformities.
SkullPro® has a thin, tough nylon shell, which sits inside a hypo-allergenic fabric pocket held in place with a beanie, to cover the patientâs skull defect.
For Mrs McAlpine, 36, it was a welcome option in a difficult time as she and husband Craig, and children Isla, 8, and Liam, 5, dealt with her condition.
âI was very happy with the SkullProâ, she said.
Dr Wells said the biggest benefits of SkullPro® were psychological.
Protecting The Back Of The Head
One area where Type I hard hats traditionally have not provided ample coverage is the back of the head. Not specified in the ANSI standard, back-of-head protection is vital to anyone working in environments where snowy, slick or icy conditions exist, as well as anywhere moving or stationary objects may strike the rear of the head. Innovations in Type I hard hat design now allow employers to provide increased protection for workers.
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Head Protex Soft Epilepsy Helmet
Our top selling protective helmet is the Head Protex Soft Epilepsy Helmet, and it’s easy to see why. Suitable from toddlers through to adults, this head injury protective helmet features breathable padded foam that provides protection to those at risk of injury. Its breathable design is ideal for children with autism, while different colours and sizes enable a catered design and fit.
The Head Protex Helmet is incredibly easy to fit, but features childproof clips that mean only the adult can remove the helmet. This isn’t to say that it isn’t just suitable for children, as its comfortable but versatile design can protect adults from injury too. Hypoallergenic, comfortable, lightweight and breathable, this helmet is proven to prevent head injuries.
Fitting the Protex Soft Shell Helmet
Suitable For: Autism balance and co-ordination conditions epilepsy head drop syndrome hydrocephalus fainting children with special needs post-surgical use self harm.
Head Protection From Agilix Solutions
Finally, its important to note that hard hats need to be changed out every five years. Every hard hat has the date of manufacture listed on it, typically inside the front brim. The center number is the year it was manufactured, and the month will be noted by the numbers 1 through 12, in the circular pattern around the outside. 3M has also added a UV indicator to hard hats to make it even easier to recognize expired equipment. When the red label turns white, its time to replace the hard hat.
No matter your environment or needs, Agilix Solutions offers a variety of hard hat options to protect you and your team. Our safety specialists are well versed on the latest trends in head protection and can outfit your crew with the recommended solution to meet the demands of their work so they get home safely to their families. We also help you prioritize accessories like ear protection and face shields, depending upon the application. Reach out to your nearest branch location, or contact your Account Manager to learn more about our head protection offering.
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Workplace Head Injury Prevention: Hard Hat Requirements
Prevention of head injuries is an important part of every safety program. A single head injury can cause irreparable damage and can even be fatal. Many injuries can be avoided by wearing occupational head protection, specifically a safety helmet, or hard hat.
This document outlines the purpose of head protection and types of hard hats. It also discusses training requirements for employees who use hard hats as part of their personal protective equipment program.