Helmet Safety Update: Using Your Head on the Job

From the moment a new tradesperson steps on their first jobsite, it is drilled into their head that protecting their head is the most important job that they have. It’s not a coincidence that hardhats are the universal symbol of construction workers. However, in the last few years, you’ve probably noticed some big changes in headgear PPE — helmets that look different from our traditional hardhats seem to be more and more prevalent on jobsites.

That is because the new Type 2 helmets, which include chin straps and have enhanced impact protection, are proving to be more effective in preventing traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in certain situations. TBIs, caused by falls or being struck by falling objects, can lead to long-term disability or even death. Over 50,000 work-related TBIs are treated annually in emergency departments across the US, and the construction industry accounts for a substantial percentage of these injuries. Wearing the right protective headgear is not just recommended — it’s essential.

The key difference between Type 2 helmets and traditional hardhats lies in the design and level of protection. Helmets, designed similarly to rock climbing headgear, feature a chin strap, and may include a combination of foam liners and webbed suspension systems, which offers better protection against both top and side impacts.

Of course, it’s up to contractors to make sure that their employees have the right PPE for the job. Not every project requires a Type 2 helmet, but if one does, your contractor should be providing it to you, just like they provide gloves or safety glasses. BAC signatory contractors are stepping up to make sure that members have Type 2 helmets when more comprehensive headgear is required.

At a recent meeting of the BAC Joint Labor Management Committee, Jack Tribbia, President of the Restoration Division at Berglund Construction Company in Chicago, IL, provided key context for the evolution of PPE, stating that “to put things in perspective: the helmets that we are going to buy are about $125 each. A tuckpointer or a bricklayer costs us $120 an hour. So, you’re paying for one hour of work to pay for that tradesperson’s helmet. When you look at it that way, it’s not a significant cost.”

“For many of our members, standard hard hats provide the needed protection for their jobsite,” said Secretary-Treasurer Jeremiah Sullivan. “However, it is our duty as the union to keep up with the current research and have conversations with our signatory contractors and members to ensure that every BAC worker has the proper PPE every day they come to work.”