Analyze helmet selection principles

Hard hats are commonly seen on construction sites and in various industrial environments. Workers such as miners and construction laborers often wear safety helmets to protect themselves from potential hazards. In this article, we’ll explore how to choose the right hard hat and the key considerations when using it.

Selection Principles

1. Safety helmets should be worn by anyone working in areas where objects may fall from high places or move laterally, such as high-altitude workers or those entering such zones.

2. Material selection is crucial. The choice of material depends on the mechanical strength required and the working environment. If heavy objects might fall, use helmets made of stronger materials. In smelting operations, fire-resistant FRP helmets are recommended. In hot climates, bamboo safety helmets with good ventilation are ideal for construction work. In cold regions, outdoor workers should use insulated helmets designed for low temperatures.

3. Style matters too. Wide-brimmed (tongue) caps are suitable for open-air tasks, offering protection from sun and rain. Small caps are better for indoor settings, tunnels, culverts, forests, and scaffolding—where movement is limited and collisions are more likely.

4. Color choice should consider safety psychology. Yellow and black stripes are commonly used for caution signs, red indicates restrictions or prohibitions, and blue represents instructions. For general work, white, light yellow, or light green helmets are typically preferred. However, miners should opt for bright colors, and some even add fluorescent strips or reflective tape to improve visibility in low-light conditions. On forest cutting sites, red or orange helmets stand out and help workers locate each other easily. In flammable or explosive areas, red helmets are a common choice. Some companies use different helmet colors to distinguish job roles, which helps in managing production efficiently.

Usage Tips

1. Before putting on a hard hat, always check that all parts are intact and ready for use.

2. Workers at heights must wear their helmets properly. Make sure the chin strap is securely fastened to the back cap to prevent the helmet from slipping off or being knocked off.

3. Thermoplastic helmets can be cleaned with clean water, but avoid soaking them in hot water or exposing them to heat sources like radiators or stoves, as this may cause deformation.

4. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding the helmet’s service life. Never use a damaged or expired helmet.

Coal miners and construction workers must pay close attention to these details to ensure their safety and compliance with industry standards.

China Labor Insurance Network