Think about this for a minute: the head is about one-seventh of a body’s total height, but it’s the nerve center for everything done on the job site. Your eyes, your ears, your nose… almost everything you use for sensory input resides there.
But, your head also houses the most important organ in your body: the brain. If damaged, nothing else functions properly. Head protection helps to safeguard this vital organ that’s so important, both on the job and off.
That means choosing the right hard hat for your application is critical.
A hard hat is designed to protect from impacts that could damage the brain. So, take its upkeep seriously. Sunlight can affect many hard hat materials, so make sure your hard hat is stored away from it. That means it really shouldn’t be left on a truck’s dashboard or hanging from a hook on the back windshield.
Prolonged or even incidental contact with some chemicals and harsh detergents can deteriorate the shell’s materials. It should never be cleaned with gasoline, paint thinner, or any petroleum-based liquid. Mild soap and water are safe to use. If tar or other sticky materials can’t be removed with soap and water, it’s better to replace the hard hat and not risk worker safety.
Inspect hard hats regularly throughout the day. Damage can occur without notice and compromise protection. Of course, any hard hat that’s been struck severely should be immediately removed from service and replaced. Even if it looks OK, hairline cracks that you can’t see will affect its integrity.
And always remember this. Your head may only be a 15% of your body height…but, protecting it deserves 100% of your attention. Work safely!
Learn more MSA Head Protection
