When an object falls from a height, it can be very dangerous regardless of its size. Injuries to the head due to falling objects or bump hazards are often serious and can even be fatal.
Hard hats are worn in workplaces to protect the head from flying objects, collision impact, debris, and shock among other hazards. As one of the most commonly used types of personal protective equipment, hard hats are a proven means of saving lives in worksites.
When are Safety Hard Hats Required?
- If there is a possibility that a falling object may strike the employee on the head.
- Where fixed or protruding objects may lead to the employee striking his or her head.
- Where a workers head may come in contact with an electrical hazards.
Key Benefits of Wearing Hard Hat at Worksites
Below are some points that further list out the benefits of wearing a safety hard hat at work.
1. Protection against head injuries
As mentioned above, hard hats (or construction helmets) are designed to protect the top of the head against falling objects, and the side of the head, eyes, and neck from any untoward impacts, bumps, scrapes, and electrical exposure. Wearing a hard hat is a mandatory requirement on many sites that should be enforced by employers. Head injuries are one of the top work-related injuries in Australia, and hard hats are crucial in reducing the regularity and the severity of these incidents.
2. Protection against head injurys from slips and falls
Wearing safety helmets while working in a liquid based or a chemical unit ensures that even if the worker slips or falls accidentally, the chances of causing a head injury will be minimal.
3. Colours and Stickers for identification
Safety hard hats come in various colours that can often signify different roles or levels of authority on construction sites. Hard hat decals and stickers can help in identifying trained and authorized safety personnel, first aid officers and emergency personnel. Therefore, responsibility can be assigned quickly in the event or an emergency.
It is evident that hard hats are vital in dangerous situations and on high risk worksites, but often workers don’t see the necessity of wearing them in instances where there is no obvious danger. However it is important to educate your team because a workplace environment, especially a construction worksite can become hazardous at any moment, and hardhats are a proven lifesaving device that should never be discounted.
Southland Supply Group
If you are looking for hard hats, or other Personal Protection Equipment to keep you and your workers safe, Southland offers a wide selection for any industry. For more than 30 years, the company has been one of the top suppliers of safety clothing, footwear, PPE, site safety supplies, safety signs and more.