Headwear, Care of

What should I know about head protection?What should I know about the shell of my headwear?What should I know about the suspension of my headwear?What should I know about maintenance?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.
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(M1977 or -92), "Industrial Protective Headwear" or the legislation that applies in your jurisdiction.
Classes of headwear can include:
Class G: General Usage (non-conducting) Class E: Electrical Trades (non-conducting) Class C: Conducting
Headwear consists of a shell and the suspension. These work together as a system and both need regular inspection and maintenance.
Do not transport headwear in rear windows of vehicles.
Inspect headwear before each use.
Do not draw the chin strap over the brim or peak of the headwear.
Do not wear headwear backwards (the peak should always face forwards).
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.
DO:
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 hairline cracks 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 may reduce 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. Metal headwear may be painted.
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.
What should I know about the suspension of my headwear?
The suspension system is as important as the shell. It holds the shell away from the head and acts as a shock-absorber. It also holds the shell in place on the head and allows air to flow freely.
Adjust headband size so that headwear will stay on when the wearer is bending over, but not so tight that it leaves a mark on the forehead.
Ensure that the suspension is in good condition. The main purpose of the suspension is to absorb energy.
Look closely for cracked or torn adjustment slots, frayed material or other signs of wear.
Check the suspension lugs carefully. Long periods of normal use can damage the suspension. Perspiration and hair oils can speed up the deterioration of suspension materials.
Replace the suspension if it has torn or broken threads.
Do not put anything between the suspension and the shell. There must be a clearance inside the headwear while it is being worn. In case of a blow to the head, that space helps absorb the shock.
What should I know about maintenance?
The care and maintenance of headwear are needed if the headwear is to protect as designed. Its lifespan is affected by normal use and by heat, cold, chemicals and ultraviolet rays.
Clean the suspension and shell regularly according to the manufacturers' instructions.
Document last updated on May 5, 1999
By courtesy of:-Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety