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THE ORCBS > Chemical Safety > Programs & Guidelines > PPE Manual >
3. PPE Selection
Guidelines d. Head Protection Head protection must be used when a hazard exists due to any of the following:
For example, operations requiring head protection may include: tree trimming, construction and demolition work, electric and communication line maintenance. Protective Helmets (Hard Hats) Protective helmets
are required where falling object hazards are present. Some examples
include: working below other workers who are using tools and materials
which could fall; working around or under conveyor belts which are
carrying parts or materials; working below machinery or process
which might cause material or objects to fall; and working on exposed
energized conductors. ome examples of occupations for which head protection should be considered are: carpenters, electricians, linemen, mechanics and repairers, plumbers and pipe fitters, assemblers, packers, wrappers, sawyers, welders, laborers, freight handlers, timber cutting and logging, stock handlers, and warehouse laborers. By the MIOSHA Standards, all hard hats must be certified to meet ANSI Z89.1-1986. ANSI updated the standard in 1997 changing the types of helmets to provide for crown and side impact protection. The class designation letters have also been changed. Many suppliers are now only listing their products to the 1997 standard. All hard hats meeting the 1997 standard will also meet the 1986 standard. Be certain that hard hats provided are not bump caps. Bump caps look like hard hats but they do not meet the requirements of ANSI Z89.1-1986 and cannot be used to protect employees from the above listed hazards. To check this, inspect each hard hat to confirm that it contains the designation "ANSI Z89.1-1986” or “ANSI Z89.1-1997.” Description of Protective Helmets – 1986 Standard
Description of Protective Helmets – 1997 Standard
Hair enclosures Long hair (longer than four inches) can be drawn into machine parts such as chains, belts, rotating devices, suction devices, and blowers. Hair may even be drawn into machines guarded with mesh. It may also present an ignition risk in areas near open flames or welding. Employees with long hair must cover and protect their hair with a hat, cap, net, or bandana. These items must fit so as to not present a hazard either with machinery, ignition sources, or interference with other PPE.
PPE Manual Table of Contents
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