Type 2 Safety Helmets: Why More Canadian Organizations Are Considering the Shift
Head injuries remain among the most serious incidents that can occur in the workplace. Whether on construction sites, in utilities, mining operations or industrial environments, workers are exposed to hazards that can lead to severe trauma.
Historically, most workplaces have relied on Type 1 safety helmets, commonly referred to as hard hats, designed primarily to protect against impacts to the top of the head, such as falling objects.
However, many incident investigations show that a significant number of head injuries result from lateral impacts, when the head comes into contact with a structure, equipment or moving object.
To better address these risks, many organizations are now evaluating Type 2 safety helmets, designed to provide protection against both top and lateral impacts.What Is a Type 2 Safety Helmet?
In Canada, industrial protective headwear is governed by the CSA Z94.1 - Industrial Protective Headwear standard.
This standard classifies helmets based on the type of impact protection they provide.
Type 1 Helmets
Type 1 helmets provide protection against impacts and penetration from objects striking the top of the head. They are typically used in environments where the primary hazard is falling objects.
Type 2 Helmets
Type 2 helmets provide protection against impacts and penetration from objects striking both the sides and the top of the head. They incorporate features that help absorb energy from lateral impacts, reducing the risk of injury when the head strikes an object or structure.
Discover Type 2 safety helmets available at SPI
Why Lateral Impact Protection Matters
While falling objects remain a significant hazard, many incidents occur when workers strike their head against an object or structure.
These situations may arise during:
- Loss of balance while working at heights
- Slips, trips or falls
- Movement in confined or restricted spaces
- Working around equipment or structures
- Tasks performed in complex industrial environments
Industries Considering Type 2 Helmets
Although often associated with construction, Type 2 helmets are relevant across several industries where workers are exposed to lateral impact risks.
Construction
Construction sites involve multiple hazards, including falling objects, work at heights and movement around structures or equipment. Lateral impacts can occur when workers fall or strike structures.
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In this article, discover why EllisDon, a leader in the construction industry, is moving toward adopting Type 2 safety helmets.
Utilities and Energy
Workers in electrical and telecommunications sectors often perform tasks at height or in unstable environments where lateral impacts may occur.
Mining
Mining environments include confined spaces, uneven surfaces and structures that can lead to lateral impacts.
Manufacturing and Industrial Maintenance
Workers performing maintenance or operating near equipment and structures may be exposed to impact risks from multiple directions.What CSA Z94.1 Requires
In Canada, the selection of protective headwear must comply with CSA Z94.1, which outlines:
- Helmet classifications (Type 1 and Type 2)
- Electrical protection classes
- Class E: Provides protection against high-voltage electrical conductors, up to 20,000 volts.
- Class G: Provides protection against low-voltage electrical hazards, up to 2,200 volts.
- Class C: Does not provide electrical protection. Often selected for its increased ventilation and comfort.
- Performance and testing requirements
- Identification and labeling requirements
Employers must ensure that the selected protective equipment is appropriate for the hazards identified through a workplace hazard assessment, in accordance with occupational health and safety regulations.
The choice between Type 1 and Type 2 helmets should therefore be guided by the specific risks present on site or within the facility.When Should You Consider Type 2 Helmets?
Organizations may consider Type 2 helmets when workers are exposed to:
- Work at heights
- Risk of falls or loss of balance
- Confined or restricted environments
- Presence of nearby structures or equipment
- Impact risks from multiple directions
In these environments, helmets designed to protect against both vertical and lateral impacts can offer enhanced protection.
A proper hazard assessment remains essential to determine the most appropriate equipment, and our team is here to support you.Supporting an Effective Safety Program
Safety helmets should always be part of a broader occupational health and safety program, including:
- Hazard identification and assessment
- Worker training
- Equipment inspection and maintenance
- Safe work procedures
