Safety helmets are an essential part of your PPE if you work in an environment where your head is at risk of impact injury or other hazards. Like most things, if you look after your safety helmet and treat it right, then you’ll get the most out of it. This guide will help you to take care of your safety helmet by inspecting it regularly and storing it properly.
It is important that you regularly take the time to inspect your safety helmet for cracks, dents or other signs of damage. If the shell or suspension of your safety helmet are showing signs of wear or damage, then get rid of it. If your safety helmet sustains an impact and does not show any visible signs of damage, it is still better to dispose of it completely.
You should clean your safety helmet regularly with soap and warm water. Do not use any harsh solvents that may affect the integrity of the plastic shell. Always store your safety helmet out of direct sunlight.
SETON says: “It is recognised best practice that hard hats are replaced every three years from date of issue, or five years from date of manufacture, at the very least.” This advice is regardless of whether the helmet is showing signs of damage. Your individual work environment may also shorten your safety helmets lifespan.
If you work in extreme conditions, such as being exposed to high temperatures or chemicals, then you may need to replace your helmet as often as every two years. When a safety helmet is exposed to certain conditions for prolonged periods, it may become brittle and unsafe to use. Always check your safety helmet against a newer one to determine the flexibility and check if it needs to be replaced.
If you are thinking about customising your safety helmet, remember that solvents can weaken the plastic shell and so avoid using any harsh paint or markers. You might also want to use stickers to customise your helmet, but unless they are provided by the helmet manufacturer then you should avoid adding stickers too. Never try to engrave the shell or modify the suspension of your safety helmet.
You can make your safety helmet more comfortable by accessorising with a range of thermal liners, helmet liners and chin straps. Never wear another hat under your safety helmet as it can interfere with the fit and ability to absorb impact.
At Work & Wear Direct we supply head protection and safety helmets from well-known brands including Beeswift head protection and JSP safety helmets.
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