OSHA Recommends Helmets Instead of Hard Hats for Construction
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), thousands of US construction workers have lost their lives over the past few years as a direct result of Traumatic Head Injuries (TBIs). Perhaps in response to these worrying statistics, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has announced a radical shift away from construction hard hats. Instead, OSHA is now recommending that all construction workers wear helmets. What exactly is the difference between a helmet and a hard hat? Will it even make a difference? Perhaps most importantly, what can you do if you have suffered a construction injury in Tampa?
OSHA Believes Helmets Offer Better Protection Against Head Injuries
On December 11th of 2023, OSHA announced one of its biggest moves in recent memory. Although the hard hat is one of the most iconic pieces of construction equipment in the United States, workers may soon ditch this safety equipment in favor of something new. In fact, they might have no choice but to upgrade, as OSHA will likely enforce this transition going forward.
According to an official press release from OSHA, the move will “protect agency employees from head injuries better.” OSHA points out that the hard hat was first adopted on a wide scale all the way back in the 1960s, and they believe that this piece of safety equipment has run its course. OSHA points to several issues with average hard hats, including:
- Minimal side impact protection
- Lack of chin straps
- Lack of built-in goggles
- Lack of face shield attachments
- Lack of built-in hearing protection
- Lack of built-in communication systems
As of right now, OSHA is only enforcing its shift toward helmets among its own employees. That being said, the shift could soon spread to other industries, and OSHA is already urging all employers within the construction and gas industries to adopt helmets as soon as possible. In addition, they recommend helmets for anyone working in high-temperature environments and those carrying out electrical work.
OSHA states these employers should “make safety and health a core value in their workplaces,” while promising to “lead by example” and “embrace the evolution of head protection.”
Will This Make a Difference?
The widespread adoption of better safety systems is always a positive sign in Florida. That being said, even the most advanced helmet cannot stop high-impact injuries, crush injuries, electrocution, and a range of other hazards construction workers face every day.
Find a Qualified, Experienced Construction Accident Lawyer in Tampa
If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced Tampa construction accident lawyer, look no further than the Franco Law Firm. With our help, you can strive for the best possible outcomes after suffering a head injury at a construction site. While the shift toward helmets may be encouraging for some, this move comes far too late to save all those who have already been disabled or killed by TBIs. To pursue the compensation you need and deserve, book your consultation today.
Sources:
osha.gov/news/newsreleases/trade/12112023
ohsonline.com/articles/2023/12/13/osha-upgrades-employee-head-protection-with-modern-safety-helmets.aspx?m=1
