Ultimate Guide To Head Protection
The purpose of head protection is to safeguard yourself or your employees against any type of danger that may arise in the workplace. It is one of the most important pieces of personal protective gear (PPE) available and should be chosen carefully. This ultimate guide will provide you with all the necessary information needed when it comes to head protection.
Why Is Head Protection Important?
According to Life Healthcare, approximately 89,000 cases of traumatic brain injuries are reported in South Africa each year. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are caused by a blow to the head or a penetrating injury.
Unfortunately, hazardous workplace environments can contribute to these statistics. Objects falling from above, or head-to-head contact with other workers or objects, can cause serious injuries. Therefore, using head protection is essential for any work environment to prevent accidents and injuries.
Types Of Head Protection
The type of head protection you choose will depend on the type of work you are doing, as well as the kind of environment you are working in. All head protection should meet certain safety standards, so make sure to check for this before making a purchase.
Safety Helmets
Safety helmets are the most common type of head protection used in workplaces. It is designed to protect yourself or your employees from objects falling from above and from impacts to the head. Safety helmets are not the same as hard hats, and it's important to notice the difference. Safety helmets provide a better fit around the head and neck, thus increasing protection.
An excellent example of a safety helmet is the uvex pheos alpine safety helmet. This safety helmet meets the safety standards EN 397 and EN 12492, which makes it ideal for industrial or climbing environments. This helmet protects against shock and penetration, providing you with a high level of protection.
Bump Caps
Bump caps are an ideal head protection option in areas where helmets are not compulsory. It is designed to protect yourself or your employees against small impacts such as bumping into an object. Bump caps are also very sporty and stylish, making them an ideal addition to any workwear.
Examples of excellent bump caps are the uvex u-cap sport and the uvex u-cap sport vent. Both of these bump caps meet the safety standard EN 812:2012 and provide protection against sharp objects or shock absorption. The only difference between the two is the outer cap material. The u-cap sport's material is textile, while the u-cap sport vent is fabric/mesh.
How To Choose The Right Head Protection
With the different types of head protection available, it can be difficult to know which one is best suited for you and your workplace. Here are some tips on how to choose the right head protection:
Analyse the working environment:
Depending on the work environment, different types of head protection are more suitable. For instance, safety helmets are recommended for industrial environments, while bump caps may be better suited for less hazardous working conditions.
Check the standards and compliance:
It is essential to check that the head protection safety standards and compliances are met. Most head protection items have safety standards printed on the helmet or box; it is important to ensure these are duly noted before making a purchase.
Consider comfort:
Headgear should not only be protective but also comfortable to wear, as this will allow workers to feel secure and safe while performing their tasks. Check for adjustable straps, breathable materials, sweat-absorbent fabrics and a good fit.
Top Head Protection In South Africa
At uvex, we are proud to offer the highest quality of protective headgear in South Africa. We have a wide range of products that meet all the safety standards and compliances, including bump caps and safety helmets.
If you want more information, don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to provide you with the best and safest head protection for your working environment.