Anatomy of a Hard Hat
As per regulation requirements, hard hats, or protective helmets, must consist of a shell and suspension system. The shell is the outside of a hard hat. It is rounded in shape to protect the crown of the head. A suspension system is used to prevent the hat from falling off and is usually in the form of a headband placed inside the hard hat. When used properly, the shell and suspension system work symbiotically to absorb the force from a strike to the head. Hard hats must be made out of water-resistant and slow-burning material.
Accessories that can be fitted into hard hats include:
- a retaining strap is worn under the chin or at the nape of the neck
- a bracket and cable clip for the attachment of a lamp
- an eye shield, face shield or welding shield
- a wide brim for additional shade in hot climates
- neck flaps for protection against weather, molten metal splash, hot substances and similar
- a lining for cold conditions
- earmuffs.
