Understanding how PPE works can result in safer workspaces.
According to the Commonly Used Statistics page on the OSHA website regarding the top 10 most frequently cited standards, the construction industry led the way in five of the top 10, including (1) fall protection, (3) ladders, (5) scaffolding, (6) fall protection training, and (8) eye and face protection. In building construction (NAICS 236) alone, there were 2,742 citations given and 1,191 inspections, for a total penalty cost of $9,586,100.
Don’t worry. The construction industry isn’t the lone wolf for OSHA violations. General industries of all types are guilty of the same infractions for worker safety. So, a lot of what we’re going to discuss in this article applies to a wide range of industries, not just construction.
We’re going to cover two of the top safety concerns: head and eye protection, and fall protection and training. Let’s start with head and eye protection.
Head Protection Basics and Beyond
Jobsite head protection comes in two flavors: hard hats and safety helmets. The most visible difference between the two is the brim or lack thereof. Hard hats have brims, either partial or full perimeter, whereas safety helmets are fairly brimless and are “cut out” around the ears. Safety helmet design is similar to climbing helmets. Safety helmets are normally sold with a four-point anchored chin strap. With hard hats, a chin strap is more likely an optional accessory.
Both hard hats and safety helmets have a place in construction. Because of their snugger design, helmets are great for confined space areas or any job where close encounters with a brim would be problematic. The brim on a hard hat, however, serves several purposes. Not only does it help shade the wearer’s eyes when working outside, but it also protects the worker’s face from falling debris. A full brim hard hat deflects debris from all sides.
This article originally appeared in the October 1, 2022 issue of Occupational Health & Safety.
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