ANSI Z89.1-1986
ANSI Z89.1-1986 separates protective helmets into different types and classes.
The standard identifies Type 1 and Type 2 helmets. Type 1 helmets incorporate a full brim (the brim fully encircles the dome of the hat); Type 2 helmets have no encircling brim, but may include a short bill on the front (similar to a baseball cap).
In terms of electrical performance, ANSI Z89.1-1986 recognizes three classes:
Class A Helmets are intended to reduce the force of impact of falling objects and to reduce the danger of contact with exposed low-voltage electrical conductors. For certification, sample shells are proof-tested at 2,200 volts of electrical charge.
Class B Helmets are intended to reduce the force of impact of falling objects and to reduce the danger of contact with exposed high-voltage electrical conductors. Sample shells are proof-tested at 20,000 volts.
Class C Helmets are intended to reduce the force of impact of falling objects, but offer no electrical protection.
Note: The voltages stated in Classes A and B are not intended to be an indication of the voltage at which the headgear protects the wearer.
In addition to electrical protection, hard hats are also tested for impact and penetration resistance from blows to the top of the head, flammability resistance, and water absorption. The rigorous testing requirements are described in detail within the standard.
Every hard hat conforming to the requirements of ANSI Z89.1-1986 must be appropriately marked to verify its compliance. The following information must be marked inside the hat:
•The manufacturer's name
•The legend, "ANSI Z89.1-1986"
•The class designation (A, B or C)
ANSI Z89.1-1997
All hard hats in accordance with this standard must meet or exceed either Type I or Type II impact requirements. In addition to type classifications, all hard hats are further classified as meeting Class G, Class E, or Class C electrical requirements. Below we outline each of these types and electrical classes.
All hard hats are shipped with an ANSI certification label on the inside of the hard hat’s shell. This label will clearly identify what type and class standards it was designed to meet. If this label is missing or cannot be read it is recommended that it should be replaced.
Hard Hat Impact Types
Type I Hard Hats
Type I hard hats are intended to reduce the force of impact resulting for a blow only to the top of the head. All hard hats, except bump caps, listed on the Cooper Safety website are Type I (top impact) hard hats.
Type II Hard Hats
Type II hard hats are intended to reduce the force of impact resulting from a blow which may be received off center or to the top of the head. A Type II hard hat typically is lined on the inside with thick high density foam.
Electrical Classes
Class G (General)
Class G hard hats are intended to reduce the danger of contact exposure to low voltage conductors. Test samples are proof tested at 2200 volts (phase to ground). However, this voltage is not intended as an indication of the voltage at which the hard hat protects the wearer. Please note: Class G hard hats were formerly known as Class A.
Class E (Electrical)
Class E hard hats are intended to reduce the danger of exposure to high voltage conductors. Test samples are proof-tested at 20,000 volts (phase to ground). However, this voltage is not intended as an indication of the voltage at which the helmet protects the wearer. Please note: Class E hard hats were formerly known as Class B.
Class C (Conductive)
Class C hard hats are not intended to provide protection against contact with electrical conductors.
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.135(a)(1) states, "Each affected employee shall wear protective helmets when working in areas where there is a potential for injury to the head from falling objects." The standard also covers conditions where electrical hazards are present. 1910.135(a)(2) states, "Protective helmets designed to reduce electrical shock hazard shall be worn by each such affected employee when near exposed electrical conductors which could contact the head."
ANSI Z89.1-2003
ANSI also published a revision to the Z89.1-1997 standard in 2003. The most significant changes from the 1997 version were made to harmonize with other national standards that test and evaluate equipment performance. In addition, many physical requirements for helmet components that do not provide added user value or that limited design or performance had been removed.
ANSI Z89.1-2009
ANSI published a revision in January of 2009. The significant changes from the 2003 version are three non-mandatory tests and are easy to understand. Each of these tests if elected to be tested by the manufacturer will display three new markings on the helmet.
The three optional test criteria are:
Reverse Donning: Helmets marked with a "reverse donning arrow" can be worn frontward or backward in accordance with the manufacturer's wearing instructions. They pass all testing requirements, whether worn frontward or backward.
Lower Temperature: Helmets marked with a "LT" indicates that the hard hat meets all testing requirements of the standard when preconditioned at a temperature of -30°C (-22°F).
High Visibility: Helmets marked with a "HV" indicates that the hard hat meets all testing requirements of the standard for high visibility colors. This includes tests for chromaticity and luminescence.
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