Head Protection: Bump Caps and Safety Helmets
Regulation 4 of the Personal Protection Equipment at Work Regulations (1992) and the Construction (Head Protection) Regulations (1989) requires that Head Protection be used in hazardous areas. A full assessment of the hazards must be undertaken to determine the suitability of Head Protection supplied.
Safety Helmets (approved to EN397) must be used when there is a danger of falling objects.
Bump Caps can be worn when there is a need to protect against accidental bumping of the head (eg. overhead piping or other fixed obstacles).
It is the wearer's responsibility to inspect their safety helmet regularly. Any helmet showing more than superficial abrasions or scuffing to the shell should be replaced. Also, although there is no legislation governing the expected lifespan of safety helmets, it is strongly recommended that they be replaced every five years. Excessive wear and tear can drastically reduce this period. Helmets that have been abused, cut or scratched, should be discarded immediately. The cost of new head protection from Arco is far less than the cost of compensation for injury - or for an employee who may pay with their life because of inadequate protection
