Revised American National Standard for Head Protection: ANSI Z89.1-2003

This standard provides performance and testing requirements for industrial helmets, commonly known as hard hats. It is a revision of ANSI Z89.1-1997, which established the types and classes of protective helmets, depending on the type of hazard encountered. It includes specifications for helmets designed to offer protection from lateral impact, or top-only impact, giving employers and users the flexibility to specify the helmet that best meets the needs of their specific workplace.

ANSI Z89.1-2003 was prepared by the members of ISEA's Head Protection Group as a revision to ANSI Z89.1-1997, and approved through the ANSI canvass method with input from users, government agencies and safety experts.

Industrial head protective helmets meeting the requirements of this standard are classified as Type I for top protection, or Type II for lateral impact protection. Both types are tested for impact attenuation and penetration resistance. Type II helmet performance requirements include criteria for impact energy attenuation from impacts from the front, back and sides as well as the top; off-center penetration resistance, and chin strap retention.

The three classes indicate the helmets electrical insulation rating. Class G (general) helmets are tested at 2200 volts, Class E (electrical) are tested to withstand 20,000 volts, and Class C (conductive) provide no electrical protection.

Changes in this revision of the standard are minor compared to the 1997 version. Redundancy in the previous test methods has been eliminated, with only the most severe anvil test retained. In an effort to recognize state-of-the-art materials performance and technology, some physical requirements for helmet components that did not provide added user value, or limited design or performance, were removed.

Copies of the standard are available from the ISEA. The single-copy cost is $32, or $25 for ISEA member companies. Discounted rates for bulk orders are offered. For additional information, contact Technical Director Janice Bradley, or Technical Projects Coordinator Cristine Fargo. To order online, go to: http://www.safetyequipment.org/order.html.