The New Standard for Head Protection: Why It’s Time to Switch to Type II Safety Helmets

The New Standard for Head Protection: Why It’s Time to Switch to Type II Safety Helmets

Introduction

Across the country, type II safety helmets are rapidly taking the lead as the new norm for head protection on construction sites.

It could be time to switch if your crew is still using standard hard hats. The distinction between a Type I and Type II helmet can mean the difference between a near-miss and a serious injury as job-site risks change and safety regulations become more stringent.

What’s Changing, And Why It Matters

Type I hard hats, which are primarily meant to guard against hits from above, such as falling equipment or debris, have been used by industrial and construction workers for decades.

However, modern workplaces pose additional risks. Type I helmets aren't designed to withstand the risks that workers face, such as side impacts, equipment accidents, and slips and falls.

Type II helmets can help; new safety helmets offer full-coverage safety that satisfies contemporary workplace requirements by providing impact protection from both the top and the sides..

💡 Pro Tip: What distinguishes a Type II helmet is not the chin strap.  The multidirectional impact absorption technology integrated into the liner and shell makes a distinction by providing protection against both lateral and vertical impacts.

Why the Switch to Type II Matters for Compliance

Many contractors are ahead of the curve by using ANSI Z89.1 Type II helmets today, while OSHA and ANSI continue to push for stricter head protection regulations.

Making the change early helps ensure:

- Stronger protection against real-world hazards
- Fewer jobsite injuries and downtime
- A proactive approach to OSHA compliance
- A safer, more confident workforce

The goal of the transition is to provide workers with the protection they actually require, not only to comply with rules.

STUDSON®: “Setting a New Benchmark in Safety”

If you’re looking for innovation and premium protection, STUDSON® is one of the most advanced names in modern safety helmets.

Their helmets feature cutting-edge materials like Koroyd® impact absorption, EPS foam, and RIPS™ rotational impact protection, combining bike-helmet-level safety with a lightweight, comfortable fit.

A standout option is the STUDSON SHK-1 Type II Safety Helmet, designed to protect against both top and side impacts while maintaining all-day comfort.

• STUDSON proves that high-performance safety gear can look sharp, feel great, and deliver next-level protection — all in one design.

Pyramex®: Trusted Protection, Built for the Real World

Pyramex® offers teams dependable, reasonably priced, and work-ready Type II protection.

A perfect option is the Pyramex® Ridgeline XR7 Safety Helmet — designed with:

• A durable ABS/PC shell for top and side impact protection
  

• 6-point suspension system for even shock distribution
  

• Adjustable fit and optional chin strap for secure comfort
  

• A sleek, low-profile design that workers actually want to wear
  
  

Any crew may easily and affordably comply with Type II regulations thanks to Pyramex's strategy, which enables you to raise safety requirements without going over budget.

Don’t Fall Behind, Get Ahead of the New Standard

The switch to Type II helmets is not merely a fad; rather, it represents the head protection of the future on the job site.

Upgrading your equipment immediately guarantees that your staff is OSHA-ready and well protected for any problems the site presents, especially when contractors and safety managers embrace new regulations.

Explore our full lineup of Pyramex® safety helmets and protective gear at SafetyVestsAndMore.com, and make sure your crew is equipped with the protection they deserve.

Key Takeaway

The next level of jobsite safety is provided by Type II helmets, which provide protection from the top and sides.  It's time to update and keep up with OSHA's changing rules, whether you go with Pyramex's proven dependability or STUDSON's superior innovation.