Key points

The following key points should be followed for the use of head protection:

DO

• Do use an adjustable chinstrap, if fitted, to make sure the helmet does not fall off whilst you are working;
• Do clean the inside of the helmet and clean or replace sweatbands regularly;
• Do check regularly that any damage to the outside of the helmet is no more than shallow scratches or grazes and the internal harness is not damaged or deformed;
• Do throw head protection away after significant impact by a fixed or falling object. Head protection is unfit for use if the outside is deeply scratched, worn or deformed, the harness is damaged or deformed or it is beyond its useable protective life. As a general rule safety helmets should be replaced every three years;
• Do wear the helmet so that the brim is level when the head is upright.

DON’T

• Don’t wear it sloping up or down as this may significantly reduce the protection it can provide;
• Don’t wear head protection back to front. It will not protect you if you do;
• Don’t customise head protection, for example, by making your own ventilation holes, painting it, marking it or put stickers on it;
• Don’t wear a baseball-style bump cap where there is a risk of falling objects. Wear an industrial safety helmet instead.