Type I vs Type II helmets: Which is safer for construction?

Construction helmets reduce head injury risk, but no helmet can prevent accidents. California crews work at height, carry heavy gear and face flying debris all the time. Protecting the head should be the top priority since a fall or strike can cause a brain injury and may alter a person’s life forever.

Helmet types and what ratings mean

Manufacturers and testers measure helmets for linear and rotational impacts. The ANSI Z89.1 standard divides helmets into Type I for top impacts and Type II for top and lateral impacts. Recent STAR-style testing shows some helmets cut concussion and skull fracture risk more than older models.

STAR is a lab rating that combines tests of straight-on (linear) and twisting (rotational) impacts. Lower STAR scores mean better protection. Scores in published tests run from about 0.5 (best) up to 8–10 (worst). Meanwhile, hard hats usually land around 1–6. In direct STAR-style comparisons, the best modern helmets that reduce rotational force typically cut the estimated risk of concussion or skull fracture by about 20–70% versus older or poorer models (most commonly about 30–50%), though exact numbers change depending on the test methods used.

How do you maximize your helmet’s protection?

Helmets can protect you if you wear them properly. To make sure it does its job, remember the following:

• Check your helmet fit and suspension daily.

• Replace helmets after strikes or visible damage.

• Use helmets rated for your job hazards such as falls or struck-by risks.

• Report worn or inadequate PPE to your supervisor in writing.

• Request to upgrade your Type I hard hat with a Type II depending on the nature of your tasks.

• Keep receipts and maintenance logs for your issued PPE.

These steps will keep help improve your safety in a hazardous workplace.

When to consider next steps

Cal/OSHA enforces head‑protection rules under Title 8 (federal OSHA: 29 C.F.R. §1926.100). If your employer ignores requests for proper helmets or fails to fix repeated hazards, escalate to your site safety officer or file a complaint with OSHA. If you suffer a serious injury, document the hazard, get medical care, report it through company channels and consult an attorney experienced in construction safety and traumatic brain injury (TBI) to review records and explain legal options.