Discover the Top Construction Helmets of 2024: A Comprehensive Review

Ensuring the safety of construction workers is a top priority at any job site, and one of the most crucial components of that safety is the construction helmet. As we look ahead to 2024, several helmets have gained prominence for their innovative features and high standards of protection. In this article, we'll explore four standout type 2 helmets for the upcoming year, while also guiding you through the process of selecting the perfect construction helmet for your specific needs. 

The Best Construction Helmets to Buy in the Upcoming Year

Zero Pinnacle Zertec

The Zero Pinnacle Zertec helmet stands as a pinnacle of safety for professionals engaged in work at height across various commercial trades. This construction helmet stands out for its cutting-edge Zertec impact-absorbing technology. The Zertec material, a patented innovation, is designed to absorb and disperse impact energy more effectively than traditional materials. The multi-point adjustable suspension system ensures a personalized fit, and the integrated ventilation channels contribute to wearer comfort. The addition of reflective elements enhances safety in various work environments.

Key features: 

• Material: ABS Advanced Thermo Material Shell exterior, high-density EPS polystyrene, integrated Koroyd co-polymer engineered core.
• Suspension system: Multi-point adjustable suspension for a secure and comfortable fit.
• Ventilation: Integrated ventilation channels for improved airflow.
• Additional features: Reflective elements for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.
• Certifications: EN 12492, EN397, and ANSI Z89.1:2004. Class C. 
• Integrated technologies: Koroyd and Twiceme HTH-Technology.

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‍Studson SHK-1 Vented

The Studson SHK-1 Vented has become a trailblazer in the North American market by paving the way as the first industrial safety helmet to utilize head-protection components used in gravity sports. The rotational padding of this construction helmet is unique in that it is the first in the industry with silicone shearing pads that allow for rotational energy absorption upon oblique impacts. The innovative padding of this construction helmet is equipped with a silver antimicrobial fiber finish to reduce bacteria. This safety helmet combines durability with breathability. The optional accessory slots provide versatility for additional safety gear for instance the SHK-1 Half Shield w/Mechanism, the Ear Defender, and the SHK-1 Headlamp.

Key features: 

• Material: EPS liner and ABS shell for ultimate durability.
• Suspension system: Fidlock magnetic buckle enclosure with adjustable nylon 4-point strap.
• Ventilation: Vented design for enhanced breathability. 
• Additional features: Optional accessory slots for face shields or hearing protection.
• Certifications: ANSI Z89.1- 2014 and EN 12492:2012. Class C. 
• Integrated technologies: Koroyd and Twiceme HTH-Technology.

Studson SHK-1 Non-Vented

The Studson SHK-1 Non-Vented helmet emerges as an excellent choice for individuals working with electricity, offering a blend of safety and practicality tailored to the unique hazards of this environment. The solid, non-vented design provides maximum protection, crucial when dealing with electrical work where the risk of arc flashes or electrical contact is present. This non-vented model reduces exposure to high-voltage conductors and offers up to 20KV of protection, whilst still offering the same trailblazing rotational padding as its vented counterpart. 

Key features: 

• Material: EPS liner and ABS shell for ultimate durability. 
• Suspension system: Fidlock magnetic buckle enclosure with adjustable nylon 4-point strap.
• Additional features: optional accessory slots for face shields or hearing protection. 
• Certifications: ANSI Z89.1-2014 and EN 12492:2012. Class E.
• Integrated technologies: Koroyd and Twiceme HTH-Technology.

Guardio Armet

The Guardio Armet has proven to be a standout in the realm of protective headgear. Engineered with a high-impact ABS shell, it provides unparalleled durability, instilling confidence in the wearer within challenging work environments. The four-point adjustable suspension system in this construction helmet ensures a secure and customized fit, offering comfort for prolonged use. This construction helmet was designed to be compatible with other accessories in the Guardio Armet series such as the Theia Visor-series and the VisorFlex Headlamp as well as hearing protection from Guardio, 3M, and Hellberg Safety. 

Key features: 

• Material: ABS EPP, Nylon, PC, Polyester, Silicone and Stainless Steel.
• Suspension system: Four-point adjustable suspension for comfort and stability.
• Ventilation: Unique ventilation design for increased airflow.
• Additional features: Chin strap with quick-release buckle for easy removal. 
• Certifications: EN397:2012. 
• Integrated technologies: MIPS and Twiceme HTH-Technology.

What to Look for When Buying a Construction Safety Helmet

Prioritize Safety Standards

When investing in a construction helmet, it is crucial to adhere to the rigorous safety standards for PPE Equipment, to ensure the effectiveness of the helmet in providing optimal protection. Regulatory bodies such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) in the United States and ANSI (American National Standards Institute), establish strict guidelines to ensure the quality and performance of safety helmets. It is imperative to choose a construction helmet that meets or exceeds these standards, as this certification indicates that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing and complies with industry-specific safety requirements. Checking for certifications not only ensures legal compliance but also instills confidence that the selected helmet has been designed and manufactured to withstand the potential hazards of the work environment, ultimately safeguarding the wearer against head injuries.

Safety Technology

Twiceme HTH-Technology

Twiceme’s Help the Helpers Technology is an integrated technology based on secure NFC and encourages bystanders to become helpers in the event of an accident. By tapping the NFC antenna of your phone onto the Twiceme symbol on the helmet, bystanders can access the medical information of the wearer, alert ICE contacts/emergency personnel, and send the precise location of the helmet-wearer. Learn more at twiceme.com/emergency.
It also allows for preventative measures, such as inspecting the health of the equipment, product inspection, and informing about safety measures to customers. Read more at twiceme.com/non-emergency.

Integrated Impact Technology

MIPS

A technology integrated into helmets, that is designed to reduce rotational motion to the head during oblique impacts. The MIPS design incorporates a low-friction layer between the outer shell of the helmet and the inner padding. During an angled impact, this layer allows a controlled rotation of the outer shell relative to the head, mimicking the brain’s own protective mechanisms. This rotation helps to redirect and disperse rotational energy, reducing the strain on the brain and lowering the risk of certain types of head injuries, such as concussions. 

Koroyd

An impact technology built into helmets that consists of a network of small cylindrical tubes or a honeycomb-like structure. Upon impact, the Koroyd structure compresses rapidly and in a controlled manner, crumpling the tubes. This controlled deformation serves to absorb and disperse the energy generated by the impact, reducing the force transmitted to the head. The collapsible nature of the tubes allows for a more gradual speed reduction, which can be beneficial in reducing the risk of injury.

Comfort

Comfort is a vital aspect to consider when purchasing a construction helmet, as the willingness of the workers to consistently wear their helmet is closely tied to how comfortable it feels during an extended period of time. A well-designed and comfortable helmet minimizes the likelihood of user discomfort, reducing instances of users removing or adjusting their helmets in hazardous work environments. This not only ensures continuous protection but also fosters a positive safety culture on the job site. A comfortable helmet with features like adjustable suspension systems and ventilation enhances wearer satisfaction, promoting long-term adherence to safety protocols.

Summary

As we venture into 2024, these four construction helmets offer a blend of top-of-the-line technology, comfort, and durability. The Zero Pinnacle Zertec impresses with its patented Zertec material, which absorbs and disperses impact with greater efficiency than traditional materials. The Studson SHK-1 helmets provide versatility for different work environments. The Guardio Armet combines high-impact resistance with thoughtful design features. Ultimately, the choice among these construction helmets depends on the specific needs of the helmet-wearer and the challenges of the construction job at hand. 

FAQ - Construction Helmets:

Which type of construction helmet is the safest?

• Type 2 helmets.

What is the best construction helmet in 2023?

• Read this article to find the best construction helmet in 2023.

What is the purpose of a hard hat?

• Hard hats provide protection to the head in hazardous work environments by safeguarding the wearer from falling objects, impact from fixed objects, electrical shock, and accidental collisions.

What are the three main classes of hard hats?

• Class G (General) hard hats provide insulation up to 2 200 Volts.
• Class E (Electrical) hard hats provide insulation up to 20 000 Volts.
• Class C (Conductive) hard hats are not intended for electrical protection.

What is the meaning of hard hat colors?

• Hard hat colors help identify the worker's position, responsibilities, and/or the training level of the construction worker. It is important to note that hard hat colors are not a legal requirement from OSHA or ANSI.