Different hard hat models might be up for debate, but your safety is not. This is why it is so important to make sure you and your workers are equipped with proper PPE that is backed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). They set the criteria that dictates what type of hard hats are needed on different jobsites. This ensures that workers are protected from their surroundings and any potential occupational hazards. Depending on the durability, dielectric protection, impact resistance, and comfortability, it can sometimes be difficult to decide which hard hat is necessary for your job. Ohio Power Tool stocks a variety of hard hats, but the most popular styles are Type 1 hard hats, which are made of either carbon fiber or resin. Both are durable styles that are guaranteed to provide long-lasting protection, but there are a few key differences to consider before choosing between the two.
Carbon Fiber Hard Hats
Class and Conductivity
Carbon Fiber hard hats meet ANSI Type 1, Class C standards for protection. This means that they do not protect from electrical conductivity, but they do protect the wearer from impact blows to the top of the head. Carbon fiber is a super durable material that is great for resisting impact while still being light-weight and comfortable.
Resistance
Carbon Fiber Hard Hats are very structurally solid and resistant to fatigue. They are reliable options because they resist dents, scratches, and breaks. Many carbon fiber hats have a durable carbon fiber shell paired with a resin layer to increase its strength even further. These hats can withstand impact without weighing you down, making them comfortable enough to wear all day without adding strain to your neck and back.
Uses
These types of hard hats are a great option for a variety of different applications. Although they won’t protect the wearer from electrical hazards, they work well in factories, warehouses, and construction yards where that is not a concern. Carbon fiber hats are not only known for their durability, they also have a sleek design that a lot of users enjoy. These are often used by the military and NASA because they are impact resistant and stylish.
Price
These are a more expensive option because they are very labor intensive to manufacture. The pricing for a carbon fiber hard hat usually runs from $110 to $160. We recommend the Lift DAX Fifty 50 Carbon Fiber Full Brim Hard Hat (White/Black) (HDF50C-19WC) for a quality full brim carbon fiber option, or the Lift DAX Carbon Fiber Cap Brim Hard Hat (Matte Black) (HDCM-17KG) for a front brim version. These are new additions to Ohio Power Tool and have been fan favorites so far.
Resin Hard Hats
Class and Conductivity
Resin hard hats fall under ANSI Type 1, Class G standards because they can provide dielectric protection up to 2,200 volts. These are also super strong to protect the wearer from impact on the jobsite. While these can help protect from low voltage conductors, it is still recommended that workers wear additional PPE to protect them below the head. Resin is a naturally non-conductive and sturdy material, so it is perfect for jobsites where there might be exposure to electric currents.
Resistance
The resin material used to make these hard hats is a synthetic polymer that is laminated—often with fiberglass—to create an extremely hard shell that far exceeds the ANSI standards. It is lightweight like the carbon fiber versions, so these hard hats will be comfortable throughout your entire workday. Resin hard hats are some of the most common styles of hard hats available because they are super versatile and have a comfortable suspension system.
Uses
Similar to the carbon fiber hard hats, these are ANSI Type 1, so they can protect from impact force to the head. The protection from 2,200 volts of electricity makes these suitable for carpenters, electricians, linemen, plumbers, pipefitters, timber/log cutters, and welders. Additionally, they can be used in areas where there is danger of objects falling from above. People who work below others who are using tools or work under a conveyor belt are at an increased risk of being struck by falling objects, so they should be wearing proper head protection.
Price
In terms of price, resin hard hats are less expensive than carbon fiber hard hats, but they are still on the higher end when compared to other forms of head protection. These typically run from $75-$80. Lift has a great range of resin hard hats in various colors and caps styles. A few of our best sellers are the DAX White Fiber Resin Full Brim (HDF-15WG) and the DAX Natural Carbon Fiber Cap Brim Hard Hat (HDFC-17NG) for either full brim or front brim resin options.
Before purchasing hard hats for you or your employees, make sure that they are compliant with the ANSI standards for your profession. Check out our full range of hard hat options here. If you have any questions about any of our hard hats or other PPE items, the Ohio Power Tool team is here to help! Give us a call at 800-242-4424, email us at sales@ohiopowertool.com, or leave a comment below for assistance. To be the first to know about new products and deals, subscribe to our e-newsletter and follow us on social media!
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