Photo: Virginia Tech Helmet Lab
Blacksburg, VA — The Virginia Tech Helmet Lab has published its inaugural ratings for several construction safety helmets.
Researchers assessed 17 different helmets’ ability to “reduce linear and rotational head acceleration” during a range of falls considered to be “severe but survivable.”
The ratings use a five-star system. Helmets earning more stars are associated with lower concussion and skull fracture risk.
“We recommend four- and five-star-rated helmets for workers exposed to fall hazards,” the Helmet Lab says on its ratings website.
A press release from the university adds: “The results show that shifting to Type II helmets (from Type I head protection) on average will reduce fall-related concussion risk by 34% and the risk of skull fracture by 65%, with the lab’s top-rated helmets showing risk reductions of 48% and 77%, respectively.”
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data for 2023 (the most recent available), the construction industry accounted for 47% of all fatal slips, trips and falls, as well as 20% of all workplace deaths.
Helmet Lab Director Steve Rowson stressed the importance of proper helmet fit and using chin straps to keep helmets in place in case of a fall.
“The program will continue to update its ratings as new helmets are tested and developed by the industry and hopes to soon expand the testing to include data on helmet performance when struck by objects,” the release states.
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Original article published by Safety+Health an NSC publication