Construction helmet service life
How do you know when your construction helmet needs replacing?
A construction helmet is an important safety tool for anyone working in construction or other industries where there is a risk of head injury. It is therefore essential that a construction helmet is in good condition and complies with safety standards. But what is the service life of a construction helmet and when is it time to replace a construction helmet?
In most cases, the service life of a construction helmet will be around about three to five years are. However, this does depend on several factors, such as how intensively the helmet is used, how it is stored when not in use, and how well it is maintained.
Moreover, the service life of a construction helmet also depends on the brand and model. Investing is quality also positively affects the service life of a construction helmet.
So, on average, a construction helmet lasts a maximum of five years. Like all PPE (personal protective equipment), the helmet can show wear over time. This can lead to less protection for the head. We therefore strongly recommend replacing a construction helmet when it reaches the end of its service life.
How do you know when it's time to replace your construction helmet?
There are a number of factors that can lead to having to buy a new construction helmet:
- External damage;
- Ageing;
- Lost or stolen.
External damage
If a construction helmet has visible damage, such as scratches, dents or cracks, it is most likely time to replace it with a new one. This damage can affect the helmet's protective ability.
Aging
A construction helmet has an average lifespan of about three to five years. If the helmet is that old (or even older), it is high time for replacement.
Lost or stolen:
Is a construction helmet lost or stolen? Then get a replacement immediately. Arrange this even before you start work, as you should always wear a helmet when working in an environment where there is a risk of head injury.
Construction helmet life; these factors are of invlied
Most construction helmets are made of hard plastic or plastic. If a helmet is exposed too often to hard knocks or falls, its fabric value may decrease. This makes the helmet less effective in protecting the wearer.
Storage
Moreover, the service life can also be reduced if the construction helmet is not stored properly when not in use. If a helmet is exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity, it can lead to damage and reduced service life. We therefore recommend storing the helmet in a dry, dark and cool place.
Maintenance
Keep the helmet clean. But take care; do not use solvents or abrasives when doing so. Can you no longer get your hard hat clean? Then that is a sign that the helmet needs replacing.
Summary; The service life of a construction helmet depends on several factors. Such as how the helmet is handled, how it is maintained and how it is stored when the construction helmet is not in use.
Construction helmet standards
Safety standards for construction helmets are there to protect the user from potential hazards. It is therefore important to ensure that a construction helmet meets at least the following standards:
- EN 397
- EN 50365
- EN 812
EN 397 standard
The most important safety standard for a construction helmet is the EN 397 standard. This standard defines the minimum requirements for the strength of a construction helmet and deals with the extent to which the helmet protects against falling hazards and falling objects.
EN 50365 standard
In addition, a construction helmet must comply with the EN 50365 standard, which defines the electrical conductivity of a construction helmet. A construction helmet should prevent electricity from flowing to the head when working with electricity.
EN 50365 standard
Furthermore, a construction helmet must comply with the EN 812 standard, which defines the shape and dimensions of a construction helmet. This standard ensures that a construction helmet is comfortable to wear and that it fits snugly on the head to provide optimal protection.
Finally, a construction helmet should be checked regularly for damages or wear and tear. If a construction helmet is damaged or no longer meets safety standards, it should be replaced.
Choose the right construction helmet!
Selecting a good construction helmet is very important. This is because there is a lot of difference between the different types of construction helmets. Of course in quality, which mainly determines the service life of the construction helmet. But there are also different types of helmets for different working conditions.
So get advice from a PPE expert. One of our advisers will be happy to assist you. You can reach us via info@veiliggoed.nl or via +31 184 43 44 55.
About Wijngaarden VeiligGoed
Wijngaarden VeiligGoed has more than 50 years of experience and is one of the largest suppliers in the Netherlands in the field of PPE. From our office and warehouse in Sliedrecht (South Holland), we are ready with more than 40 employees, to work on the safety of our customers in the workplace.
Wondering what we can do for your business? Contact us for a no-obligation introduction.
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Our advisors are happy to help you or make an appointment if you wish.
Phone: +31 184 434 455
Mail: info@veiliggoed.nl