Hard hats 101: types, ratings and when to replace them
By NEO Safety Team · 5 Jun 2026
A hard hat is the simplest piece of PPE and one of the most important. But not every helmet suits every job, and an ageing shell can give a false sense of safety.
What to look for
Know the type and class. Type I guards against top impact; Type II adds lateral protection. Electrical classes (E, G and C) tell you how much voltage the shell can resist — critical for utility and electrical work.
Vented shells keep workers cooler under the sun but must never be used around live electrical hazards. A ratchet harness gives a secure, adjustable fit that stays put through the shift.
“Vented or non-vented, cap or full brim, and the one date stamped on your helmet you should never ignore.”
NEO Safety Supplies
Replace a helmet after any significant impact, and check the moulded date stamp — most shells are rated for roughly three to five years from first use. If the plastic is faded, chalky or cracked, retire it.
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