Head Protection Safety Guide

How to Select, Fit, and Maintain Protective Helmets

Protect your head from falling objects, collisions and other occupational hazards by choosing the correct helmet, ensuring it fits, and maintaining it properly.

Before You Begin

•  Inspect your helmet for cracks, dents, or obvious damage.
  
• Ensure the suspension/harness inside the shell is intact and adjusted.
  
• Remove any stickers, paint or modifications not approved by the manufacturer.
  
• Check that the issue date and certification mark (AS/NZS 1801) are visible.
  

Tip: A helmet that has been impacted or damaged may no longer provide full protection replace it.

Choosing the Right Helmet

Different roles and hazard environments require different types of helmets:

• Type 1 helmets: For general industrial use, vertical impact protection.
  
• Type 2 helmets: For higher temperatures or specialized environments.
  
• Type 4 helmets: The newer classification in AS/NZS 1801:2024 that provides enhanced protection, including front/side/back impacts and retention systems.
  

Always select a helmet certified to AS/NZS 1801:2024 (or earlier valid classification) and clearly marked accordingly.

Understanding the Standard & Compliance

All helmets must comply with the Australian/New Zealand standard AS/NZS 1801:2024, which includes requirements for shell, harness system, retention, impact energy attenuation, penetration resistance, marking, and accessories.

Look for the following markings on the helmet:

• Standard identification (AS/NZS 1801)
  
• Type classification (1, 2, or 4)
  
• Issue or batch date
  
• Manufacturer’s name or logo
  
• Relevant accessory compatibility (e.g., earmuffs, visors)
  

Products and packaging must be marked in accordance with the standard.

How to Fit Your Helmet

• Place the helmet on your head so it sits level front-to-back and side-to-side.
  
• Adjust the harness or headband until it fits snugly yet comfortably.
  
• If required for your task, attach a chin strap and ensure it is fastened under the chin when working at heights or in windy conditions. 
  
• Check that any accessories (earmuffs, visors, lamps) are compatible and do not compromise the fit or shell integrity.
  
• Perform a shake test; the helmet should remain stable on the head without major movement.
  

Care, Maintenance & Replacement

• Clean the helmet shell with mild soap and water; avoid solvents or strong chemicals.
  
• Store the helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
  
• Inspect the shell, harness, chin strap, and any attachments before each use for damage, deformation, or wear.
  

1. If it has sustained an impact, even if no visible damage, the energy absorption may be compromised.
2. If the shell is cracked, chipped, or faded.
   
3. If the harness or retention parts are frayed, damaged, or missing.
   
4. After the manufacturer’s stated service life or no later than 3 years from issue (whichever comes first) unless specifically rated for longer. 

Quick Daily Check

• The helmet is the correct type for the task and has AS/NZS 1801 certification.
  
• Shell and harness are free from visible damage or wear.
  
•  Helmet fits snugly and includes the required chin strap or accessories.
  
• Logos, markings, and date of issue are legible.
  
• The helmet is clean, stored correctly, and not aged beyond its service life.
  

Head protection is not optional it’s essential whenever there is a risk of impact, falling objects or collisions. By selecting the correct helmet, ensuring proper fit and consistently maintaining it, you protect your most vital asset: your head and brain.