By: Emory Bryan

TULSA, Okla. – Tulsa based Flintco has adopted a new standard for the most basic construction safety gear: the hard hat.

Flintco employees nationwide wear an updated safety helmet with a chin strap, that offers better protection from impacts on the side.

OSHA recommends but doesn’t require employers to use the higher standard helmets but does require them for OSHA employees on construction sites.

“The traditional construction hard hat is something that hasn’t changed in decades,” said Russ Peevy, a regional Vice President for Flintco.

He said the company has been encouraging subcontractors to adopt their standard for PPE, that include cut resistant gloves, high-visibility vests, and safety helmets.

“We wanted to be a leader in the industry for contractors in Tulsa, and all over, to hopefully get on board and adopt these and make the decision. They’re the right thing to be doing,” he said.

“I’m confident that these helmets save lives. There’s no reason not to use them,” said Steve Jordan, the Health and Safety Vice President for Flintco.

Jordan said the newer helmet costs about $50 more than the old ones but have a much longer life span in addition to offering better protection, with a chin strap to make sure it’s in place.

“If somebody were to fall, even if they trip, it’s typical that a traditional hard hat would fall off and they strike their head. This keeps the hard hat in place to absorb that impact.”

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