Following 5 years of field use by Flintco and many trade partners; head protection offered by ANSI Type II safety helmets has proven superior over traditional hard hats. Now is the time to take the next clear and evident step in providing superior protection for our industry’s most important asset, our employees. Beginning March 1, 2024, traditional hard hats will no longer be optional for use on Flintco projects. All subcontracts issued on or after March 1, 2024, will include language requiring trade partner, service provider and vendor employees to wear an ANSI Type II or an EN12492 safety helmet with integrated chinstrap in place and fastened. This will also be a requirement for job site visitors. Employees working under contracts in place before March 1, 2024, are encouraged, but not required to participate. Why is Flintco mandating the use of safety helmets on our job sites? Because safety helmets are more effective at preventing serious injury. More than half of fatal work-related traumatic injuries are the result of falls – particularly from roofs, ladders, and scaffolds. Traumatic brain injuries represent one-quarter of all construction fatalities. Construction workers sustain more traumatic brain injuries than employees at any other type of workplace in the United States, according to a recent report from NIOSH – after 8 years of study. The Benefits and Versatility of Type II or EN12492 Certified Safety Helmets

• Significantly reduce the force from impact to the top and sides of the head
• Comfortable, 4-point, adjustable chinstrap keeps helmet secure; chin straps are replaceable and required to be utilized.
• Adjustable fit with a ratchet suspension to fit any head size.
• Vented, non-vented, and short-brim and full-brim options.
• Integrated visors, glasses, or face shields are available.
• Electric shock protection (check electrical classification)

The helmet’s design provides a comfortable fit with more versatility but only works with the 4-point chin strap attached securely under the chin – a requirement on all Flintco job sites. Your company is responsible for choosing the helmet for your workforce that meets the ANSI guidelines. Several manufacturers currently produce Type II or EN12492 Safety Helmets, including, but not limited to:

• Studson (Flintco uses)
• KASK (Flintco uses)
• Milwaukee
• Ironwear
• Wavecell