Traditional Hard Hats vs. Climbing-Style Safety Helmets

From construction sites to maintenance work, helmets are a staple of PPE.

But with more climbing-style helmets appearing alongside traditional hard hats, it’s worth asking: what sets them apart, and what should you be wearing?

What is the difference between a hard hat and a climbing or safety helmet?

Hard hats and safety helmets are both designed to protect your head when you’re working in construction.

But while a traditional hard hat or safety helmet is designed for working at ground level, a specialist climbing-style safety helmet is specifically designed for working at height.

This means they have different requirements.

In particular, a climbing helmet needs to have a non-breakaway chin strap that complies with EN 12492, as well as the ability to withstand side impacts. 

Meanwhile, a traditional hard hat will feature a breakaway chin strap and won’t need to be tested for side impact resistance.

Hard hats vs safety helmets: key differences

There are a few key differences between traditional hard hats for working at ground level and safety helmets for working at height.

Here’s the lowdown:

CHIN STRAP

The most noticeable difference between traditional hard hats and climbing-style safety helmets is the chin strap.

The regulations differ:

• Safety helmets for working at height: must conform to EN 12492, which states that the chin strap release force has to be greater than 500 newtons.
• Hard hats for working at ground level: must conform to EN 397, which states that the chin strap has to give way when a force between 150 and 250 newtons is applied.

These different regulations are there for a reason.

When working at ground level, the breakaway feature on your chin strap will make sure that you don’t choke or get trapped if your helmet gets caught.

On the other hand, when you’re working at height, a non-breakaway chin strap makes sure that your helmet stays securely in place, even if you have a bad fall and sustain multiple knocks to your head.

IMPACT RESISTANCE

Another key difference between climbing helmets and traditional hard hats is the regulations around impact resistance.

• Hard hats for working at ground level: Not tested for side impact resistance under EN 397, as the risk comes from falling objects.
• Safety helmets for working at height: Tested for side, front, and rear impacts using a 5kg weight drop. They must withstand two strikes with no more than 10kN of force transferred to the neck.

This wider testing reflects the higher risk of knocks from multiple angles when working at height.

FIT AND DESIGN

You’ll often also spot some further differences between traditional hard hats and climbing-style safety helmets.

A climbing-style safety helmet will often feature:

• A shorter brim to improve your field of vision when you’re looking upwards.
• Extra padding to give you added protection from impact to the top and sides of your helmet.
• A closer fit to improve your balance when working at height and give you more clearance.

These features aren’t compulsory.

But they can transform your experience of working at height – improving comfort, functionality, and even safety.

What are the helmet regulations for working at height?

Just because a helmet is described as a climbing or safety helmet, this doesn’t necessarily mean it meets the regulations for working at height.

Instead, it’s important to check that any head protection you’re considering adheres to the relevant standards.

In the UK, helmets for working at height should:

• Meet EN 12492
• Be UKCA or CE marked
• Be within the manufacturer’s specified expiry date

Interestingly, some working helmets meet both EN 397 (which covers traditional hard hats for working at ground level) and EN 12497 (which covers helmets for working at height).

This is usually if they have a dual switch chin strap, which means you can adapt your head protection to suit the job you’re working on.

What kind of safety hat or helmet do I need for construction?

Choosing the right head protection in construction depends on the type of work you’re doing:

• Working at ground level: Go for a hard hat that conforms to EN 397.
• Specialist tasks (e.g, electrical work): Check whether additional standards apply.
• Working at height (scaffolding, ladders, roofing): You’ll need a safety helmet that meets EN 12492.

When you’re picking out head protection, ask yourself:

• What are the hazards?
• What kind of work are you going to be doing?
• Will you be working at height or ground level?
• What features will make your head protection more comfortable and functional?

Always carry out a health and safety risk assessment to help you select the right PPE and workwear in construction. 

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FAQs 

Are climbing helmets different?

Yes, climbing helmets are different from traditional industrial hard hats.

While traditional hard hats are typically designed for working at ground level, climbing helmets are made for working at height. 

This means they generally have a non-breakaway chin strap that adheres to the standard EN 12492, and they’re tested for side impact resistance.

Are safety helmets replacing hard hats?

Yes, safety helmets are slowly replacing hard hats in lots of workplaces – especially in industries like construction.

This is because safety helmets offer more protection than traditional hard hats. 

Just bear in mind that not all safety helmets meet the safety standards for working at height. So, look for a safety helmet that adheres to EN 12492 if you’re going to be working at height.

What helmets do construction workers wear?

Construction workers wear hard hats or safety helmets designed to protect their heads from impact.

Exactly what head protection they choose is influenced by the hazards they’ll be encountering on the job.

For instance, head protection can meet different standards, such as:

• EN 397: The helmet has passed performance requirements for working at ground level.
• EN 12492: The helmet meets the requirements for working at height and has been tested for side impact.
• EN 14052: The helmet has undergone more rigorous impact testing and offers a greater level of protection.
• EN 50365: The helmet meets electrical insulation requirements for workers dealing with low-voltage electrical installations.

What are the safety requirements for helmets?

Industrial safety helmets have to adhere to EN 397 (for working at ground level). 

This standard stipulates safety requirements, including the need for:

• Impact resistance
• Chin strap strength
• Penetration resistance

It’s also important that helmets fit properly, are in good condition, and are compatible with other PPE, like safety spectacles.

What is the use of a safety helmet in construction?

A safety helmet in construction is used to protect the wearer from head injuries.

In particular, safety helmets are designed to protect the wearer from impacts from falling objects, penetration from sharp objects, and even electrical hazards. 

Climbing-style safety helmets are additionally designed to protect the wearer from impacts sustained from falling from height.