Safety helmets are used to protect workers' heads from any possible injuries caused by falling objects. The main objective of the safety helmet is to protect the head of the wearer from possible dangers and mechanical shocks or also other risks of mechanical, thermal or electrical origin. Most helmets are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is a TYPE 2 plastic that allows it to be recycled. Currently, most cases are made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), their inner pads are mainly made of high-density expanded polystyrene foam, and the straps are made of polyester, the buckles are made of high-tenacity polyamide or POM (polyoxymethylene).
¿ Why are they important?
The implementation of workplace safety measures is imperative to prevent incidents that could lead to head injuries with significant repercussions on health, such as impairments in vision, speech and other critical neural functions. In all occupational contexts, the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is an essential requirement, including the mandatory use of safety helmets in specific situations, with the purpose of mitigating risks and safeguarding the integrity of workers. Before starting any work, it is essential that personnel receive the relevant training and have the appropriate PPE for the prevention of occupational risks.
¿What's the worst that can happen if I don't use it?
Not wearing a helmet during your working hours can be dangerous since the consequences of an accident without the use of a helmet can range from
Concussion or mild traumatic head injury.
These injuries can cause loss of consciousness or memory for a few minutes, which can lead to additional accidents if you are at heights or manipulating tools or machinery. These injuries are likely to be accompanied by side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
Contusion or bruising of brain tissue.
This condition can be caused by mild or severe blows to the cranial area. Depending on the intensity of the blow, this can lead to edema and an increase in pressure inside the skull. Blood pressure, a slow pulse and breathing may also be altered. abnormal.
Bleeding in the brain or hemorrhage.
Suffering an accident due to a fall, a violent shake or a direct impact on the head can generate cranial bleeding that can accumulate and form a clot, called a hematoma. The immediate symptoms can be severe headache, seizures, nausea or repeated vomiting, weakness in the arm or leg or loss of consciousness.
Therefore, it is important that when you are told to use a safety helmet, you should put it on safely and avoid taking it off when working because your safety comes first.