J. J. Keller & Associate, Inc. and the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) recently joined forces to conduct a comprehensive study on head protection practices and challenges. The results of the study, titled "A Turning Point for Head Protection," were released. The public can download the study report on the J. J. Keller® Safegear Protect website, and members of ISEA can download the study report on the association’s website.

J. J. Keller and ISEA experts will host a free webcast titled “Head Protection Practices and Challenges: A J. J. Keller and ISEA Collaborative Study,” examining the results, on November 13, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. central time. The public may register here.

Summary of key findings

• Head protection terminology Is unclear in the market today.  While most safety professionals responding to the study expressed confidence that they understood various head protection terms, our research reveals there is actually significant confusion and over-simplification in the differences (and similarities) between hardhats and helmets.
• Safety managers experience multiple pain points when it comes to managing head protection.  With more options for head protection than ever before, safety managers find themselves navigating a more complicated decision-making process. They are challenged to get employees to consistently wear head protection. They’re also challenged to find head protection that is comfortable for all workers.
• Care and maintenance of head protection needs improvement.  Only 54% of responding safety managers train workers on how to maintain their head protection, suggesting a significant opportunity.
• Standards organizations, manufacturers and other experts have an opportunity to educate the industry.  These groups can provide safety managers with clarity, guidance and education to address the evolving landscape of head protection.

“Head protection has been a cornerstone of workplace safety for decades," said Cam Mackey, President and CEO of ISEA. "While the growing variety of head protection options provides greater choice, it has also introduced some confusion for safety professionals and workers. Addressing these challenges head-on and clarifying the most effective solutions and standards will ensure better protection and safety for all.”

J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. and ISEA, both dedicated to promoting worker safety, recognized the need for clarity in head protection practices. Through their collaborative efforts, they aim to enhance overall safety through education and outreach

“The first step towards achieving this goal is to understand the challenges and usage patterns of safety professionals and head protection users,” said Bob Larsen, Vice President of Research & Development with J. J. Keller. “We believe that the findings of this study will inspire meaningful discussions among regulators, safety professionals, and industry experts, and ultimately contribute to enhanced worker safety and well-being.”