Hard hats and Bump caps are both PPE that provide head protection, but their uses and environments are different.
There is no question that a head injury while on the job can be disastrous. It's easy to see hard hats as the solution to head injury prevention.
However, what kind of head protection to choose is rarely studied, but it is very important. This article walks you through the difference between a bump cap and a hard hat, providing a quick guide to choosing the right head protection for the job.
What is a bump cap
A bump cap is a safety device that protects the wearer from minor head impacts and cuts, but not from falling or flying objects. You should use safety bump caps when there is a risk of collision between your head and fixed objects such as low ceilings, the underside of vehicles (especially mechanics) and overhead pipes.
It is the detachable safety insert of the bump cap that protects the head, not the fabric cap itself. This allows for easy cleaning and custom techniques such as embroidery.
We must wear hard hats when there is a risk of collision with moving objects.
Both bump caps and hard hats have safety requirements defined in the safety standard BS EN 812:2012. They test the bump cap to a lesser degree, measuring basic performance and safety requirements. Also, the bump cap protects against sharp objects and some low temperatures.
What is hard hat
Hard hat (aka: Safety helmet) is an important part of PPE equipment. Made of rigid materials such as polymers, metal or fiberglass, it protects the wearer while working where debris and falling objects can cause head injuries.
Hard hats are mandatory on construction sites, and hard hats will withstand heavy impacts to protect the wearer's head from impact. Hard hats also protect the wearer from different weather conditions.
Both hard hats and bump caps provide some degree of head protection. The needs of your industry depend on the potential hazards you and your employees face.
Bump Caps & Hard Hats
When it comes to head protection, there are several options on the market. However, two of the most popular options are bump caps and hard hats. Here are the main differences between these two types of headgear:
The bump cap is designed to protect against low-impact bumps and scrapes. Hard hats, on the other hand, are designed to provide protection against more severe impacts, such as falling objects.
Bump caps are usually made of lightweight materials such as plastic or foam. Hard hats, on the other hand, are usually made of more durable materials such as polycarbonate or fiberglass.
Bump caps generally have a shorter lifespan than hard hats. Hard hats, on the other hand, can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
So, which type of headwear is right for you? It depends on the level of protection you need. If you work in a low-risk environment, a bump cap may be all you need. However, if you are working in a more hazardous environment, a hard hat is a better choice.
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Bump hat |
Hard Hat(Safety Helmet) |
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Effectiveness of protection |
Also known as a bump cap, it's cheap and easy to wear, almost like a safety version of a baseball cap, but not really high-impact risk. The impact cap protects you from stationary objects and high impact.
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Hard hats protect you from high-impact debris by absorbing impact and provide optimal head protection when worn correctly. The hard hat is resistant to penetration, falling objects and extreme heat.
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Cost |
Bumper caps cost between £6 and £10 each, but are cheaper when ordered in bulk. However, some companies offer winter hardtops for around £15-£25.
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Hard hats cost anywhere from £3 a piece to £20-30 a piece. The average price range is £9. When purchased in bulk, costs can be significantly reduced.
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Maintain |
Inspection, maintenance, replacement. Replace anything that is damaged. Clean with mild soap and water. Do not use chemicals on the cap or casing.
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Like crash caps, follow the "inspect, maintain, and replace" rule. Be sure to replace any damaged parts and clean them with mild soap and water. Don't use chemicals on your hard hats - including permanent markers!
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Life |
You can do a case test by pressing down with both hands. If the material snaps back, your impact cap will still work. Compared with the elasticity of the new shell. If it does not have the same characteristics or is cracked, it needs to be replaced to comply with EN812:2012.
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They are adjustable. You and your employees may wear items such as hoods, beanies, and bandanas under your hard hats as long as they are smooth on top of your head.
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Easy to wear |
Adjustable shoulder strap for easy wearing. Hats don't add height to your head or reduce your chances of being injured from hitting an object. If the model is not ventilated, it may become hot and sweaty after prolonged use. The impact cap is lighter and will not affect vision.
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They are adjustable. You and your employees may wear items such as hoods, beanies, and bandanas under your hard hats as long as they are smooth on top of your head.
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Factors affecting the life of helmets
The lifespan of a hard hat depends on your work environment, for example:
- Sunlight
- Extreme temperature
- Chemical exposure
- Usage frequency
You will need to check your hard hat daily to determine if the shell, suspension, or the entire unit needs replacing. Also, if your hard hat takes an impact, you'll need to replace it. Replace the hard hat if it has:
- Crack
- Dent
- Cut/gauge
- Frayed shoulder straps
- Tears
- Flexibility
Heat, sunlight and chemical exposure can also affect your hard hat.
Bump caps on a construction site
The bump cap is designed to be used when the user is at risk of a fixed obstacle overhead, rather than a moving or falling object, and should instead wear a hard hat. Bump caps provide a lower level of head protection than hard hats, as defined in standard BS EN 812:2012.
Most construction workers are required to wear hard hats while on the job. However, many jobs also require the use of bump caps. A bump cap is a type of helmet that helps protect against minor bumps and scrapes. They are not as effective as hard hats, but can help prevent minor injuries.
Not all construction sites require bump caps. However, many contractors prefer workers to wear them. This is because they help reduce the number of minor injuries that occur on the job. Bump caps can also help protect workers from falling debris.
If you work on a construction site, be sure to check with your employer if you are required to wear a bump cap. Wearing one can help you stay safe on the job.
Benefits of bump caps for the wearer
Some may think that bump caps are only worn by construction workers, but that's not true. There are many different types of jobs that require the use of bump caps, and there are many different benefits to wearing them. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy when you wear a bump cap:
Protects against minor bumps and scrapes
If you're in a job that requires working around moving machinery or in tight spaces, bump caps can protect you from minor bumps and scrapes.
Reduce the risk of serious injury
While a bump cap won't protect you from all injuries, it can help reduce the risk of serious injury.
Improve visibility
The bump cap often has reflective material on it to help improve your visibility in low light conditions.
Comfortable
Bump caps are usually made of a comfortable material, so you can wear them for long periods of time without discomfort.
If you're in a job that requires you to work around moving machinery or in tight spaces, bump caps can protect you from minor bumps and scrapes. Bump caps are usually made of a comfortable material, so you can wear them for long periods of time without discomfort. If you're looking for ways to increase your job security, consider wearing a bump hat.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a suitable hard hat or bump cap manufacturer, welcome to check out our products. We are a leading safety helmet manufacturer in China, aiming to provide better protection to more workers around the world. Welcome to contact us for more discount and product consultation.
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