From Hard Hats to Helmets - Why TOCCI Made the Switch

TOCCI joins best-in-class construction firms by adopting chin-strap helmets to protect employees’ heads and advance jobsite health and safety. For decades, the design of construction hard hats has not changed, although technology has improved almost every other facet of our industry.

We value the health and safety of our employees, recognizing Traumatic Brain Injury is a serious threat that traditional hard hats cannot provide effective protection for. The key advantages to helmets are the chin strap, interior foam padding, and an outer shell of hard plastic. Their design is like rock-climbing helmets – they were first introduced as “climbing” helmets for the construction industry.

The History
The concept of hard hats began with leather “helmets” in the 1900’s mining industry. Later, inspiration from World War I helmets brought actual hard hats into existence.

Hard hats were first required during the Hoover Dam’s construction in 1931. Their usage continued to be voluntary except when required by the client or contractor. In 1970, the signing of the OSHA Act finally made head protection mandatory in the construction industry.

Learning through Industry Experience + Innovation
While protection from falling or flying objects is essential, several studies show serious injuries occur when hard hats fall off and workers strike their heads. One study focused on Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) of fall victims wearing hard hats vs. helmets; those wearing helmets were much less likely to suffer TBIs, saved by the chin straps. Thus highlighting the importance of this safety feature.

Our Selection
After much research, discussions with manufacturers, vendors, and our employees, and through observations within the industry, we chose Kask – a leader in the protective headwear industry, who engineers, tests, and stands by the quality of their product.

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