When you read articles like "Teen Roofer Fatally Electrocuted on the Job, Federal Probe Launched" on sites like Roofing Contractor Magazine, you can't help but wonder what's being done to make the industry safer for all. Here's some good news. Roofing workers encounter risks from side, rear, and front of head impacts, as well as flying debris and overhead hazards. But for all these scenarios, the typically worn Type I ANSI rated hard hat doesn't provide adequate protection. Some studies now suggest workers who want the best protection should consider wearing a Type II helmet with a chin strap. To aid in this research, this summer Virginia Tech's Helmet Lab began developing a grading system for construction helmets. Their 18-month study will analyze the types of head impacts workers experience on job sites, couple that with data collected from sensors used in decades of studies performed on athletic helmets, to determine which helmets best protect workers. According to a VT press release, this work is funded and guided by the John R. Gentille Foundation, ELECTRI International, the American Society of Concrete Contractors, and the Association of Union Constructors. As a building contractor or home remodeling professional, you want to keep your eye on the VT Helmet Lab next August for their results.
Virginia Tech has been studying sports-related head impacts and helmets for decades to provide consumers with ratings. Having them move into the construction sector is huge!
We love hearing this, Fixr.com! (It would be terrific if we never reported on these stories again.)