How long can I keep hard hats for before they need to be replaced?
All existing hard hats must comply with BS 5240, and new hats must be CE marked and to BSEN 397. There’s no concrete answer to what the life span of a hard hat is because it depends on factors such as the type of hat, how much it is used etc. The best thing to do is to contact the manufacturer of the particular hat you are using, in order to ask them at what intervals they recommend the helmet should be replaced. However the HSE advise that hard hats will need replacing when the harness is damaged or if it’s likely that the shock absorption or penetration resistance has deteriorated. For example, when the shell has received a severe impact, or if deep scratches occur (ie to a depth greater than 25% of the shell thickness) or if the shell has any visible cracks. Good maintenance will also keep the hat in good working order and prolong its life. The HSE provides the following advice. Safety helmets should: (a) be stored in a safe place, eg on a peg or in a cupboard on site; (b) not be st
