Hard hats

AS/NZS 1800:1998 Occupational Protective Helmets - selection, care and use advises that generally, helmet shells have a life of at least three years from the time of issue. However, the components of harnesses are less durable and should be replaced at intervals of no longer than two years.

The user should examine the protective helmet on a regular basis and replace it if any damage is evident. Regulation 17 of the Workplace Health and Safety Regulations 1998 states:

In identifying a hazard and assessing and controlling a risk, the accountable person must consider:

• any relevant code of practice approved under Section 22 of the Act; and
• any standard, rule, code or specification relating to the hazard of which the person ought to have been aware.