Basic Hard Hat Guide FAQ

Buying the right hard hat for the right jobsite can be confusing for tradespeople just starting out, so here's our Basic Hard Hat FAQ Guide for new construction workers. More detailed info about hard hat types and classes can be found in our Hard Hat ANSI Types and Classifications article.

Is there a color code for hard hats?

Not officially. The only color code for hard hats is if the boss requires one on the jobsite. A laborer can wear a yellow, orange, blue, or pink hardhat if he or she desires, as long as that hard hat meets the jobsite ANSI or OSHA requirements. 'In general', high visibility orange or flourescent green is usually mandated for road crews, yellow or orange hard hats for laborers, blue for carpenters, brown for ironworkers, and yellow for operating engineers and/or teamsters.

Is it OK to wear a hard hat backwards?

Yes, it's okay to wear a hard hat backwards provided the manufacturer's label specifically states it on the hard hat certification label. It's called 'reverse donning', and it's indicated on the hard hat label by two arrows in a circle. You can't simply turn the hard hat around on your head though - you'll need to reverse the hard hat suspension so the browband is still resting on your forehead, not the ratchet adjuster.

Do hard hats have sizes?

Yes, and the manufacturer is required to list the size range on the hard hat's certification label, which is inside the hard hat.

Who wears white hard hats?

White hardhats are usually worn by foremen and supervisors when they venture out into the field. Supervisors spend a fair amount of time in the jobsite trailer going over prints, coordinating work scheduling, and ordering supplies, so they don't need a high visibilty color, and the white hard hat stays clean because they're not actually working in the field.

Do hard hats expire?

Yes. A hard hat is made up of two main components: the suspension and the shell. The suspension should be replaced every 12 months, and the hard hat shell should be replaced every five years. That time frame starts from the date the hard hat was put into service. If you've had any kind of accident the hard hat should be replaced, even if there is no noticeable damage and you've only worn it once or twice.

What do green hard hats mean?

Green hard hats don't have any specific meaning. A Type I, Class E green hard hat is the same as a Type I, Class E orange hard hat. On some jobsites, green hard hats might be designated for new hires, perhaps to alert other workers to keep an extra eye on the 'greenhorns' because their inexperience might put them in harm's way without realizing it.

Are aluminum hard hats legal?

Yes, but only if they're ANSI rated, and worn on jobsites or work areas where there's no chance of coming in contact with any type of electric. Aluminum hard hats are usually Type 1, Class C hard hats.