More than 120,000 disabling injuries to the head occur each year.
Injuries are often severe with an average loss time of three weeks.
Most employees who receive head injuries were not wearing head protection nor was it required by their employers. Typical injuries to the head are caused by falling objects such as tools, bolts, etc., falling from a height of several yards. OSHA requires occupational head protection in any area of the workplace that presents a risk of head injury. The purpose of a hard hat is to protect the head from the shock of a falling object, penetration by sharp objects, and from exposed electrical conductors. Hard hats must be worn in all areas where there is possible danger of head injury.