TORONTO – Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development has introduced new regulatory requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) regarding Type 2 protective headwear.
Any worker on a construction project who may be exposed to side impact hazards must wear Type 2 hard hats that comply with CSA Standard Z94.1 or ANSI Z89.1, explains a notice from the Ontario General Contractors Association (OGCA).
These hard hats are specifically designed to provide lateral (side) impact protection, offering increased coverage by extending further around the head compared to the traditional Type 1 headwear.
According to the OGCA, requirements for employers include:
- Hazard assessments: Employers must conduct formal worksite hazard assessments to determine where Type 2 head protection is required.
- Worker training: Workers must be trained in the proper use, care along with limitations.
- Chin straps: While not universally mandatory, chin straps are required where there is a risk of headwear becoming dislodged. Any chin strap system must be compatible with the specific make and model of the hard hat.
The regulation will come into effect on July 1, 2027, giving employers and contractors with time to:
- Review and update their policies and procedures
- Procure compliant head protection
- Implement required training and hazard assessments
OGCA members are encouraged to:
- Review current workplace hazard assessments and update them as needed
- Evaluate existing PPE policies and head protection standards on site
- Begin planning for procurement of compliant Type 2 hard hats
- Consult occupational health and safety professionals to ensure full compliance
