Type 1 vs Type 2 Hard Hats

Compare the key differences between Type 1 and Type 2 hard hats to choose the right protection for your worksite.
Feature Type 1 Hard Hat Type 2 Hard Hat
Impact Protection Top only Top and sides
Suspension System Rigid shell Foam + shell
Ideal For General jobsite Elevated or confined areas
Typical Use Overhead hazards Falling or swinging objects

Safety Standards

Both Type 1 and Type 2 hard hats meet ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 safety standards. Type 2 hard hats provide additional lateral impact protection, making them ideal for construction workers in elevated positions or confined spaces where side impacts are more likely.

What Is a Type 2 Hard Hat?

A Type 2 hard hat is designed to protect against both top and side impacts, unlike Type 1 hard hats, which only protect against top impact.

That makes Type 2 ideal for environments where objects can strike from the side — such as scaffolding, heavy equipment operations, or confined spaces.

Type 2 helmets typically feature:

  • A foam or expanded polystyrene (EPS) liner for side protection
  • A four-point or six-point suspension system for stability
  • ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type 2 certification
  • Optional Class E (Electrical), Class G (General), or Class C (Conductive) ratings

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Type 2 Hard Hats | ANSI Z89.1 OSHA-Approved Safety Helmets

Type 2 Full Brim Hard Hat resting on a truck bed at a construction site.

Our Type 2 Hard Hats provide the highest level of head protection available under ANSI Z89.1, guarding against both top and lateral impacts for superior on-site safety. Fully OSHA-approved, these Type 2 safety helmets are trusted by professionals in heavy construction, utilities, mining, and industrial environments where comprehensive protection is non-negotiable.


Unlike Type 1 Hard Hats, which only protect from vertical impacts, Type 2 Hard Hats include additional side, front, and rear protection, offering complete coverage for unpredictable job-site hazards. Constructed from high-density ABS or polycarbonate shells, these helmets balance strength, durability, and comfort for long shifts in the field.


Choose from Class E (Electrical), Class G (General), or Class C (Conductive) ratings, depending on your work conditions. Each helmet features an adjustable 4- or 6-point suspension system, foam-lined interiors, and vented or non-vented options for optimal airflow and fit.


Available in full brim and cap styles, as well as premium finishes like matte, gloss, and carbon fiber, our Type 2 Hard Hats deliver ANSI-certified safety with professional comfort and style.


Protect your team with Type 2 Hard Hats built for real-world impact trusted by crews nationwide for performance that exceeds OSHA requirements.

man wearing orange reflective safety vest on a construction site

FAQs About Type 2 Hard Hats

What is a Type 2 hard hat used for?

Type 2 hard hats protect from top and lateral impacts, making them ideal for construction, utility, and manufacturing work.

What’s the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 hard hats?

Type 1 protects only from top impact; Type 2 protects from both top and sides.

Are Type 2 hard hats OSHA approved?

Yes, all Type 2 hard hats on Contractor PPE meet OSHA and ANSI Z89.1 standards.

What is a Class E Type 2 hard hat?

A Class E Type 2 model protects against electrical hazards up to 20,000 volts.


Can I add my company logo to a Type 2 hard hat?

Absolutely. We offer custom hard hats with your company logo and branding.