Understanding Safety Helmet Standards

Industrial safety helmets may look similar, but different standards define different protection requirements, testing methods, and classifications.

For companies purchasing PPE, understanding the difference between EN 397 and ANSI Z89.1 helps ensure workers receive the right protection for their working environment.

This guide explains the key differences between these two major industrial helmet standards and how to choose the right safety helmet based on workplace risks.

What Is EN 397?

EN 397 is a European standard for industrial protective helmets. It defines requirements for helmet design, performance, testing, and marking.

EN 397 focuses mainly on protection against workplace impact hazards, especially falling objects.

EN 397 Type 1 vs Type 2

Classification	Protection Focus
Type 1	Protection mainly against top impacts
Type 2	Additional protection against front, rear, and side impacts

Type 2 helmets are designed for workplaces where workers may face more complex impact risks.

What Is ANSI Z89.1?

ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 is an industrial head protection standard commonly used in the United States.

ANSI helmets are classified by:

Impact Type

Type I

• Designed mainly for top impact protection

Type II

• Provides additional lateral impact protection from the front, rear, and sides

Electrical Classification

Class	Protection
Class C	No electrical protection rating
Class G	General electrical protection
Class E	Higher electrical protection

Electrical classification is important for workers in power, utility, and electrical maintenance industries.

EN 397 vs ANSI Z89.1: Key Differences

Feature	EN 397	ANSI Z89.1
Main Market	Europe / International	United States
Impact Classification	Type 1 / Type 2	Type I / Type II
Side Impact	Type 2	Type II
Electrical Protection	Based on certified requirements	Class C / G / E
Selection Method	Workplace risk + certification	Workplace risk + classification

Although both standards provide industrial head protection, they are not interchangeable. A helmet certified to one standard does not automatically meet the requirements of the other.

How to Choose the Right Safety Helmet?

The right helmet should always be selected according to workplace hazards.

1. Identify the Working Environment

Different industries require different protection:

• Construction

• Electrical work

• Mining

• Oil & gas

• Manufacturing

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2. Evaluate Impact Risks

Consider whether workers may face:

• Falling objects

• Side impacts

• Moving equipment hazards

For higher impact risks, helmets with enhanced lateral protection may provide additional safety.

3. Check Electrical Requirements

For electrical environments, confirm the required electrical protection level before selecting a helmet.

Class E electrical helmets are commonly used in applications involving electrical hazards.

4. Consider Comfort and Fit

Workers often wear helmets for many hours. Important features include:

• Ventilation

• Suspension system

• Adjustable fit

• Lightweight design

A comfortable helmet improves long-term wearing compliance.

Recommended Safeyear Safety Helmets

W-018 Construction Safety Helmet

Designed for:

• Construction sites

• General industrial applications

Features:

• Comfortable ventilation

• Reliable impact protection

• Everyday workplace safety

W-003 Class E Electrical Safety Helmet

Designed for:

• Electrical maintenance

• Utility applications

Features:

• Electrical protection

• Professional industrial safety performance

W-6000 ANSI Type II Safety Helmet

Designed for:

• Workplaces requiring enhanced impact protection

Features:

• Top impact protection

• Side impact protection

• Advanced head protection

FAQ

Is EN 397 the same as ANSI Z89.1?

No. They are different industrial helmet standards with different testing and classification systems.

What is the difference between Type I and Type II helmets?

Type I focuses mainly on top impact protection, while Type II provides additional lateral impact protection.

How do I choose the right safety helmet?

Choose based on workplace hazards, impact risks, electrical requirements, and required certification standards.

Conclusion

Choosing the right industrial safety helmet is not only about certification. The best helmet should match the actual workplace environment and protection requirements.

By understanding EN 397 vs ANSI Z89.1, companies can make better PPE decisions and improve worker safety.