Setting New Standards in Head Protection
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ANSI Type II Helmets: The Next Level of Safety at TOCCI
At TOCCI, safety is a commitment to protecting people with the most effective tools and technology available. Over the past few years, the construction industry has seen a significant shift in head protection, moving away from traditional hard hats toward advanced helmet designs that offer greater protection against a range of potential hazards. TOCCI was an early adopter of this shift, making the initial transformation in 2022 and most recently upgrading to an even more advanced model.
To better understand TOCCI’s approach to head protection, we sat down with TOCCI’s Safety Director, Matthew Chasse, to discuss the reasons behind the initial switch to helmets, the process of selecting the right equipment, and why we’ve recently made this important upgrade.
When did TOCCI originally make the switch from traditional hardhats to helmets? What drove the initial decision? What did the process look like?
TOCCI made the transition from traditional hard hats to helmets in the Spring of 2022. The decision was part of a broader commitment to prioritizing advancements in safety technology. CEO John Tocci spearheaded this initiative and tasked Safety Director, Matt Chasse, with researching new technologies to find the best option for the field teams.
Matt evaluated five models from leading brands, collecting samples for testing. The feedback helped TOCCI narrow down the options. After multiple rounds of testing, TOCCI selected the Kask Superplasma HD helmet. Its lightweight, low-profile design, combined with the availability of additional safety attachments, made it the ideal choice for TOCCI’s field teams at the time.
Why are we making another switch? How do these new helmets differ from the previous ones we were using?
In the few years since TOCCI’s switch, helmet technology has continued to evolve. TOCCI’s upgraded Kask Zenith X2 helmets represent an improvement in head protection compared to the Kask Superplasma HD that was previously used. The Zenith X2 is classified as an ANSI Type II helmet, which provides protection against impacts from the side, front, and back in addition to the top. Whereas the Superplasma HD was rated Type I, designed primarily to protect against impacts from above.
Construction sites present a wide range of hazards beyond just falling objects. Materials or equipment that swing, shift, or move can impact the head from all angles. Slips or falls may result in head injuries as well. Type II helmets address these risks by offering enhanced protection for all areas of the head. Safety equipment should go beyond meeting OSHA standards – it should actively protect against real-world hazards day in, day out.
What is OSHA currently saying about traditional hardhats versus helmets? How do helmets align with OSHA or other regional safety requirements?
While OSHA continues to recognize ANSI Type I hard hats as meeting minimum requirements, the organization has adopted Type II helmets for its own personnel and encourages their use across industries. Although a formal mandate for Type II helmets is unlikely in the near future, employers have an obligation under OSHA’s General Duty Clause to provide a safe + healthful workplace, which includes taking proactive measure to protect employees from known hazards.
TOCCI’s commitment to safety goes beyond meeting standards – it’s about constantly evaluating and improving the tools and equipment provided to protect the people on jobs. By prioritizing innovation and staying ahead of the curve, TOCCI ensures its team has the best possible protection to safely face the challenges construction brings. At the end of the day, the safety and well-being of TOCCI’s people are what matter most.
Matthew Chasse – Corporate Safety Director
Matt coordinates with the Director of Operations and General Superintendent to administer, direct, and oversee compliance of TOCCI’s safety and health policies + procedures. He manages worker orientation programs, oversees corporate safety training policies + implementation, and enforces site-specific safety plans. He ensures compliance with TOCCI standards and all applicable safety codes + regulations.
