Wearing a helmet in hazardous environments is a given. But choosing the right model is not always easy. There are different types of helmets depending on where and how you work - and the right choice can be crucial for both safety and comfort.
In this guide, we go through:
- The difference between helmets for working at height and on the ground
- Certifications to watch out for
- Accessories to customise your helmet to your needs
Helmet for working at height vs. on the ground
The biggest and most important difference between helmets for working at height and for ground work is the way the chinstrap works - and this is determined by the standard to which the helmet is certified.
✅ Helmets for working at height
If you are working in a harness, on a roof, on a pole or with rope access, you must use a helmet that is certified according to EN 12492.
This standard requires that the chinstrap should not come loose in a fall - it should withstand at least 50kg of tensile load. This means that the helmet stays in place even if you hang upside down or get hit from the side. EN 12492 helmets also have side impact protection, which is particularly important when travelling near hard structures.
Common occupations where you need a helmet with EN 12492:
- Rope access
- Wind power
- Roof and facade work
- Mast and pole
⚠️ Helmets for working at ground level
Do you work on construction sites, in industry or similar environments? Then it's a helmet with EN 397 you need.
EN 397 is the standard for industrial safety helmets and requires that the chinstrap should release at a load between 15 and 25 kg. This reduces the risk of strangulation should the helmet get caught on something during work.
EN 397 helmets are primarily made to protect against falling objects from abovebut not against side impacts or falls from height.
Typical uses of EN 397 helmets:
- Construction and civil engineering
- Engineering industry
- Warehouse and logistics environments
- Maintenance at ground level.
EN 397, EN 12492 and EN 50365 - what does it mean?
The most common certifications in Europe are:
- EN 397 - Helmet for industrial work. Protects against falling objects. Chin strap should release at 15-25kg load.
- EN 12492 - Helmet for climbing and working at height. Also protects from side impacts. The chin strap should withstand at least 50kg.
- EN 50365 - Protection against electrical voltage. Applies to helmets used in electrical environments.
💡 Example: Kask Zenith is certified to EN 397, EN 12492 and EN 50365 - making it a good choice for those working at height and in environments where there is an electrical risk.
Petzl Vertex Vent, which we also sell, is not approved according to EN 50365 but is an excellent choice for working at height with a focus on comfort and accessories.
Accessories to complete your helmet
Many work tasks require more than just basic protection. That's why it's smart to choose a helmet that is compatible with the right accessories:
👁 Visor - Protects against splinters, rain, sun and UV light.
🎧 Ear muffs - Can be mounted directly on the helmet or via adapt. Available in different attenuation levels depending on your sound environment.
🔦 Headlamp - A must in dark or enclosed spaces.
Summary - choose the right helmet for the right job
- Do you work at height or in a harness? Choose a helmet with EN 12492.
- Do you work on the ground? Then you need EN 397.
- Do you work near electricity? Make sure your helmet has EN 50365.
- Do you need a visor, hearing protection or a headlamp? Choose a helmet with the right brackets for accessories.
- Do you work long hours? Bet on low weight and good ventilation.
