In collaboration with and funded by the American Society of Concrete Contractors Education, Research & Development Foundation, the John R. Gentille Foundation, ELECTRI International, and The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC), researchers at Virginia Tech University have completed a first-of-its-kind helmet safety evaluation.
Using the renowned STAR testing system, the team assessed 17 construction helmets to measure their ability to reduce linear and rotational head acceleration during oblique fall scenarios—accidents that are severe but survivable.
Key Findings:
- Helmets with 4- and 5-star ratings significantly lower concussion and skull fracture risk.
- Type 2 helmets consistently outperformed traditional Type 1 hard hats in impact protection.
- The data strongly recommend upgrading to Type 2 helmets for workers exposed to fall hazards.
This study provides critical, science-backed evidence supporting the transition from hard hats to helmets.
Read the full Virginia Tech University Helmet Rating Study here.
About the ASCC
The American Society of Concrete Contractors is a non-profit organization that dedicates itself to enhancing the capabilities of those who build with concrete, and to providing them a unified voice in the construction industry. Members include concrete contracting firms, manufacturers, suppliers, and others interested in the concrete industry such as architects, specifiers, and distributors. There are approximately 720 member companies in the United States and thirteen foreign countries. For more information, visit www.ascconline.org or call the ASCC office at (866) 788-2722.
