Hard Hat Accessories: Earmuffs, Chin Straps, Sun Brims & More

Australian regulations require that hard hats be worn on worksites when there is a risk of being hit on the head. This could be from a falling object or a collision with a fixed object. Along with fitting snugly and comfortably, they should also enable the integration of hard hat accessories and other PPE.

However, it’s common knowledge that workers are more likely to wear safety gear when it fits properly, as comfort is an important factor when it comes to complying with safety regulations. Proper fit can also improve the overall effectiveness of the gear, ensuring the worker is adequately protected in the event of an accident.

PRO Choice offers a range of well-fitting hard hat accessories, including browguards, earmuffs and chin straps for hard hats.

At BIG Safety, we also stock replacement harnesses to extend the service life of your workers’ hard hats as well as various other hard hat shade accessories to ward off the harsh Australian sun.

Do Hard Hat Accessories Affect the Effectiveness of the Hard Hat?

PRO Choice’s range of hard hat accessories has been specifically designed to complement the hard hat without compromising its effectiveness.

Furthermore, all PRO Choice safety gear and accessories are manufactured in strict compliance with Australian and New Zealand safety standards.

When Should a Hard Hat Harness Be Replaced?

The harness plays a vital role in the event of an impact to the hard hat. By stretching to absorb the impact and distribute the force of energy, the harness works to minimise the effect of the impact force.

However, the protection that a harness provides is significantly reduced when it is damaged or worn with age.

Indications that a hard hat harness should be replaced include if one or more of the mounts break off, the harness becomes brittle, it no longer holds securely to the head, or the cradling straps become weak or worn.

PRO Choice hard hats are also equipped with a unique PROLink anchorage system that connects the inside webbing and significantly improves shock absorption.

When Should a Hard Hat Be Replaced?

There is no definitive number when it comes to the lifespan of a hard hat. However, there are best practice guidelines to keep in mind. For example, if an impact occurred that would otherwise have caused injury to the wearer, thus potentially weakening the integrity of the hard hat, it should be replaced.

Other reasons for replacing a hard hat and its components include the following scenarios:

• The hard hat has been in constant use for more than three years
• The harness has been in constant use for more than two years 
• The hard hat is showing signs of wear and tear (to the helmet shell or harness)
• The helmet surface has had a significant impact
• The shell has become brittle
• The surface appears dull or chalky or has changed colour (it should be shiny)
• Cracks appear in the shell

Knowing when to replace hard hats, their harnesses and other accessories is critical to keeping you or your workers safe.

Browse Our Construction Hard Hat Accessories

Workplace safety is of the utmost importance at BIG Safety, which is why we pride ourselves on stocking a wide range of PRO Choice protective gear and equipment. From humble beginnings in hand protection, PRO Choice's extensive offering is now used and trusted by some of the world’s largest mining, construction and manufacturing companies.

Along with the hard hat add-ons mentioned, we also stock detachable wide sun brims and face shields to day/night reflective tape and sweat bands. Browse our products to see how you can level up your workplace safety today.