Safety Starts at the Top: A Q&A With a Leading Head Protection Specialist

Injury statistics demonstrate that when someone falls or trips, their head is more likely to impact the ground at an angle. Conventional hard hats without chin straps tend to fly off in these scenarios. PIP® is raising the bar in head protection with the introduction of three new advanced ANSI Type II safety helmets. These helmets are designed to improve job site safety while offering unprecedented levels of comfort, customization, and versatility. Let’s explore what makes each of these new products unique.

PIP® Traverse™ Type II with Mips® (Watch The Video Here)

• What is Mips® technology, and why does it matter?
  Mips® brain protection technology is a low friction layer integrated into the Traverse safety helmet, that is designed to redirect and help reduce the amount of rotational force transferred to the head. Originally invented to protect against common fall risks from cycling, skiing, and equestrian horseback riding, the Mips® system allows up to 15 mm of relative movement between the helmet and the head during the first moments of impact. This helps to reduce the severity of the impact and protect the brain from trauma.
• What features on the Traverse can be customized?
  The Traverse features universal accessory slots, that allow for a wide range of personalization options. Popular accessories for common job site hazards include ear muff attachments for hearing protection, anti-fog eye shields for eye protection, and sunshades, in addition to custom logos for personalization.
• Is the Traverse offered without Mips® for job sites with lower risk environments?
  Yes, for safety managers at lower risk job sites who are not concerned with rotational protection and who are seeking a more cost-effective solution, Traverse is offered in both ANSI Type II and Type I variants without Mips®. For all variants, the accessories described above can still be attached.

Kilimanjaro™ Type II with Dyna-Clic™ (Watch The Video Here)

• What kind of jobsites and hazards is the Kilimanjaro suited for?
  This helmet is ideal for those seeking a traditional yet advanced head protection solution, particularly for exterior jobsites exposed to the elements. Featuring a full brim design and a pre-installed chin strap with a magnetic buckle, the Kilimanjaro ensures all-around protection against sun, glare, rain, debris and impact. A vented version is also available, helping keep workers cool​ on hot summer days.
• How does the Kilimanjaro compare to a modern safety helmet?
  The Kilimanjaro acts like a modern safety helmet, without looking like one. It sports a traditional full brim hard hat look, which is what many workers still prefer. At the same time, it features a pre-installed chin strap for security and provides enhanced ANSI Type II lateral protection, all while accommodating a wide range of universal accessories. Overall, it’s a great solution for workers who require robust protection from any angle, without sacrificing convenience.

• The pre-installed magnetic chin strap is interesting on its own. Is it compatible with other hard hats?
  Yes! Our Dyna-Clic™ magnetic chin strap is available separately and can be installed onto other Dynamic® hard hat models to ensure a worker’s head protection won’t slip off in the event of a fall, or when leaning forward.

JSP® EVO® ALTA™ Ascend® Type II (Watch The Video Here)

• How does the ALTA provide increased airflow within its shell?
  ALTA features an internal impact liner made from lightweight expanded polypropylene (EPP) to increase shock absorption and penetration protection, without needing to cover the entire inner portion of the shell. Combined with a textile suspension harness, this creates a clearance around the head, increasing airflow within the helmet and helping to keep the wearer cool. The dual-vented version of the ALTA, with side and rear ventilation, reduces internal temperatures by an average of 5-7 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The ALTA is described as having an adjustable design. What features can be adjusted?
  The JSP wheel ratchet suspension featuring a 3D adjustment system eliminates pressure points, providing a secure and customizable fit for a range of head sizes. Combined with an adjustable 4-point chinstrap, the ALTA provides a comfortable fit for nearly any user.
• How well does the ALTA integrate accessories?
  The helmet shell is designed with universal attachment points that securely fit JSP® above-the-neck accessories, such as Sonis® ear muffs, EVOGuard™ visors, and seamless usage of Force Typhoon™ respirators. Its interchangeable front module allows for further customization with an ID card, company logo, lamp clip or other accessories.