The New Head Protection Regulations Coming Into Effect. Type 2 vs. Type 1. Why It Matters.

Written By Jeff Tate

The transition to Type 2 hard hats (often called safety helmets) is a major shift in construction safety, driven by the need for better protection during slips, trips, and falls. Traditional Type 1 hard hats only protect the top of the head and frequently fall off during a fall—which is exactly when they are needed most.

Here is what you need to know about the new and upcoming mandates for Ontario and across Canada.

The Ontario OHSA Mandate (Effective July 1, 2027)

The Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) has amended the Construction Projects Regulation (O. Reg. 213/91) under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

  • The Rule: Any worker on a construction project exposed to side impact hazards will be legally required to wear a Type 2 hard hat.

  • Standards: Helmets must comply with either CSA Standard Z94.1 or ANSI Z89.1.

  • Chin Straps: While the regulation does not universally mandate chin straps for every single scenario, they are required wherever there is a risk of the headwear becoming dislodged (such as working at heights, high winds, or non-vertical angles).

The CCSC Industry Mandate (Effective July 1, 2026)

While the provincial law takes effect next year, the industry is already moving ahead. The Canadian Construction Safety Council (CCSC) implemented a strict mandate that took effect on July 1, 2026.

  • The Rule: All personnel, trade partners, subcontractors, and visitors on any CCSC-member construction site across Canada must wear a Type 2 hard hat.

  • Chin Straps: Unlike the OHSA rule, the CCSC mandate explicitly requires a manufacturer-approved, integrated four-point chin strap. You cannot retrofit an old strap onto a Type 1 hat to comply.

Why the Shift?

Traumatic brain injuries account for roughly 25% of all construction-related fatalities, and over half of those result from falls (ladders, roofs, scaffolding).

Type 1 Hard Hat

  • Design Style Traditional wide-brim or front-peak

  • Impact Protection Crown (top of head) only

  • Retention Standard suspension

  • Fall Protection Frequently falls off before impact

Type 2 Safety Helmet

  • Design Style Climbing style, lower profile

  • Impact Protection Crown, front, back, and sides (lateral)

  • Retention Integrated 4-point chin strap

  • Fall Protection Typically stays in place protecting head

Research from the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab shows that wearing a Type 2 helmet reduces the average risk of a fall-related concussion by 34% and the risk of a skull fracture by 65%.

Ready to streamline your safety procurement and be ready for the new mandates to keep you and your teams safe?

Stop juggling multiple vendors and overpaying for essential gear. Partner with the experts who have been protecting Canada’s workforce for over 40 years. We can get the best brands in safety gear at the best prices for companies both big and small.

Contact Drollis Safety Supply Co. today:

  • Website:DrollisSafety.ca

  • Location: 3375 North Service Rd Unit B8, Burlington, Ontario

  • Phone: 1-800-663-9205

  • Email: Sales@DrollisSafety.com

Jeff Tate
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