What must employees exposed to falling objects wear?

Employees exposed to falling objects must wear hard hats as a critical safety measure. Hard hats are designed to protect the head from impact and penetration by falling or flying objects, which is especially important in environments such as construction sites or warehouses where these hazards are prevalent. The hard hat’s construction typically includes a shell that absorbs shock and a suspension system that helps distribute the force of an impact, making it an essential part of personal protective equipment (PPE) for those in high-risk occupations.

While safety glasses, steel-toed boots, and gloves serve their own protective purposes—guarding against eye injuries, foot injuries, and hand injuries respectively—they do not provide the necessary protection against impacts from falling objects that hard hats offer. Ensuring the proper use of hard hats is a fundamental aspect of maintaining safety in workplaces that present such risks.