Heads UP

Spray Foam Magazine – Summer Issue 2021 – Head injuries can result in traumatic brain injuries, occasionally resulting in death. Not a great opening line but unfortunately this is a serious threat for anyone either working at heights, close quarters, or where a worker’s hard hat has fallen off their head. Bullard recognized these hazards and responded by designing a new low-riding helmet that would stay on a user’s head even if they were to trip or fall.

The new CEN10 is a play on the word “centennial” as this new design was released around the 100th anniversary of when Bullard first invented the hard hat. The CEN10 helmet is targeted towards workers at heights, on ladders, and those that work in environments prone to slips, trips, and falls. However, it can also be used by anyone in need of Type I head protection, typically construction workers, road crews, or where required by OSHA.

ON-THE-JOB EVALUATIONS

Bullard provides samples of their prototypes, or early production products, to their customers who are experts in the field, workers on job sites, and real on-the-job evaluations. This feedback enables Bullard to observe the product in use resulting in making any necessary adjustments prior to fully launching the product.  

A UNIQUE DESIGN

The conception of the CEN10 began back in 2017 with the idea of producing a climbing-style helmet to meet the needs of head protection that would be secure even through slips, trips, and falls. They began production of the product in Fall 2020, fully launching the CEN10 in the Spring of 2021.

Product Manager, Erin Higgins explains the workings behind the design, “The CEN10 Safety Helmet definitely stands out because of the ergonomics of the design. It’s a helmet that provides maximum protection with all-day comfort. That comfort comes directly from the way we design Bullard head protection. You’ll feel it the second you put a CEN10 on. It rides lower on your head, fits securely without pinching, and distributes the helmet’s weight in a really balanced design. Many other safety helmets on the market are designed by companies focused on recreational head protection. As the inventor of the industrial hard hat, Bullard knows the ins and outs of industrial job sites…this helps us make sure our helmets give our customers the best protection and comfort all shift long.”

Due to the CEN10 being a low-riding helmet with a small brim, it allows for work in tight spaces. It features the FlexGlide suspension and according to Bullard it is the world’s first and only auto-adjusting suspension system that allows the hat to auto-fit to the wearer's head. When the ratchet is disengaged, the wearer can put the hat on like a baseball cap, push in the ratchet, then make even the smallest adjustments for the perfect fit. It also has an integrated three-point chinstrap, accessory clips and slots, antimicrobial moisture-wicking comfort pieces, and Bullard’s iconic three rib helmet shell design. The helmet’s design has a contemporary sporty look with a matte finish that can be tailored with striping and graphics by Bullard’s in-house logo team.

Due to Bullard inventing the first hard hat in 1919, they have over a hundred years of experience and know how important innovation is to stay in-step with workers and PPE. They also know the world is always changing and in the safety industry it is absolutely crucial to be aware of those changes and the needs of the customer. The Bullard team also takes testing their products very seriously and the CEN10 has exceeded the requirements of ANSI Z89.1 Type I with the non-vented version meeting Class G and Class E, while the vented version meets Class C.

Providing products that deliver the most up to date in protection is part of Bullard’s company history and something they pride themselves on. Yet again Bullard has reached new heights in head protection, design and innovation helping provide safety and comfort to workers on-the-job.