Finding the Right Fit

For steel erectors, choosing a Type II helmet requires finding solutions that allow it to work seamlessly with halos or adapters and welding shields.

The benefits of Type II safety helmets are clear. They provide impact protection not only for the top but also the sides and rear of the head, while chin straps ensure they stay secured during falls or lateral impacts.

Propose Solutions

GCs are frequently requiring them for all trades on jobsites, but that has left ironworkers who weld in a gap. This specific demographic is small in the overall construction population and has unique fit and integration needs.

For steel erectors, the decision involves far more than simply choosing a Type II helmet. It requires finding solutions that allow the helmets, halos or adapters, and welding shields to work seamlessly together.

Most manufacturers have not focused on the needs of this niche group, and those that do have products don’t necessarily make universal fit accessories. This trial-and-error reality has forced many

contractors to take the lead in finding workable solutions for their crews. For Perry & Perry Builders, Rockdale, Texas, the challenge shifted from theoretical to urgent priority when a GC mandated Type II helmets on an energy center project in the Dallas-Fort Worth area at the start of 2023.

Nearly all the company’s 200+ field personnel are both ironworkers and welders. At the time of the GC’s request, Vince Ortega, North Texas Safety Manager, could not find an option that worked for welders. They were allowed to stick with Type I hard hats for that project but that prompted Ortega to begin actively looking for a solution.

Meanwhile, Ortega’s account manager at Columbia Safety & Supply, Brian Vance, had been researching the issue. He had been ordering samples of helmets, halos, and welding hoods, trying out different combinations. “It’s a bit like being a redneck scientist,” said Vance. “You have to mix and match until you find what works.” Individual preferences for comfort, aesthetics, the need for uniformity among the crew,

and budget, add to the complexity of the selection process.

“The situation is similar to the struggle female construction workers had with finding PPE that fit properly. Small demographics aren’t big revenue drivers for the manufacturers, and they can be slow to respond,” said Vance. The good news is that in recent months several accessory adapters have come on the market that seem to be solving some of the challenges.

“Brian started pairing various combinations and sending us samples to try in the field. Without his research and proactive communication with the manufacturers I would still be trying to find a solution,” said Ortega.

Education, Planning, Practical Steps

Making the switch to Type II helmets is no longer a matter of “if” but “when.”

A 2025 Job-Site Safety Institute study, conducted by NC State University and George Mason University, confirms that education is key to adoption. Researchers found that intervention programs were highly effective in increasing familiarity, confidence, and willingness to transition to Type II helmets. After the intervention, more than 75% of participants expressed a willingness to adopt them.

Despite clear benefits, practical challenges remain. Workers cited barriers such as limited influence over purchasing decisions and entrenched cultural norms. Employers are faced with addressing the cost of implementation, as well as ensuring supplier solutions meet the needs of ironworker welders.

Both Ortega and Vance emphasize the importance of preparation. “If you wait until the last minute, you may end up buying something that doesn’t work well for your crews, and then you must switch to something else. Allow time for testing samples in the field before placing an order,” advised Vance.

Ortega added: “Making the switch must include some education. You’ve got to get your field crew on board—doing so starts with explaining why Type II helmets offer more protection,” said Ortega. He also agreed that gathering feedback from crews before making a purchase are essential.

Tips for Smoother Transition

Vance and Ortega recommend the following steps to simplify the buying process and to ensure workforce acceptance.

• Explain the differences between Type II and Type I helmets, especially regarding protection benefits.

• Use consistent terminology by shifting

from “hard hat” to “safety helmet” and ensure crews understand the vernacular.

• Account for company culture. If helmet color or style distinguishes roles, such as for foremen or leadmen, consider this when selecting products.

• Make a full list of accessories. Gather comprehensive information on all accessories your crews use, such as visors, face shields (clear, shaded, IR filtered, etc.), welding hoods (traditional or auto darkening), ear protection, etc.

• Consider customization and features. Identify if specific colors, ability to customize with your company logo, or features such as ventilation are important.

• Test in the field. Obtain samples, involve workers, and gather input on fit, comfort, and task performance.

What started as research to meet

project-by-project requirements is now a company-wide shift to Type IIs for Perry & Perry Builders, with the full support of Lin Perry, General Manager.

“Change is inevitable, so why fight it? We take these situations as opportunities to improve safety culture and overall employee wellbeing. Creative thinking on how to overcome the obstacles that come along with change is what sets people apart,” said Perry.

The path Perry & Perry Builders took illustrates the importance of partnering with a safety supplier that is proactive. “Beyond helmets, anytime I need to buy safety equipment or PPE, Brian asks about the application to help me find the right product,” said Ortega. “Good customer service and competitive pricing is essential,” he said.

While the industry still faces gaps in product design—particularly for welders— their example shows that with persistence, collaboration, and worker input, solutions are within reach. For companies like Perry & Perry, the switch is no longer just about compliance—it’s about building a safer, stronger culture for the workforce.

The Magic Combo

Ultimately, Perry & Perry Builders settled on two options for their field crews who weld: Studson SHK-1 helmets (no brim) with Securis’s patent-pending mounting adapter for welding shields and Studson SHK-1 helmets (no brim) with Honeywell Speedy Loops.

Branding was important to Perry & Perry Builders, so all the helmets for their ironworkers are navy blue with their logo. “In order to differentiate our foremen and leadmen, who aren’t welding, the company chose traditional brown helmets with no brim, while supervisors wear the brown with full brim style,” said Ortega.

Of the hundreds of combinations Vance tried, these are the solutions he thinks work best for ironworker welders.

• Securis helmets (micro brim, front brim, full brim) with the Securis adapters.

• Studson SHK-1 helmets (no brim) with Securis adapters.

• Studson SHK-1 helmets (no brim) with Honeywell Speedy Loops.

• Studson SHK-1 helmets (no brim) with Miller Halo adapters 222003.

• Milwaukee helmets (no brim) with Honeywell Speedy Loops.

• Milwaukee helmets (no brim) with the Miller 259637 slotted adapters.

Perry & Perry Builders chose to stick with different helmet colors to distinguish the different roles—ironworker, foreman, leadman—which jives with their existing culture and processes.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. When mixing brands of safety equipment it is the safety professionals’ responsibility to ensure the safety and compatibility of all mixed components on their job sites. This can void warranties and safety certifications. By using equipment from different brands, you assume full responsibility for any risks, injuries, or damages that may occur. Neither Columbia Safety or manufacturers are liable.