Safety is more than a priority—it is the standard that guides every decision we make. This standard means we commit to continuous improvement and proactive risk reduction on every job at every project. To own this standard, we are beginning to transition to ANSI Type 2 hard hats across our workforce when we return from the July 4th holiday.
As we slowly phase out Type 1 hard hats, remember that replacing equipment is never for the sake of change. This transition is about providing our workforce with the best protection available while responsibly phasing out the old to invest in new solutions that reduce significant risks.
Unlike traditional Type 1 hard hats, which primarily protect against impacts from above, Type 2 hard hats provide protection to the top, sides, front, and back of the head—areas where many serious injuries occur and Type 1 hard hats can’t protect you.
Existing Type 1 hard hats will not be immediately replaced. Instead, we are implementing a phased approach. Maximize the use of your current Type 1 hard hats, and when you need to purchase new equipment, Type 2 hard hats will be the equipment available to purchase. This strategy ensures we continue to be good stewards of project and taxpayer dollars while raising the standard of protection for our workforce over time.
Over the coming months, employees, supervisors, subcontractors, and safety professionals are encouraged to help identify preferred products, ask questions, and ensure the transition is successful. Our goal is not simply to issue new equipment—it is to provide equipment that our workforce trust, support, and want to wear.
Every improvement we make is rooted in the same principle: sending every person home the same way they came to work. Thank you for embracing this next step in strengthening our safety culture.
Be safe and continue to own the standard over the holiday, a well-deserved break for you all.
Jimmy Hughes
Senior Vice President of Safety, Security, Health, and Quality Assurance
