Helmet Classes Explained (Class G, E & C)

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Quick Answer

ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 sorts safety helmets into three electrical classes. Class G (General) is proof tested at 2,200 volts for low-voltage exposure. Class E (Electrical) is proof tested at 20,000 volts for higher-voltage exposure. Class C (Conductive) offers no electrical protection and is usually vented. Class is separate from Type, which covers impact direction.

Helmet Class vs. Helmet Type: Two Different Ratings

Every ANSI-compliant safety helmet carries two ratings. Type tells you which direction of impact it is built for: Type I for blows to the top of the head, Type II for blows to the top and sides. Class tells you how much protection it offers against electrical contact. A helmet can be Type II and Class C, or Type I and Class E. You have to read both.

OSHA's Safety and Health Information Bulletin on safety helmets puts it simply: two Types (impact) and three Classes (electrical) of head protection are recognized under ANSI/ISEA Z89.1. For the impact side, see Type I vs. Type II safety helmets.

Class G Helmets: General Electrical Protection

OSHA's bulletin describes Class G (General) head protection as designed to reduce exposure to low-voltage conductors, proof tested at 2,200 volts (phase to ground). Class G is the common choice for general construction, manufacturing, and site work where workers could brush against low-voltage wiring but are not working near energized lines. OSHA chose Type II, Class G safety helmets for its own employees after a Job Hazard Analysis.

Class E Helmets: High-Voltage Electrical Protection

Class E (Electrical) head protection is designed to reduce exposure to higher-voltage conductors and is proof tested at 20,000 volts (phase to ground). It is the class for utility line work, electricians, substation work, and any job where the head could contact exposed energized conductors.

That matches OSHA's rule. Under 29 CFR 1910.135(a)(2), employers must ensure that a protective helmet designed to reduce electrical shock hazard is worn by each affected employee when near exposed electrical conductors that could contact the head. The construction counterpart is 29 CFR 1926.100.

Proof test voltages are not working voltage ratings. A Class E helmet reduces the danger of accidental contact. It does not replace de-energizing, lockout/tagout, insulated tools, minimum approach distances, or qualified-worker rules.

Class C Helmets: Conductive, No Electrical Protection

Class C (Conductive) head protection is not intended to provide protection against contact with electrical hazards. Most vented helmets are Class C, because vent openings create a path to the head. OSHA's bulletin is direct: vented hard hats or safety helmets cannot be used for electrical work.

Class C is not a lesser helmet. A vented Type II Class C helmet can offer excellent impact protection and much better airflow in heat. It is the right choice where there is no electrical exposure, such as many roofing, framing, concrete, and hot-weather jobs.

How To Choose The Right Helmet Class

Start with your hazard assessment. OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.132(d) requires employers to assess hazards and select PPE that protects against them. Then match:

• Exposed energized conductors or utility work: Class E, non-vented.
• General construction with possible incidental contact: Class G or Class E, non-vented.
• No electrical exposure, heat is a concern: Class C vented is acceptable.
• Mixed crews or unknown tasks: standardize on non-vented Class E so one helmet covers every job.

Accessories matter too. Metal attachments, conductive stickers, or drilled holes can compromise a helmet's electrical rating. Use only manufacturer-approved accessories, and never drill or modify the shell. See choosing the right safety helmet for a full selection guide.

Where Helmet Class Appears On The Label

Look inside the shell for the Z89.1 marking, followed by Type and Class, for example "ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014 (R2019) Type II Class E." Helmets made to the new Z89.1-2026 edition will carry the same Class letters. OSHA's bulletin also says to confirm labels are legible and have not been tampered with. If you cannot read the class, treat the helmet as Class C until you confirm it.

Helmet Class And Electrical Safety Key Statistics

• 2,200 volts: Class G proof test. 20,000 volts: Class E proof test (OSHA SHIB 3-6-2024).
• 5,070 U.S. workers died from work injuries in 2024, including 1,032 construction and extraction workers (BLS CFOI, February 19, 2026).
• 20,000 volts: dielectric protection Hardknock lists for its non-vented Resolve FullBrim (Hardknock).

Class E And Class C Type II Safety Helmets

STUDSON SHK-1 Full Brim. Non-Vented (Type II, Class E) for electrical exposure | Vented (Type II, Class C) for heat with no electrical exposure.

Hardknock Resolve FullBrim. Non-Vented (Type II, Class E) for electrical exposure | Vented (Type II, Class C)

Manufacturer details: Studson dual-certified SHK-1 and Hardknock FAQs.

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Related Helmet Class And Head Protection Resources

Understanding ANSI Z89.1. The standard behind Type and Class.

OSHA head protection standards. What the regulations require.

How to inspect a safety helmet. Keep the rating you paid for.

Frequently Asked Questions About Helmet Classes

Q: Can a vented helmet be Class E?

A: No. Vents compromise electrical insulation. OSHA says vented helmets cannot be used for electrical work.

Q: What happened to Class A and Class B?

A: Those are the old designations. Older Z89.1 editions used A and B; current editions use G and E.

Q: Does Class E protect me if I touch a live line?

A: It reduces the risk to the head from accidental contact. It is not a substitute for de-energizing and approach distances.

Q: Do stickers affect the class?

A: They can. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on decals, and avoid metallic or conductive materials.

Match Helmet Class To The Job With BDG Safety

BDG Safety helps safety managers and contracting officers spec the right Type and Class for every crew. Call (619) 992-7621 or email info@bulldoggroup.net. BDG Safety is a Navy-veteran-founded, certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) that supplies Type II safety helmets and PPE to contractors, agencies, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Real people who know the gear, no phone menus. Open a B2B account or see how to buy.

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