New Canadian Construction Standard - Type 2 Helmets

The move to Type 2 safety helmets is happening across more than just the rope access industry. Construction companies across Canada are making the switch to helmets that provide better protection from impacts to the top, front, sides, and back of the head.

On July 1, 2026, the Canadian Construction Safety Council (CCSC) introduced a new requirement for all workers, subcontractors, and visitors on CCSC member job sites to wear Type 2 safety helmets with integrated four-point chin straps.

The change is based on growing research showing that many serious head injuries don't come from falling objects they happen during slips, trips, and falls, often from heights of less than six feet.

Ryan Barnes, Founder and CEO of STUDSON, explained it best:

"If you look at the data, most head injuries come from six feet or less from slips, trips, and falls. There's a huge misconception that you only need good head protection or a Type 2 helmet with a chin strap if you work at height. That's not true. That's not what the data shows."

Research referenced by the CCSC also found that, compared with traditional Type 1 hard hats, Type 2 helmets can:

• Reduce the probability of concussion by approximately 34%
• Reduce the risk of skull fracture by approximately 65%

With traumatic brain injuries responsible for about 25% of construction-related fatalities, it's easy to see why more companies are making the switch. Type 2 helmets provide improved protection from impacts coming from multiple directions, helping keep workers safer on today's job sites.

This version is shorter, easier to scan, and better suited to a modern blog while still keeping the key facts and statistics.