Why More and More Jobsites Are Switching to Type II Safety Helmets
New Safety Requirements Are Reshaping Canadian Jobsites
Safety helmets are undergoing a major evolution across the construction industry. Long dominated by Type I helmets, the market is steadily shifting toward Type II safety helmets that provide enhanced protection against impacts from multiple directions.
This transition is accelerating across Canada. As of July 1, 2026, several major contractors that are members of the Canadian Construction Safety Council now require Type II safety helmets with chin straps on their jobsites. This shift reflects the industry's ever-evolving safety standards and its commitment to better protecting workers.
While Type II helmets are not yet mandatory on all jobsites in Quebec, they are quickly becoming the new benchmark for professionals who refuse to compromise on safety.
Type I vs. Type II: What's the Difference?
Safety helmets that comply with CSA Z94.1 standards are divided into two main categories.
Type I Safety Helmets
Type I safety helmets are designed to protect workers from impacts to the top of the head only. They remain widely used across jobsites today.
Type II Safety Helmets
Type II safety helmets provide additional protection against impacts to:
- The top of the head
- The sides of the head
- The front of the head
- The back of the head
This added protection can make a significant difference in the event of a fall, a lateral impact or an unexpected collision on the jobsite.
Because workplace accidents don't always occur from above, Type II safety helmets are better suited to the realities of today's worksites.
Why Is the Industry Adopting Type II Safety Helmets?
Safety standards continue to evolve throughout the construction industry. Several Canadian companies have already adopted Type II safety helmets with integrated chin straps to provide greater protection for their workers.
This growing trend is driven by several key advantages:
- Enhanced multi-directional impact protection
- Improved helmet retention in the event of a fall
- Advanced safety technologies designed for today's jobsites
- Increasingly rigorous safety requirements among major contractors
Choosing a Type II safety helmet today is also a way to prepare for the safety standards shaping the jobsites of tomorrow.
STUDSON®: A New Generation of Safety Helmets
Designed for the demands of today's jobsites, STUDSON® safety helmets deliver premium protection without compromising comfort. Combining cutting-edge technologies inspired by action sports and industrial safety standards, they provide enhanced protection when it matters most.
Innovative KOROYD® Impact Protection
At the core of every STUDSON® safety helmet is KOROYD®, an advanced impact protection technology made of thousands of thermally welded tubes engineered to absorb energy during an impact.
When a collision occurs, the tubes crush in a controlled manner to reduce the energy transferred to the head. This innovative design also promotes exceptional airflow without compromising protection.
twICEme® Technology: Critical Information When Every Second Counts
Every STUDSON® safety helmet features integrated twICEme® technology, allowing workers to securely store emergency contact and important medical information accessible through any NFC-enabled smartphone.
In the event of an accident, first responders and coworkers can quickly access this information to help facilitate a faster and more effective response.
FIDLOCK® Magnetic Chin Strap
The FIDLOCK® magnetic buckle system allows workers to quickly secure or remove the chin strap, even while wearing gloves.
Designed for both convenience and safety, it helps keep the helmet securely in place when it's needed most.
Designed for All-Day Comfort
STUDSON® safety helmets are built with comfort in mind and feature:
- A precise 360° fit system
- One-handed rear dial adjustment
- An adjustable brow pad for improved comfort
- Compatibility with a variety of accessories
- A lightweight and well-balanced design for all-day wear
Class C or Class E: Which Safety Helmet Is Right for You?
STUDSON® safety helmets are available in multiple configurations to meet the needs of different trades and work environments.
Class C – Vented Safety Helmets
Class C models are designed to maximize airflow and comfort during hot weather and physically demanding tasks.
They are ideal for construction professionals working in environments where electrical hazards are not present.
Class E – Non-Vented Safety Helmets
Class E models are designed for environments that require electrical protection.
Their non-vented design makes them an excellent choice for electricians and professionals working around high-voltage hazards.
The Future of Jobsite Safety Has Already Begun
A safety helmet is no longer just another piece of required personal protective equipment. It has become an essential tool designed to address the realities of modern jobsites.
With the growing adoption of Type II safety helmets across Canada, evolving safety requirements and innovative technologies such as KOROYD®, twICEme® and FIDLOCK®, the industry's standards continue to move forward.
STUDSON® safety helmets are part of this new generation of personal protective equipment, offering enhanced protection, exceptional comfort and advanced technologies designed for professionals who demand more from their gear.
Discover the STUDSON® collection at Outils Pierre Berger and experience the next generation of jobsite safety.
