Pomerleau Commits to a More Sustainable Industry
ESG
The construction industry is undergoing rapid evolution. Health and safety practices are keeping pace to provide increasingly effective protection for workers. Among the most concerning risks, head impacts remain a major cause of serious injuries.
Head injuries account for approximately 25% of construction fatalities, and more than 50% result from falls. In these situations, the most dangerous impacts often come from the sides, front, or back. Traditional equipment is not designed to effectively absorb these shocks.
It is to address these challenges that the sector is gradually shirting to Type 2 hard hats with chin straps, a more robust solution better suited to the realities of construction sites.
A National Mobilization to Strengthen Occupational Health and Safety Standards
As of July 1, 2026, members of the Canadian Construction Safety Council (CCSC), including Pomerleau, will make the wearing of Type 2 hard hats with chin straps mandatory on all their construction sites. This initiative includes employees, specialized partners, and visitors.
This collective effort is part of a clear vision: to protect everyone on construction sites by implementing practices aligned with the highest industry standards.
Why Type 2 Hard Hats Really Improve Safety on Construction Sites
Type 2 hard hats stand out thanks to a design that provides comprehensive protection. Unlike Type 1 hard hats, which primarily protect the top of the head, Type 2 models reduce the risks associated with angled impacts.
Essential Lateral Protection
Side, oblique, or rear impacts are among the most likely to cause serious injuries. Type 2 hard hats incorporate a higher-performance liner that absorbs these forces more effectively.
The Chin Strap: A Crucial Detail for Safety
During an incident, a hard hat can easily come loose without proper support. The chin strap ensures that the hard hat stays securely in place, a role comparable to that of a bicycle or ski helmet. This simple mechanism significantly reduces the risk of serious injury.
A gradual transition adapted to the realities of construction sites
The transition to Type 2 hard hats will take place in collaboration with field teams and specialized partners. The goal is to foster a smooth integration based on communication, support, and an understanding of the workers' real needs.
A forward-thinking decision
By implementing Type 2 hard hats with chin straps, we aim to protect everyone on our construction sites. Our priority is to ensure that each of our workers, partners, and visitors can perform their work with confidence and, above all, return home safely to their families.
Every action count, and this measure represents a concrete step toward building safer work environments, day after day.
Questions about this new standard?
For any questions related to this new industry standard, please consult our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). You can also contact us at sst.hs@pomerleau.ca, or speak directly to your employer, who can assist you with this transition.
