A new video from the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) takes a direct look at one of the most important safety questions facing construction today: What is the real difference between Type I and Type II helmets — and does it matter?
According to testing conducted by Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings, it does. In Episode 3 of the Construction Helmet Research Program series, Dr. Barry Miller walks through the independent testing protocol that evaluates how helmets perform under realistic impact conditions. The data show that 5-star rated Type II helmets can reduce the risk of skull fractures by up to 75 percent compared to traditional Type I hard hats.
The Construction Helmet Research Program is sponsored by JRGF, ELECTRI International, The Association of Union Constructors, and American Society of Concrete Contractors. The goal is straightforward: provide independent, third-party research so contractors can evaluate helmet performance based on measurable outcomes rather than assumptions.
For more information and to follow ongoing helmet ratings for the construction industry, visit the Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings Lab website.
The Six-Part Video Series
To ensure the industry understands the data — and the science behind it — JRGF has produced a six-part short video series that walks contractors step-by-step through the research, testing protocols, findings, and practical implications for construction safety programs. Catch up on what you missed and see what’s coming soon below.
- Explaining the Issue: A clear look at how head injuries occur on construction sites and why lateral impacts deserve more attention. Watch the Video
- Partnering with Virginia Tech Helmet Labs: Why the industry engaged an independent, nationally recognized testing lab to conduct objective evaluations. Watch the Video
- Inside the Testing Process: A detailed explanation of impact testing methods, instrumented headforms, and how linear and rotational forces are measured. Watch the Video | Download the Video
- The Star Rating System: How helmets are evaluated beyond minimum standards and how performance differences are quantified. Coming Soon!
- Explaining the Results: What the data shows about Type I versus Type II performance and how the 75 percent reduction figure was calculated. Coming Soon!
- Why This Matters to Construction: Practical guidance for contractors evaluating head protection policies in real-world jobsite conditions. Coming Soon!
