Your hard hat is one of your most important pieces of personal protective equipment. Did you know that there are signs that show that it may no longer keep you safe? Before and after each use, it should be inspected for any wear or damage that might have accrued. 

A general inspection process includes:

1. Look at the shell of the hard hat for any breakage, cracks, craze patterns, discoloring, chalky appearance, or anything that appears out of the norm.
2. Inspect the suspension for loss of flexibility, cracks, breaks, frays, or damaged stitching.
   
3. Know if any impact or penetration occurred during the time it’s been in service.
4. If any of these conditions exist, it’s time for a replacement of the shell or suspension, or both.