One of the most important factors of Occupational Safety and Health is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which includes gloves, helmets, safety boots and other items. Key among the list is safety helmets which protect workers from various head injuries including impacts from falling objects, electrical hazards, and collisions with machinery in high-risk industries like construction, manufacturing, and mining.
As we continue to observe Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Month 2025, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) seeks to educate stakeholders on the importance of using protective helmets that adhere to the National Standard – GYS 563:2020 – Requirements for Industrial Safety Helmets.
The document was developed with inputs from the American National Standard for Industrial Head Protection (AMSI/ISEA Z89.1) along with the ISO Standard 3873 and the British Standard BS EN 397 focused on Industrial safety helmets. It specifies physical and performance requirements, methods of testing, and marking requirements for industrial safety helmets. Further, optional performance requirements are included to apply where specifically claimed by the manufacturer of the safety helmets.
Defined as a headgear primarily intended to protect the upper part of the wearer’s head, the standard stated that helmets should include at least a shell and a harness. The shell shall have as uniform a strength as possible and shall not be reinforced at any point. Additionally, the outer surface shall be smoothly finished while the profile at the front edge shall not prevent the wearing of spectacles or goggles.
Mandatory requirements of an industrial safety helmet according to the standard, include shock absorption, resistance to penetration, flame resistance, chin strap anchorages and appropriate labels. Optional requirements with the appropriate test methods provided in the document include electrical properties, the helmet’s ability to withstand very high temperatures, and its ability to withstand molten metal splash.
As the Bureau joins in observing OSH month 2025, employers and employees in the construction, mining and other industries are encouraged to ensure their industrial safety helmets adhere to the requirements of the National Standard. By adhering to established Safety Standards, businesses can mitigate risks, protect workers’ well-being, and create safer work environments for all. For more information, the GYS 563 National Standard can be purchased from the GNBS at an affordable cost of $6,100.
This year’s OSH month is being observed under the theme “Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalization at Work”. As we observe this month of activities, the GNBS urges employers and workers alike to prioritize safety by adhering to established standards and regulations. Together, we can build a culture of safety consciousness and protect every worker in Guyana’s workforce.
For more information, contact the GNBS on telephone numbers: 219-0064-66 or WhatsApp: 692-4627. You can also visit the GNBS website: www.gnbsgy.org
