HATS OFF TEST
“We agree that
if you are the type of individual whose head meets the standards for protection,
you don't need a hard hat. Those
feeling they can qualify should contact Harvey Harnish for testing.”
“Upon
satisfactory completion of the test, you will receive a beautiful embossed
certificate suitable for framing. It
identifies your head as conforming to American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) Z89.2, Classes A, B, C and D. You
will also receive a wallet-sized card that must be carried on the job site.”
“The
test goes like this:
1.
You will receive a
24-hour water immersion test. Maximum
permitted absorption is 0.5 percent by weight.
2.
Next, the impact test.
While in horizontal position with head upon a steel plate, an eight-pound
steel ball will be dropped upon your head from a height of 15 feet. You must suffer no damage.
3.
Your head will then be
subjected to a variety of acids, solvents and oils and sustain no damage or
deficiencies.
4.
A propane torch will be
used to determine if your head is fire resistant.
If only slow-burning, you will receive an A or a B rating.
If holes appear in your head, a C or D rating will be given.
5.
In the final test, your
head must sustain 2,200 volts AC, 60 Hz, for three minutes, with leakage
currents not exceeding nine milliamperes.
6.
All tests must be
conducted at a variety of temperatures ranging from minus 20 to 140 degrees
Fahrenheit.”
“If you feel
you cannot qualify, don't despair. Although
not as pretty as your hairdo, the hard hat does provide protection from all of
the above.”