During the cold weather we are currently experiencing I have noticed more & more lads wearing woolly hats underneath there hard hats (to keep warm) However a main contractor has phoned regarding this practice and asked them to stop due to the effect it has to the hard hat. (should something land on it) I need to do a toolbox talk on this subject and was asking advice from the forum as what to discus or have they had experiences etc Or does anyone have a toolbox talk they can pm me Thanks Alan

The main problem is folks perch their helment on top of the wooly hat. In most cases if they adjust the head strap, a wooly hat is OK so long as its not too thick. Bobs solution is best, but maybe not proportionate and instantly applyable.

Alan I don't know the technicalities of this but surely if the hard hat is fixed firmly on head and not in danger of falling off every time they lean forward then it shouldn't present a problem? I would suggest asking the main contractor what 'effect' that this practice has and, if it is reasonable and based on factual advice, then this will give you the necessary information to provide to workers. Seeking further info as you are doing is the correct approach as simply telling the workers that they can't wear woolly hats underneath hard hats because the main contractor said so and without an explanation as to the reasons why will only need lead to another 'it's health and safety rules' scenario and belittle H & S in the eyes of employees. I obviously stand to be corrected but at least if I am then I will have learned something new today!! Regards FH p.s. If a valid reason is given please let us know

Hi Alan, I wouldn't be too bothered about the effect on the hat, more worried about the effect on the head.