Keeping your head safe is simple in concept — and more complex in practice. Between workplace safety laws, helmet standards, and the real-world differences between climbing helmets and construction hard hats, it can be difficult to determine what is truly compliant and appropriate for arborist work in Ontario.

This guide explains what Ontario law requires, how CSA and EN standards differ, when each applies, and how to choose and inspect a helmet correctly for tree work.

Under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), employers and workers share responsibility for personal protective equipment. Employers must assess hazards, provide appropriate head protection, and ensure it is used wherever there is a risk of head injury. Workers are required to use the protection provided.

On construction projects, Ontario Regulation 213/91 requires protective headwear that meets recognized performance standards, typically CSA Z94.1. The regulation also outlines electrical performance requirements depending on the work being performed.

In practical terms, if arborists are working on or adjacent to a construction site, their head protection must meet the same regulatory requirements as other workers on that site. Even self-employed arborists are expected to comply with OHSA and use appropriate protective equipment.

Understanding helmet markings is critical for compliance and safety.

CSA Group Z94.1 is the Canadian standard for industrial protective headwear and is the primary reference under Ontario law. Helmets certified to this standard will display markings such as CSA Z94.1-15 (R2020).

CSA helmets are classified by Type and Class.

Type 1 helmets protect against impact and penetration at the crown (top) only.
Type 2 helmets protect against impact and penetration at both the crown and the sides.

Electrical classes indicate dielectric protection:

Class E: High-voltage protection (up to 20,000 volts)
Class G: General low-voltage protection (up to 2,200 volts)
Class C: No electrical protection

If a jobsite does not specify otherwise, CSA Z94.1 certification remains the default benchmark for industrial compliance in Ontario.

EN 12492 is a European climbing and rope-access standard widely used in arboriculture. It evaluates side and vertical impacts, penetration resistance, and retention system strength, including chinstrap performance. These features are especially important when working aloft, where lateral impacts and helmet retention are critical.

Climbing-style helmets certified to EN 12492 are well suited for pruning, removals, and aerial rigging where movement, balance, and side protection matter more than high-voltage dielectric insulation.

ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 is the U.S. equivalent to CSA Z94.1. Many helmets carry multiple certifications, such as CSA, ANSI, and EN markings. Dual or triple certification is acceptable, provided one of those standards satisfies your workplace’s regulatory requirement.

The CSA Z94.1 standard does not assign specific colours to job roles. While some companies implement internal colour-coding systems for supervisors, apprentices, or new workers, there is no provincial requirement tied to helmet colour.

Choosing the right helmet depends on the environment and hazards present.

Climbing-style helmets, typically certified to EN 12492, are designed for secure retention, side and rear impact protection, accessory integration, and comfort during vertical movement. Their chinstrap systems prevent dislodgement when bending, twisting, or working in awkward positions. These features make them highly suitable for arborists working in a harness.

Construction hard hats, typically certified to CSA Z94.1, are primarily designed for protection from falling objects striking the top of the head. Depending on their electrical class, they may also provide dielectric protection. Many traditional hard hats do not include chinstraps unless added as approved accessories.

As a practical recommendation, climbing-style helmets are generally ideal for standard tree climbing and rigging work. However, when working on construction sites, near energized conductors, or under client-specific PPE policies, a CSA-certified helmet of the required electrical class must be used.

Even a fully certified helmet can fail if worn incorrectly. The suspension or internal fit system should be adjusted so the helmet sits snugly and does not shift when bending or turning the head. It must be worn in the intended orientation, typically brim forward unless otherwise designed.

Baseball caps, thick hoods, or unapproved liners should not be worn underneath. Only manufacturer-approved liners and accessories should be used to ensure performance is not compromised.

Before purchasing or issuing a helmet, confirm that it carries the appropriate certification marking (CSA Z94.1, EN 12492, or both) and that the version year is legible. Ensure the retention system is secure and adjustable, especially for climbing applications. Verify that the helmet provides adequate side-impact protection if it will be used aloft.

If electrical exposure is possible, confirm the helmet’s class rating. Test fit the helmet with other PPE such as eye protection and hearing protection to ensure compatibility. Finally, retain manufacturer documentation for compliance and training purposes.

Regular inspection is essential. The outer shell should be examined for cracks, dents, discoloration, brittleness, or soft spots. The suspension and liner should be checked for fraying, hardening, or damage. Chinstraps must remain secure and intact. Certification labels must remain legible.

Any helmet that has sustained an impact should be replaced immediately, even if visible damage is minimal.

Most manufacturers recommend a service life of three to five years, though UV exposure, chemical contact, or heavy use can significantly shorten that period. Always check the manufacture date inside the helmet and follow the manufacturer’s guidance.

Helmets should be stored away from direct sunlight, fuels, solvents, and excessive heat. Drilling or painting the shell should only be done if explicitly permitted by the manufacturer.

Under Ontario’s OHSA, employers must assess hazards, provide suitable head protection at no cost to workers, train employees on proper selection and care, and enforce PPE use wherever required by law or jobsite conditions.

In limited circumstances, PPE requirements may intersect with religious or cultural headwear. Employers should consult guidance from appropriate provincial resources to ensure compliance with both safety legislation and human rights obligations while maintaining worker protection.

For arborists, a helmet is more than a compliance requirement. It is a critical life-safety component. The right choice depends on the hazards present, the regulatory environment, and the type of work being performed.

Check the certification label.
Confirm the fit.
Inspect it regularly.

And when in doubt, replace it.

• Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development — Occupational Health and Safety Act & O. Reg. 213/91
• CSA Group — CSA Z94.1 Industrial Protective Headwear