Why MIPS® Hard Hats Could Be the Future of Worker Safety

At MDS Associates, safety has always been our top priority. For almost four decades, we have supplied hardworking teams with the protective equipment they rely on every day. Now, an innovation in head protection is changing the way we think about workplace safety: MIPS® technology.

For nearly 100 years the basic purpose of hard hats has remained the same - to help protect the head against workplace impacts from falling objects from above.  Fast forward and today data is telling industry that with nearly 60% of head injuries are caused by fall accidents from higher levels or falls on the same level, it's time to move forward!

THE SCIENCE OF HEAD INJURY

Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries are Commonly the Result of Rotational Force and Strain to the Brain.

Injury statistics demonstrate that when someone trips on a level surface,  they are more likely to fall at an angle instead of directly on top of the head. This is due to the forward energy of motion that may extend to the head when hitting the hard ground surface. Over the past few years, science has shown that our brains are very sensitive to rotational forces.

WHAT IS MIPS®?

MIPS® stands for Multi-Directional Impact Protection System; a technology originally developed for sports helmets. MIPS® is a safety feature engineered by experts to address a critical gap in head protection: rotational impacts. 

While traditional hard hats are effective against direct impacts—like something falling straight onto the head—real-world accidents often happen at an angle. These angled impacts can cause the head to rotate suddenly, transferring dangerous forces to the brain and increasing the risk of concussions or traumatic brain injuries.

MIPS® solves this problem by adding a low friction slip layer inside the hard hat. This layer allows the helmet to shift slightly (10–15 mm) relative to the head during an angled impact, helping to reduce rotational forces and provide an extra layer of safety.

WHY CONSIDER MIPS® HARD HATS?

Here’s why forward-thinking companies are exploring MIPS®-equipped hard hats:

● ✅ Enhanced protection – Guards against both direct and rotational impacts.

● ✅ Lightweight comfort – The MIPS® layer adds safety without bulk.

● ✅ Reputation for safety leadership – Show your workforce and clients you are investing in innovative protection.

● ✅ Peace of mind – Workers can work in confidence knowing their hard features the most advanced safety technology available.

KEEP IN MIND

● ⚠️ Cost – MIPS® hard hats are a premium option, but the added protection can outweigh the investment.

● ⚠️ Availability – Currently offered in fewer models, though more manufacturers are adding them every year.

● ⚠️ Standards – They meet OSHA/ANSI requirements, but rotational protection is not yet mandatory—meaning companies that adopt MIPS® are going above and beyond.

MIPS® vs. STANDARD HARD HATS: QUICK COMPARISON

Feature                               Standard Hard Hat                MIPS® Hard Hat

Impact Protection              Direct Impacts                         Direct impacts + rotational force reduction

Rotational Protection        NO                                           YES

Comfort/Weight                Lightweight                              Similar, minimal difference

Cost                                    Lower                                       Higher (premium)

Best For                             General Use                             High-risk environments

IS MIPS® FOR YOUR TEAM?

If your crews face environments where angled impacts are a possibility—construction, utilities, forestry, or heavy equipment operations—MIPS® hard hats are worth thoughtful consideration. While they come at a higher price point, the added protection, improved worker confidence, and long-term safety benefits can make them a valuable investment.

FINAL WORD

At MDS Associates, we are committed to keeping workers safe with the latest innovations in personal protective gear. Whether you are ready to explore MIPS® hard hats or want guidance on the best safety equipment for your team, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about MIPS® hard hats and how they can enhance your safety program.

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