Klein Tools Hard Hat Instructions
This document provides instructions for Klein Tools Hard Hats, covering various models and their features. Please read all instructions carefully before use to ensure safe operation.
General Specifications
These Klein Tools Hard Hats comply with Type I ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014 and CSA Z94.1-15 standards.
- Class E non-vented Hard Hats have been tested up to 20kV.
- EN397:2012+A1:2012 (Clauses listed only): 5.2.4-Lateral Deformation (LD)
- EN12492:2012 (Listed clauses only): 4.2.1.2-Front Energy Absorption Capacity, 4.2.1.3-Side Energy Absorption Capacity, 4.2.1.4-Rear Energy Absorption Capacity
- Standards compliance for different areas: TOP: Z89.1/Z94.1, FRONT: EN12492, BACK: EN12492, SIDES: EN12492, DEFORMATION: EN397* (*Full-brim models only).
- Fits Head Sizes 6-1/2 to 8 (20-1/2 to 25 inches / 52 to 64 cm).
Symbols on Product (FIG. A)
The following symbols may be found on the product:
- 1. Reverse donning logo: Indicates the hard hat can be worn backward.
- 2. Compliant Standards, Class, Type, and Head Size information: Text label detailing compliance standards, class, type, and head size.
- 3. Recycling Code and material type: Symbol indicating the plastic material type and its recycling code.
- 4. Date of manufacture: Text indicating the month and year of production.
Warning Labels (FIG. B)
Two warning labels are affixed to the inside of this hard hat. Read, understand, and follow these instructions to ensure safe operation. DO NOT REMOVE THESE LABELS.
WARNINGS
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS BODILY INJURY OR DEATH.
- This hard hat provides LIMITED protection from small objects striking the top, front, back, left and right sides. This is NOT an ANSI/CSA Type II hard hat.
- DO NOT expose suspension and padding to open flame.
- ELECTRICAL WARNING: Avoid areas where the chance of electrical shock exists. Non-vented versions meet Class E requirements by providing limited electrical protection. Class C vented models provide NO electrical protection.
- If the hard hat has sustained an impact, dispose of it IMMEDIATELY, even if damage is not visible.
- NEVER alter, puncture, modify or engrave the shell or the suspension.
- DO NOT use paints, solvents, chemicals, adhesives, gasoline or like substances on this hard hat – doing so can lessen the protection offered against impact and penetration.
- DO NOT use this hard hat as a vehicular or recreational hard hat.
- DO NOT store objects between the suspension and the shell, as the hard hat will not function as intended and can lessen the protection from impact and penetration.
- Exposure to direct sunlight, corrosive environments, and/or extreme temperatures below -40°F (-40°C) or above 120°F (49°C) can lessen the ability of the hard hat to withstand impact and penetration.
Maintenance
Hard Hat Cleaning and Storage
- Clean the hard hat and suspension with mild soap and water only. Rinse and wipe dry.
- Clean optional chin strap with a damp cloth only.
- Store in a cool place.
- Refer to the SWEATBAND AND TOP COMFORT PAD section for additional maintenance information.
Inspection and Replacement
Inspect the hard hat, including the suspension and shell, before and after each use:
- Check the Hard Hat's shell for any cracks, breakage, discoloration, chalky appearance, or any other damage, excessive wear, or unusual condition. These conditions may indicate reduced impact or penetration resistance and the Hard Hat must be replaced IMMEDIATELY.
- The suspension and optional chin strap should be checked for cracks, breaks, damaged stitching, or any other damage, excessive wear, or unusual condition. If any of these conditions exist, the suspension and optional chin strap must be replaced IMMEDIATELY.
- Always use genuine Klein Tools replacement parts. This product works as a system, and use of unauthorized suspensions may reduce the protection you receive from this hard hat.
Useful Life
- SUSPENSION AND OPTIONAL CHIN STRAP: Must be replaced after no more than 12 months of use.
- ENTIRE HARD HAT: Entire Hard Hat should be replaced after 2 years of use, or no more than 5 years from the date of manufacture, whichever comes first.
These are useful service life guidelines. Regular inspection as detailed in the MAINTENANCE section above MUST be performed, and may result in possible earlier replacement.
NOTE: This replacement schedule is a guideline that assumes normal use and storage conditions for the hard hat. If the hard hat is exposed to temperature extremes, persistent sunlight, or chemicals, replacement may be required in a shorter time frame.
Warranty
Refer to Klein Tools for specific warranty information.
Accessories and Replacement Parts
Klein Tools hard hat accessories and replacement parts are available online or at major distributors:
- KHHSPN: Replacement Suspension
- KHHSWTBND: Sweatband (3-pack)
- KHHTOPPAD: Top Comfort Pad (3-pack)
- KHHSTRP: Chin Strap
- 56049: Rechargeable Light Array Headlamp (Flood only)
- 56062: Rechargeable Headlamp / Worklight (Spot/Flood)
- 56048: Rechargeable Auto-Off Headlamp (Spot/Flood)
- 56063: Safety Lamp
- 60156: Intrinsically Safe LED Headlamp
NOTE: KLEIN TOOLS CANNOT GUARANTEE THAT THIRD-PARTY ACCESSORIES WILL PERFORM OR FIT OPTIMALLY WITH KLEIN TOOLS HARD HATS.
Disposal / Recycle
Do not place hard hat or its accessories in the trash. Items must be properly disposed of in accordance with local regulations. See www.epa.gov/recycle for additional information.
Feature Details (FIG. C)
Diagram FIG. C illustrates various features of the hard hat:
- 5. Universal accessory slots: Slots on the hard hat for attaching universal accessories.
- 6. Klein Tools accessory slots: Specific slots designed for Klein Tools accessories.
- 7. Vents with shutter (C-Class only): Openings on the sides of Class C hard hats that can be covered by adjustable shutters.
- 8. Pivot adjustment: Mechanism allowing adjustment of accessory mounting points.
- 9. Size adjustment knob: A rotary knob, typically at the rear, used to adjust the suspension fit.
- 10. Rear neck pad: A padded area at the back of the suspension that rests on the neck.
- 11. Suspension strap anchor slots: Points where the suspension straps attach to the shell.
- 12. Washable sweatband: A removable band inside the hat that absorbs sweat.
- 13. Washable top comfort pad: A removable padded insert for the top of the head.
- 14. Suspension straps: Straps that form the suspension system, holding the hat on the head.
- 15. Reflective sticker locations: Designated areas on the hard hat where reflective stickers can be applied.
- 16. Suspension bracket: Part of the suspension that connects to the shell via slots.
- 17. Bracket key: A component that locks the suspension bracket into the shell slots.
- 18. Bracket key slots: Slots on the hard hat shell where the bracket key is inserted to adjust suspension height.
Fitting (FIG. D)
All hard hats come with suspension pre-installed at factory settings. The suspension can be adjusted to ensure a proper and secure fit to your head for maximum protection. Follow the steps below:
- Turn the size adjustment knob (9) counterclockwise to loosen the fit. Position the rear pad (10) on the back of your head, closer to the neck. Dress any bandana knots or ponytails over the rear neck pad (10).
- Tighten by turning the size adjustment knob (9) clockwise until the hard hat is comfortable and snug. Move your head up, down, and side-to-side gently, like you would normally, and make sure the hard hat stays on. Make sure that the hard hat is not angled forward or backward, but rests level on your head.
Adjustments (FIG. E)
If the hard hat does not fit properly at the factory settings, you can further adjust the fit:
- Free the suspension by turning the suspension bracket (16) approximately 90 degrees to free the bracket key (17) from the bracket key slots (18).
- Determine which slot (18) you want to reattach to. Using the bracket slots deeper in the hard hat will move it higher on the head, and vice versa. Insert the bracket key (17) and turn the bracket (16) approximately 90 degrees to lock into place. Always match the settings on the left and right sides to prevent the suspension from sitting at an angle.
- Verify the hard hat fits properly. Follow the steps in the FITTING section to ensure proper fit. Ensure that accessories you plan to use fit and function properly while maintaining the hard hat's ability to perform its function optimally. Check with a qualified safety expert if unsure.
NOTE: The suspension strap lengths are fixed and cannot be adjusted. DO NOT attempt to alter.
Reverse Donning (FIG. F)
NOTE: Some jobsites may not permit reverse donning – Check with your jobsite's Safety Supervisor before changing your hard hat to this configuration.
- Place your forefinger under the strap anchor, and your thumb over the anchor slot (11). Push up with your forefinger using enough force to release the anchor from the slot. Do this for all anchor slots (4 total). NOTE: DO NOT pull on the suspension straps to free the anchor. This could permanently damage the straps, preventing them from performing as intended.
- Make any height adjustments for the suspension before installation.
- Push down each anchor until a click is heard and the anchor cannot be pushed down any further. Do this for all 4 anchors. NOTE: DO NOT use sharp tools that may damage the anchors, or pull on the straps to secure the anchors.
- Check proper installation by pushing up on all 4 anchor bases. The anchors should remain fully seated in their slots. If not, repeat STEP 3.
- Verify the hard hat fits properly. Follow the steps in the FITTING section to ensure proper fit. Also ensure that accessories you plan to use fit and function properly while maintaining the hard hat's ability to perform optimally.
Sweatband and Top Comfort Pad (FIG. H)
Klein Tools hard hats come with an advanced sweatband and top comfort pad designed to wick away sweat. They are machine washable in a normal wash cycle. Do NOT wash with bleach or with detergents containing bleach. Machine dry on normal or low heat setting only.
The sweatband and top comfort pad can be easily removed and reinstalled on the suspension:
- The top comfort pad is held in place by a single hook-and-loop pad (25).
- The sweatband is held in place by four suspension hooks and three hook-and-loop pads (25), on the side and front. To remove, simply detach all hook-and-loop pads and slide the sweatband off the suspension hooks.
Vents (C-CLASS ONLY)
Klein Tools Class C hard hats have vents and shutters on both sides. The vents can be adjusted by simply sliding the shutter tabs (7) up or down.
NOTE: The vents and shutters will NOT prevent vapors, liquids, or debris smaller than the vents from entering the hard hat.
Optional 56062 Headlamp (FIG. G)
The optional 56062 is a rechargeable headlamp designed specifically for Klein hard hats that have the integrated front and rear accessory slots. It functions as a spot light or flood light, and has a magnet to attach onto magnetic surfaces for use as a worklight. A charging cable is included with models that include rechargeable headlamps.
- 19. Release tab: A tab to detach the headlamp.
- 20. On/Off/Mode button: Button to control the headlamp's power and light modes.
- 21. Spot light: The headlamp's focused beam setting.
- 22. Flood lights: The headlamp's wide beam setting.
- 23. Magnet: A magnetic base for attaching the headlamp to metal surfaces.
- 24. Pivoting mount: The part of the headlamp that attaches to the hard hat accessory slot and allows tilting.
The 56062 can be attached to both the front and back of the hard hat via the Klein Tools accessory slot (6). It can be tilted up to 64 degrees on the hard hat and stand alone as a worklight.
To install the headlamp onto a Klein hard hat, align the pivoting mount (24) with the Klein Tools accessory slot (6) on the hard hat and push down until the headlamp clicks securely into place.
To remove the headlamp, press forward on the Release Tab (19), and lift the headlamp out of the accessory slot.
Reflective Stickers (FIG. C)
Klein Tools hard hats come with four reflective stickers. For optimal performance, affix only to the designated areas (15). Do NOT apply stickers in areas that will impede the functionality of accessories or of the hard hat itself.