Culpeper-2020-December

PAGE 4 DECEMBER 2020
KASK (continued)
a fall, leaving the wearer’s head unprotected
when it strikes the ground or other hard surface.
VDOT conducted a study of the current,
traditional hard hat alongside several models
of the newer helmets. The KASK helmet was
selected as a replacement due to the greater
protection offered by the integrated chin strap,
more substantial suspension system, and the
ability to add accessories such as a visor, face
shield and ear protection for specific tasks. It
also offers a 10-year service life, compared with
the current hard hats that call for replacement
of the suspension system each year.
The KASK helmets are significantly more
expensive, approximately $250 with the
accessories, compared with the current hard
hats that cost about $90. When the helmets
are distributed, each employee will be asked
to sign an acknowledgement of receipt and
responsibility for care of the helmet. In case of
loss or damage due to negligence, the employee
may be asked to reimburse the agency for the
pro-rated cost of the helmet, based on the
remaining service life. Employees whose helmets
are damaged in the course of daily work will not
be responsible for reimbursement.
Culpeper DE John Lynch said of the helmets,
“This is an example of VDOT keeping pace with
evolving technology, which is true in the realm
of safety as well as in other areas. These new
helmets will greatly enhance the protection
of our workers, and is another example of
how VDOT values the safety and health of our
employees.”
Employees will receive the new helmets
from their supervisors, and will be expected
to begin wearing the helmet on Jan. 4 or the
first day they return to work after the New
Year. For more information about the new
helmets, a video featuring Commissioner Brich
can be viewed on YouTube: www.youtube.com/
watch?v=T7HZtEVdsKk&feature=youtu.be
New Mobile Materials Lab Delivered
Check out the district’s new mobile asphalt testing lab! Haroon Shami, Matthew Moore, and Jimmy
Aylor of Materials worked with Materials Division and Rosalie Alther in Procurement to develop the
custom specifications. Check back in a later issue of The Pipeline to see the lab in action.