ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2026 Introduces New “+” Designations for Enhanced Head Protection

A new edition of the U.S. industrial head protection standard introduces additional testing criteria designed to give safety professionals more information when selecting protective helmets.

The ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2026 standard was released in September by the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) and approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The revision retains the existing Type I and Type II classifications but adds optional testing criteria for enhanced protection features. PR Newswire

What Has Changed?

One of the most visible changes is the introduction of the “+” designation.

Under the revised system:

• Type I+ identifies head protection incorporating enhanced retention, chin-strap performance and multi-directional impact protection.
• Type II+ identifies helmets providing Type II impact protection together with enhanced retention and chin-strap performance.

The standard also introduces additional testing related to helmet retention and chin-strap retention. Type I+ includes additional multi-point impact testing covering front, rear and side impacts. PR Newswire

Reverse Wearing and Visibility Markings

The revised standard also adds guidance and testing considerations for certain helmets worn in reverse.

Another terminology change concerns visibility markings. The previous HV (High Visibility) marking is updated to EV (Enhanced Visibility) in the context of head protection, reflecting that head protection is outside the ANSI/ISEA 107 high-visibility apparel standard. ISEA states that there is no change to the underlying visibility performance. PR Newswire

Existing Compliant Helmets Are Not Automatically Obsolete

An important point for employers is that the 2026 revision does not make previously compliant head protection automatically obsolete.

The new criteria are optional enhancements rather than a complete replacement of the existing Type and Class system. ISEA also emphasizes that helmet selection should continue to be based on the hazards present at a particular workplace. PR Newswire

Why It Matters

The change could make it easier for safety professionals to distinguish between helmets that meet the base requirements and products that have undergone additional testing for retention and impact-related performance.

It also provides manufacturers with standardized terminology for features that are already appearing in the industrial head-protection market.

For PPE buyers, the practical question is therefore not simply whether a helmet is Type I or Type II, but which additional performance characteristics have actually been tested and marked on the product.