The Shift Toward Type 2 Head Protection with @Bobsdecline

Aaron Leblanc (@Bobsdecline) sat down with Kyle Anderson, Product Manager at Milwaukee Tool, during PIPELINE™ 2025 in August to discuss the shift toward Type 2 head protection in professional trades. This episode explores why more industries, including power utility linemen, are moving from Type 1 hard hats to Type 2 safety helmets and what that means for jobsite safety and performance. Kyle and Aaron dive into Milwaukee’s BOLT™ Full Brim Vented Safety Helmet, highlighting how user research informed features like the fire resistant (FR) chin strap, improved airflow, and overall comfort. They discuss common challenges in head protection — from weight and fit to arc flash safety — and how thoughtful design and testing help address these real-world needs. Aaron also takes listeners behind the scenes of his tour of Milwaukee’s Mukwonago plant, where he learned about the helmet manufacturing process, customization capabilities, and the product development journey that prioritizes user feedback. The conversation also covers the BOLT™ accessory system, giving users flexibility to tailor their helmets to their specific work requirements. This episode offers insights for power utility linemen and other trades professionals on evolving safety standards, practical innovations, and the industry-wide shift toward Type 2 head protection. Watch Aaron’s tour of the Milwaukee Tool’s Mukwonago facility here: http://ms.spr.ly/6054QBI1q Product Links: BOLT™ Full Brim Vented Safety Helmet: http://ms.spr.ly/6055QBI1S Follow Bobsdecline on YouTube: http://ms.spr.ly/6056QBI1s Follow Milwaukee Tool on Social: Facebook: http://ms.spr.ly/6059mpQbt Instagram: http://ms.spr.ly/6050mpQbQ TikTok: http://ms.spr.ly/6051mpQbv Twitter: http://ms.spr.ly/6052mpQba