DEWALT DPG22 Safety Helmet Review (2026): Type 2, Non-Vented Class E -- Honest Buyer's Guide

Is the DEWALT DPG22 Safety Helmet Worth Buying in 2026?

The DEWALT DPG22 safety helmet earns a 4.4 out of 5 rating. It is a certified ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type 2, Class E safety helmet with a 6-point ratchet suspension and an included chin strap, sold at a competitive mid-market price. For electricians, carpenters, and general contractors who already run DEWALT tools on the jobsite, the familiar yellow-and-black branding carries real practical weight: the helmet ships from the same brand trust they already have. It is a solid performer — not the absolute best suspension in its class, not the broadest accessory ecosystem — but a genuinely well-priced, certified option that gets the fundamentals right.

DEWALT's personal protective equipment line — marketed under the DPG prefix — is a category extension from its core power-tool business. That context matters when evaluating the DPG22. The helmet is engineered to meet the same ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 standard as helmets from dedicated PPE brands like MSA or Bullard, and it passes that bar. What it does not have is the multi-decade head-protection heritage of those competitors, nor the broad proprietary accessory ecosystem that the Milwaukee BOLT or the MSA V-Gard H1 have built around their platforms.

DEWALT offers two DPG22 variants. This review focuses on the DPG22 Non-Vented (Type II, Class E), which is rated to 20,000 volts for electrical work and is the primary choice for electricians and workers near energized conductors. The DPG22V Vented (Type II, Class C) is the ventilated sibling for non-electrical environments where airflow matters more than electrical protection. Both variants share the same shell geometry, suspension, and chin strap. A side-by-side comparison of the two appears in Section 9 below.

If you are deciding between Type 2 safety helmets and traditional cap-style hard hats or full brim hard hats, the Hard Hat Selection Guide (2026) covers those tradeoffs before you commit to a model. For a broader look at top performers in the category, see our Best Hard Hats for Construction (2026) guide.

WC Safety Editorial Verdict

DEWALT DPG22 — 4.4 / 5

The DEWALT DPG22 is the right choice for DEWALT-brand loyalists who want a certified Type 2 safety helmet at a competitive price without stepping outside their familiar tool ecosystem. It checks every mandatory box: ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type 2, Class E electrical rating (non-vented), 6-point ratchet suspension, and an included chin strap. The suspension is functional and adjustable but does not match the premium feel of MSA's FAS-TRAC III. The accessory ecosystem is modest compared to Milwaukee BOLT or MSA. For workers who use DEWALT tools and want a no-fuss, certified helmet from a brand they already trust, the DPG22 delivers solid value. It loses a fraction of a point for being a category-extension brand in a field where dedicated PPE manufacturers have decades of head-protection engineering depth.

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Who the DEWALT DPG22 Is For

• Electricians who need Class E electrical protection: The non-vented DPG22 is rated to 20,000 volts, meeting ANSI Class E requirements. Workers near energized conductors need a non-vented helmet with a valid electrical class rating. The DPG22 delivers this at a reasonable price point.
• DEWALT tool users who want brand consistency: On a jobsite where crew members already carry DEWALT drills, saws, and batteries, wearing a DEWALT helmet signals familiarity. This is not a trivial consideration — brand trust translates to consistent PPE compliance when workers feel comfortable with what they are wearing.
• General contractors and carpenters needing Type 2 coverage: The Type 2 shell provides lateral impact protection that cap-style Type 1 helmets do not. Workers on sites with lateral impact exposure — roofing edges, scaffold work, work near falling objects from the side — benefit from Type 2 geometry.
• Workers seeking a mid-budget Type 2 helmet: The DPG22 sits below premium helmets like the STUDSON SHK-1 in price while meeting the same ANSI Type 2 standard. If the budget does not stretch to a premium option but Type 2 is required, the DPG22 is a defensible choice.
• Safety managers standardizing a DEWALT-brand site: For procurement officers who standardize on a single tool brand across a crew, DPG22 helmets integrate cleanly into a DEWALT PPE procurement line without introducing an unfamiliar brand SKU.
• Workers on vented options: Carpenters, framers, and general construction workers not exposed to electrical hazards should consider the DPG22V vented variant for improved airflow in warm conditions.

The DPG22 is not the best fit for workers who demand the most comfortable all-day suspension system (the MSA V-Gard H1 with FAS-TRAC III wins that comparison), for workers who want a large proprietary accessory clip-in ecosystem, or for workers in extreme cold environments where HDPE shell material has an advantage over polypropylene. In those cases, compare the MSA V-Gard H1 or the Milwaukee BOLT before committing. Our MSA V-Gard H1 review and Milwaukee BOLT review cover those alternatives in full detail.

What the DEWALT DPG22 Does Well

ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type 2 Certification

The DPG22 meets ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type 2, which requires the helmet to protect against lateral (off-center) impacts in addition to the top-impact protection required by Type 1. For workers on construction sites, roof edges, or scaffold environments where objects can strike from the side, Type 2 coverage is the correct specification. The non-vented DPG22 also carries a Class E rating, meaning the shell and suspension have been dielectrically tested to 20,000 volts — a mandatory requirement for electricians and workers on energized electrical infrastructure. Both certifications are verified by independent testing, not self-certification.

6-Point Ratchet Suspension

The DPG22 ships with a 6-point ratchet suspension that adjusts via a wheel dial at the rear of the headband. The 6-point contact spreads load across the crown more evenly than a 4-point suspension, reducing pressure points on extended wear. The ratchet mechanism provides tactile click-by-click confirmation of fit tightening — a feature workers who prefer manual fit verification over auto-fit systems will appreciate. Adjustment is tool-free. The vertical height of the suspension (the clearance between shell and skull) also adjusts to accommodate different head profiles.

Chin Strap Included

The chin strap is included in the box rather than sold as a separate accessory. For ANSI Z89.1 Type 2 applications, a chin strap is frequently required by site safety plans, and including it at no additional cost removes a procurement step. The strap is a standard two-point design with a buckle closure. Workers in high-wind environments, on aerial lifts, or in positions where the helmet could be dislodged should confirm the chin strap is in place before each shift as part of daily PPE inspection.

DEWALT Brand Recognition and Tool Ecosystem Fit

For a large segment of the construction workforce, DEWALT is a first-choice power tool brand. The DPG22's yellow-and-black color scheme mirrors DEWALT's tool livery, which creates immediate brand recognition on the jobsite. This is not a superficial benefit: worker PPE compliance rates are meaningfully affected by whether workers feel comfortable and familiar with the equipment they are required to wear. On a crew that runs DEWALT tools, the DPG22 is a natural fit without requiring workers to adopt an unfamiliar brand identity. The brand also makes procurement conversations straightforward — purchasing managers who already have DEWALT accounts can add PPE to existing vendor relationships.

Competitive Price Point

The DPG22 is priced below premium Type 2 safety helmets from STUDSON, KASK, or Petzl while meeting the same ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 standard. Workers and safety managers who need certified Type 2 protection but cannot justify the cost of a premium-tier helmet will find the DPG22 a defensible budget allocation. The price delta versus the MSA V-Gard H1 is narrower, making the DPG22-vs-H1 comparison more about suspension preference and accessory ecosystem than pure cost. See the safety helmets collection for current pricing on all Type 2 helmets in our catalog.

Where the DEWALT DPG22 Falls Short

Suspension comfort is functional, not exceptional. The 6-point ratchet suspension does its job. It is not uncomfortable. But workers who have used the MSA V-Gard H1's FAS-TRAC III suspension — with its cervical pad, multi-axis adjustment, and engineered load distribution — will notice the difference on an eight-hour shift. The DPG22's suspension is typical of mid-tier helmets rather than a standout feature. For workers prioritizing all-day comfort, the MSA V-Gard H1 is the stronger option at a comparable price. Our MSA V-Gard H1 review covers the FAS-TRAC III suspension in detail.

Accessory ecosystem is limited. Both the Milwaukee BOLT and the MSA V-Gard H1 have developed proprietary accessory mounting systems that allow clip-in face shields and ear muffs to attach without tools. DEWALT's DPG22 accessory lineup is narrower. Workers who know they will need face shield or hearing protection integration alongside their helmet should evaluate this before purchasing. In multi-hazard environments, an integrated mounting system reduces fumbling with accessories and improves overall PPE compliance.

DEWALT is not a dedicated PPE company. This is a context point, not a defect. DEWALT's primary engineering and quality focus is on power tools. The DPG22 meets the required standard, but the brand does not have the decades of head-protection-specific R&D that MSA, Bullard, or Honeywell have invested in. For workers or safety managers who place weight on dedicated PPE brand heritage, this is a legitimate consideration. DEWALT's PPE line is relatively young, and the product range is narrower than those of established safety equipment specialists.

No UV degradation indicator. The 3M SecureFit X5000 includes a built-in UVicator that changes color when the shell has received enough UV exposure to prompt replacement. The DPG22 has no equivalent. Workers must track shell age and exposure manually. ANSI Z89.1 and most manufacturers recommend replacing the shell after five years from the manufacturing date or sooner if the shell shows signs of UV degradation (chalking, fading, cracking). For outdoor workers in high-UV environments, this requires discipline on replacement scheduling.

No MIPS or rotational impact protection. Premium helmets from STUDSON and KASK have begun incorporating MIPS or similar rotational energy management systems. The DPG22 does not include MIPS. For standard ANSI Z89.1 compliance this is not a deficiency — MIPS is a performance upgrade beyond the standard, not a requirement — but buyers comparing to premium-tier helmets should note the difference.

DEWALT DPG22 vs Competing Mid-Range Type 2 Safety Helmets

The table below compares the DEWALT DPG22 Non-Vented against four competing Type 2 safety helmets across the factors that matter most on the buying decision. All five helmets meet ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type 2. Differences lie in suspension quality, accessory ecosystem, electrical class, and price tier.

For full side-by-side analysis, see our reviews of the MSA V-Gard H1, the Milwaukee BOLT, the 3M SecureFit X5000, and the STUDSON SHK-1.

DEWALT DPG22 Non-Vented vs DPG22V Vented: Which Should You Buy?

DEWALT's two DPG22-family helmets share a shell design but differ on ventilation and electrical class — which determines which workers should use each variant. The table below is the decision reference.

Which Type 2 Helmet Should You Buy? Decision Rules

• Buy the DEWALT DPG22 Non-Vented if you work with DEWALT tools, need Class E electrical protection, and want a certified Type 2 helmet at a competitive price without paying premium-brand prices. Order the DPG22 Non-Vented at WC Safety.
• Buy the DEWALT DPG22V Vented if you use DEWALT tools but work in hot environments without electrical hazards and want better airflow. Order the DPG22V Vented at WC Safety.
• Buy the MSA V-Gard H1 if all-day suspension comfort is the top priority and you want the best mid-market suspension system (FAS-TRAC III) in the Type 2 category. Order the MSA V-Gard H1 at WC Safety.
• Buy the Milwaukee BOLT if you run Milwaukee tools and want the broadest proprietary accessory ecosystem — especially for face shield and hearing protection clip-in compatibility. Order the Milwaukee BOLT at WC Safety.
• Buy the 3M SecureFit X5000 if you want a hands-free auto-fit suspension and a built-in UV degradation indicator for outdoor workers managing replacement schedules. Order the 3M SecureFit X5000 at WC Safety.
• Buy the STUDSON SHK-1 if budget allows and you want MIPS rotational impact protection plus premium suspension in a Type 2 Class E shell. Order the STUDSON SHK-1 at WC Safety.

Compatible Accessories for the DEWALT DPG22

The DPG22's accessory compatibility is more limited than that of the Milwaukee BOLT or MSA V-Gard H1 platform, but standard ANSI-compliant accessories from other manufacturers will generally integrate with the helmet's standard slots. Below are the relevant accessory categories to consider when configuring a complete head protection solution around the DPG22.

• Face shields: Standard brow-guard-style face shields with universal slot attachments are compatible. Verify slot width before purchasing a face shield from a different brand to confirm fitment. DEWALT's own DPG face shield accessories are designed to work with the DPG22 shell.
• Ear muffs: Helmet-mounted ear muffs that use standard hard hat slot attachment are compatible with the DPG22. Universal-slot earmuffs from 3M and MSA are broadly compatible. Check that the slot spacing matches DEWALT's helmet rails before ordering.
• Chin strap replacement: The included chin strap is a standard two-point design. Replacement straps are available through DEWALT's PPE line and through universal PPE accessory suppliers.
• Suspension replacement: DEWALT offers replacement suspension systems for the DPG22. Replacing the suspension at intervals is part of normal helmet maintenance — suspension webbing degrades with sweat and UV exposure before the shell necessarily requires replacement.
• Vented vs non-vented shell options: If conditions change — for example, if a worker who previously worked on non-electrical sites is reassigned to an electrical environment — the correct approach is to transition from the DPG22V vented (Class C) to the DPG22 non-vented (Class E). These are separate products, not interchangeable shells.

Type 2 Safety Helmet Category Context

The Type 2 safety helmet category has expanded significantly since approximately 2018. Prior to that period, most construction sites used Type 1 cap-style hard hats or traditional full brim hard hats. Type 2 helmets — with their rounder skull coverage and lateral impact protection — were more common in European markets, where EN 397 helmets with lateral protection had broader adoption. The entry of Milwaukee Tool (with the BOLT), MSA (V-Gard H1), STUDSON, KASK, and Petzl into the North American construction helmet market drove rapid adoption of Type 2 geometry.

DEWALT's DPG22 entered this market as the tool brand sought to build out a complete PPE line alongside its hand tools and power tools. The helmet is not a new-technology design — it does not introduce MIPS, auto-fit suspension, or UV sensing — but it provides a certified Type 2 option at a price point accessible to workers who want the DEWALT brand name without paying premium-tier prices.

The broader safety helmets and hard hats categories at WC Safety cover the full spectrum from traditional cap-style through premium Type 2. For workers transitioning from cap-style helmets, the Hard Hat Selection Guide explains when the upgrade to Type 2 is justified and what to expect from the transition. See also the vented hard hats collection if airflow is the primary driver of your buying decision.

DEWALT DPG22: Total Cost of Ownership

Safety helmet total cost of ownership (TCO) covers more than the purchase price. For a complete picture, factor in the following across the service life of the helmet.

• Initial purchase price: The DPG22 is priced in the mid-market tier. At the time of this review, it is competitively priced against the MSA V-Gard H1 and meaningfully less expensive than premium helmets from STUDSON or KASK. The chin strap is included, which removes a common accessory add-on cost.
• Suspension replacement: ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 guidance and most manufacturers recommend replacing the suspension system every 12 months under daily use, or sooner if webbing shows fraying, stiffening, or discoloration. DEWALT DPG22 replacement suspensions are available through DEWALT's PPE channel. Budget approximately one suspension replacement per helmet per year for active daily users.
• Shell replacement: ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 recommends replacing the shell at a maximum of five years from the manufacturing date stamped inside the helmet, or earlier if the shell shows UV chalking, cracking, dents, or any deformation from impact. Workers in high UV environments (outdoor construction in direct sun) should inspect the shell more frequently. Since the DPG22 has no UV indicator, replacement scheduling requires manual discipline. Mark the in-service date on the inside of the shell at time of issue.
• After any impact: Any safety helmet that has absorbed a significant impact — from a falling object, a drop from height, or a collision — must be removed from service immediately, regardless of visible damage. Impact absorption deforms the internal structure in ways not visible to the naked eye. This applies to the DPG22 as it does to every other certified helmet.
• Inspection frequency: Daily visual inspection before use is the standard. Check for cracks, dents, and UV chalking on the shell; check that the suspension webbing is intact and the ratchet mechanism operates smoothly. A five-minute inspection at the start of each shift is the minimum.

Over a five-year service window (with annual suspension replacements), the DPG22's TCO is comparable to similarly priced mid-market helmets. The premium you pay for a STUDSON SHK-1 or KASK buys better suspension comfort and features like MIPS — whether those features justify the price depends on the specific work environment and individual priorities.

Final Verdict: DEWALT DPG22 Safety Helmet — 4.4 / 5

The DEWALT DPG22 is a well-priced, certified Type 2 safety helmet that does everything it is required to do without introducing advanced features that push the price into premium territory. Its ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type 2 Class E certification is legitimate and independently tested. The 6-point ratchet suspension is functional and adjustable. The chin strap is included. The brand recognition factor is real on DEWALT-tool jobsites.

The DPG22 is not the best safety helmet in its price class in any single technical dimension. MSA's FAS-TRAC III suspension on the V-Gard H1 delivers more comfort. The Milwaukee BOLT has a better accessory ecosystem. The 3M SecureFit X5000 has a UV indicator and auto-fit suspension. The STUDSON SHK-1 adds MIPS. But the DPG22 does not need to win every dimension — it needs to meet the standard, fit the jobsite context, and arrive at a price that makes sense for the buyer. For DEWALT-brand users in that position, the DPG22 delivers a 4.4 out of 5 result.

Workers who prioritize suspension comfort above all else should budget up to the MSA V-Gard H1. Workers who want the fullest accessory platform should look at the Milwaukee BOLT. Workers who want MIPS should look at the STUDSON SHK-1. For everyone else who runs DEWALT tools and wants a certified Type 2 helmet at a fair price, the DPG22 earns a recommendation.

Frequently Asked Questions — DEWALT DPG22 Safety Helmet

What is the difference between the DEWALT DPG22 and the DPG22V?

The DPG22 is the non-vented version, rated ANSI Type 2 Class E (20,000V electrical protection). The DPG22V is the vented version, rated ANSI Type 2 Class C, which provides no electrical protection. Both share the same shell geometry and 6-point ratchet suspension. Choose DPG22 for electrical work; choose DPG22V for non-electrical environments where airflow is a priority. See the side-by-side comparison table in Section 9 of this review for a full feature breakdown.

Is the DEWALT DPG22 ANSI-certified?

Yes. The DEWALT DPG22 Non-Vented is certified to ANSI/ISEA Z89.1, Type II, Class E. The DPG22V Vented is certified to ANSI/ISEA Z89.1, Type II, Class C. Certification is independently tested and must be marked on the inside of the shell. Verify the ANSI markings on your specific helmet at time of purchase and again during inspections.

What does Type 2 mean on a safety helmet?

ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type 2 means the helmet is tested for both top impact protection and off-center (lateral) impact protection. Type 1 helmets protect against top impacts only. Type 2 helmets are designed for work environments where objects can strike from the side, at an angle, or from edges — common in roofing, scaffold work, and general construction. The rounded, full-coverage shell geometry of Type 2 helmets is what distinguishes them visually from cap-style Type 1 hard hats.

What is the difference between Class E and Class C on a safety helmet?

ANSI electrical class ratings indicate protection against electrical hazard. Class E (Electrical) means the shell has been dielectrically tested to 20,000 volts — required for work near energized electrical conductors. Class G (General) is tested to 2,200 volts. Class C (Conductive) provides no electrical protection. The DEWALT DPG22 Non-Vented is Class E. The DPG22V Vented is Class C. Ventilation slots in the shell make Class E electrical certification impossible, which is why the vented version carries Class C.

Can electricians use the DEWALT DPG22?

Yes. The DPG22 Non-Vented is rated ANSI Class E, meaning it meets the electrical protection requirement for work near energized conductors up to 20,000 volts. Electricians must use the non-vented DPG22, not the DPG22V, for electrical applications. The DPG22V's Class C rating means it is not suitable for work near electrical hazards.

How does the DEWALT DPG22 compare to the MSA V-Gard H1?

Both are mid-market Type 2 Class E helmets at comparable price points. The primary differences: the MSA V-Gard H1 includes the FAS-TRAC III suspension system, which is widely considered the most comfortable mass-market hard hat suspension due to its cervical pad and multi-axis adjustment — the DPG22's 6-point ratchet is functional but not at that level. MSA also has a much broader proprietary accessory ecosystem built around its helmet platform. The DPG22 advantage is DEWALT brand recognition on DEWALT-tool jobsites. Workers prioritizing suspension comfort should read the MSA V-Gard H1 review before deciding.

How does the DEWALT DPG22 compare to the Milwaukee BOLT?

Both are Type 2 safety helmets from tool brands expanding into PPE. The Milwaukee BOLT has a more developed accessory ecosystem — particularly for face shield and hearing protection clip-in integration. The BOLT platform also has more color options and accessory SKUs. The DPG22 competes primarily on DEWALT brand recognition and price. Workers on Milwaukee-tool jobsites should consider the BOLT; workers on DEWALT-tool jobsites will find the DPG22 a more natural fit. See the Milwaukee BOLT review for a full comparison.

Does the DEWALT DPG22 come with a chin strap?

Yes. A chin strap is included with the DPG22 at no additional cost. This is standard for Type 2 helmets, since chin straps are frequently required by site safety plans and are recommended for any application where the helmet could be dislodged — aerial lift work, roofing, high-wind environments. The included strap is a two-point design with a buckle closure.

Is DEWALT a reliable brand for safety helmets?

The DPG22 meets ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 independently tested certification, which is the relevant measure of reliability for PPE. The honest context is that DEWALT is a power-tool company that has extended its brand into PPE — it is not a dedicated head-protection company with decades of PPE-specific engineering like MSA or Bullard. The DPG22 meets the required standard and is a legitimate product. Workers who place high weight on dedicated PPE brand heritage may prefer MSA, Bullard, or Honeywell. Workers who trust the DEWALT brand from their tool experience will find the DPG22 a natural extension of that trust.

What is the service life of the DEWALT DPG22?

ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 and DEWALT's own guidance recommend replacing the shell at a maximum of five years from the manufacturing date stamped inside the helmet. Suspension should be replaced annually for daily-use workers, or sooner if webbing shows degradation. Any helmet that has absorbed a significant impact must be removed from service immediately regardless of visible damage. The manufacturing date is marked on the inside of the shell; mark the in-service date at time of issue to track both.

Does the DEWALT DPG22 have a UV degradation indicator?

No. Unlike the 3M SecureFit X5000, which includes a built-in UVicator sensor that changes color with UV exposure, the DPG22 has no UV indicator. Workers in high UV outdoor environments must track shell age and inspect manually for UV degradation signs: chalking, fading, surface cracking, or brittleness. Mark the in-service date inside the shell and schedule inspections accordingly.

Does the DEWALT DPG22 have MIPS?

No. The DPG22 does not include MIPS or any rotational impact protection system. MIPS is available on premium helmets like the STUDSON SHK-1. For standard construction applications covered by ANSI/ISEA Z89.1, MIPS is a performance upgrade beyond the required standard, not a mandatory feature. Workers who require MIPS should evaluate the STUDSON SHK-1.

What accessories work with the DEWALT DPG22?

DEWALT's own DPG-branded face shield and ear muff accessories are designed for compatibility. Standard-slot face shields and helmet-mount earmuffs from other manufacturers will also fit if the slot spacing matches. The DPG22's accessory ecosystem is more limited than the Milwaukee BOLT or MSA V-Gard H1 platforms. If face shield or hearing protection integration is a priority, verify accessory compatibility before purchasing. See the face shields and ear muffs collections for compatible options.

Can I use the DEWALT DPG22 on an OSHA-regulated jobsite?

Yes, provided the specific OSHA requirement (29 CFR 1926.100 for construction) calls for Type 2 Class E protection and the DPG22 meets that specification. OSHA's head protection standard references ANSI/ISEA Z89.1; the DPG22 is certified to that standard. Confirm the specific class and type requirements of your site or project before purchasing — some sites specify Type 1 cap-style only, others require Type 2. Always verify with your site safety officer or OSHA compliance documentation.

Where can I buy the DEWALT DPG22?

The DEWALT DPG22 Non-Vented and the DPG22V Vented are both stocked at WC Safety. Both are also available on Amazon. Check the safety helmets collection for current availability and pricing on both variants alongside competing Type 2 helmets.

How does the DEWALT DPG22 fit? What head sizes does it accommodate?

The 6-point ratchet suspension adjusts via a wheel dial at the rear of the headband. The adjustment range accommodates most adult head sizes. Workers with larger or smaller heads should verify the stated headband size range on the product page before purchasing. The suspension also offers vertical height adjustment to account for different head profiles. A properly fitted helmet should feel snug without pressure points and should not shift significantly during head movement.