MSA V-Gard H2 Full Brim Safety Helmet β Type II Class E, Integrated Chinstrap (10250593)
EDITORIAL REVIEW: 4.7/5 WC Safety Review β the MSA V-Gard H2 Full Brim Safety Helmet Editorial assessment by Steven Eaton, WC Safety editor, based on MSA published specifications and the ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 helmet cla...
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Editorial assessment by Steven Eaton, WC Safety editor, based on MSA published specifications and the ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 helmet classes. We did not laboratory-test this product.
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MSA V-Gard H2 Full Brim Safety Helmet Overview
The MSA V-Gard H2 Full Brim Safety Helmet (10250593) is a non-vented full-brim helmet rated ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type II for top and lateral impact and Class E for electrical work, with its shell proof-tested to 20,000 volts and an integrated 4-point chinstrap.
As the MSA V-Gard H2, this MSA 10250593 is a Type II Class E full brim helmet and a safety helmet with integrated chinstrap β a genuine non-vented full brim safety helmet for utility and electrical crews.
Its integrated 4-point chinstrap is EN 12492 compliant and field-replaceable, the sweatband and pads carry Ionic+ antimicrobial silver, and it accepts nearly all V-Gard full-brim accessories. This SKU does not include Mips; MSA offers a separate H2 Full Brim with MIPS if you want the rotational system. Learn the ratings in hard hat classes explained.
Who It Is For
| Use case | Fit | Buyer guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Electricians & utility crews | Purpose-built | Class E, 20kV proof-test. |
| Falls & lateral impact | Purpose-built | Type II plus a 4-point chinstrap. |
| Sun & rain exposure | Strong | Full brim gives 360Β° coverage. |
| Existing MSA accessory fleet | Strong | Takes most V-Gard full-brim gear. |
| Rotational-impact system | Choose MIPS | Pick the separate H2 MIPS SKU. |
A safety helmet protects your head, but it does not keep you from falling. Whenever you work at height above the trigger in OSHA 1926.501, head protection has to be paired with a personal fall arrest system β an anchor, a full-body harness, and a connecting device β not used in its place, even though the chinstrap helps the helmet stay on during a slip. On the electrical side, Class E means the shell is proof-tested to 20,000 volts, but that is a supplementary test, not authorization to work energized: crews still de-energize, verify absence of voltage, and follow NFPA 70E and their electrical safety program. The rating also depends on keeping the shell intact, so do not drill it, paint it, or cover it with unapproved stickers, and use only MSA-approved accessories on the mounts. See Type I vs Type II and Class E vs Class G to match the helmet to your hazard.
Pros & Cons
- Type II: top and lateral impact
- Class E: 20kV electrical proof-test
- Integrated, field-replaceable 4-point chinstrap
- Ionic+ antimicrobial pads
- Takes most V-Gard full-brim accessories
- Non-vented: warmer than a vented shell
- This SKU has no Mips (separate version)
- Class E is a proof-test, not live-work clearance
- No integrated visor or ear muffs
How It Compares
The H2 full brim sits among MSA's safety-helmet line. Weigh it against nearby options:
| Option | Type / Class | Notable | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| V-Gard H2 chinstrap (this page) | Type II / Class E | Integrated 4-point strap | Electrical, secure retention |
| V-Gard H2 Full Brim MIPS | Type II / Class E | Adds Mips system | Rotational-impact system |
| V-Gard H1 | Type II | Lower-profile design | Lightweight climbing style |
Choose the MSA V-Gard H2 Full Brim Safety Helmet with its integrated chinstrap, the H2 Full Brim MIPS for the rotational system, or the V-Gard H1 for a lower profile. Compare more in best safety helmet.
Specifications
| Brand / Model | MSA V-Gard H2 Full Brim, 10250593 |
| Rating | ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type II, Class E (20,000V); non-vented |
| Retention | Integrated 4-point chinstrap, EN 12492, field-replaceable |
| Suspension | Ratchet suspension; full-brim shell |
| Hygiene | Ionic+ antimicrobial sweatband, crown pad, ratchet pad |
| Notes | Accepts most V-Gard full-brim accessories; no Mips on this SKU |
Related Guides
Hard hat classes explained, Type I vs Type II, Class E vs Class G, best safety helmet, helmets vs bump caps.
Related Resources
Safety helmets head protection MSA V-Gard H2 (base) MSA V-Gard H2 Pro MIPS MSA V-Gard traditional full brim
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the integrated 4-point chinstrap different from a basic chin strap?
A 4-point strap attaches at four points around the shell and adjusts in several places, so it holds the helmet more securely and centered during a slip or lateral impact than a simple 2-point strap. On this SKU it is integrated into the helmet rather than added as an afterthought accessory.
What is the Ionic+ antimicrobial treatment?
MSA treats the sweatband, crown pad, and ratchet pad with Ionic+ high-purity silver, which is designed to suppress odor-causing bacteria on those contact surfaces. It targets odor on the pads; it is not a substitute for cleaning or for replacing worn components.
Does non-vented mean it runs hot?
A non-vented shell traps more heat than a vented one, which is the trade-off for the Class E electrical rating, since a Class E shell cannot have vent holes. The antimicrobial, moisture-managing pads help, but in hot non-electrical work a vented Class C helmet runs cooler.
Can I replace the chinstrap if it wears out?
Yes. The integrated 4-point chinstrap is field-replaceable, so you can swap it if it frays or the buckles wear without retiring the whole helmet. Use the correct MSA replacement part so the EN 12492 chinstrap performance is maintained.
Will my existing V-Gard accessories fit the H2?
The H2 full brim is designed to accept nearly all V-Gard full-brim accessories, which makes it easy to integrate with an existing MSA inventory of face shields, ear muffs, and mounts. Confirm each specific accessory's compatibility with MSA before standardizing.
What are the benefits of a full brim over cap style?
A full brim runs 360 degrees around the helmet, adding shade and shedding rain and debris away from the neck and face, which many outdoor and utility crews prefer. The brim does not change the impact rating; this helmet is Type II either way.
Does Class E mean I can work on energized equipment?
No. Class E means the shell is proof-tested to 20,000 volts as a supplementary safeguard, not authorization to work energized. You still de-energize, verify absence of voltage, and follow NFPA 70E and your electrical safety program before working on or near conductors.
What head sizes does the H2 fit?
The V-Gard H2 uses a ratchet suspension that adjusts across a wide head-size range typical of MSA full-brim helmets. Turn the rear ratchet for a snug, level fit, then set the chinstrap so the helmet stays put during movement and at height.
Can I put stickers on or drill a Class E shell?
Avoid drilling, painting, or covering a Class E shell with unapproved stickers or solvents, since they can compromise the electrical rating and the shell. Use only MSA-approved accessories and the designed mounting points to keep the Class E rating valid.
How do I adjust the fit?
Set the ratchet knob at the back for overall circumference, adjust the crown height if your model allows, and tune the 4-point chinstrap so it is snug but comfortable under the chin. A correct fit keeps the helmet level and stable during a slip or fall.
Which ANSI standard does this meet?
It is rated to ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type II, Class E, and the chinstrap references EN 12492. Standards are periodically revised, so confirm the exact edition marked inside the shell matches your site or contract requirements before you put it into service.
How do I clean the helmet and its pads?
Wipe the shell with mild soap and water, avoid solvents that can weaken the shell, and clean or replace the sweatband and pads as they wear. The antimicrobial treatment reduces odor but does not remove the need to keep the contact surfaces clean.
Written by Steven Eaton, WC Safety Editorial. Specifications sourced from MSA published data and the ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 helmet classes. Compare the range in safety helmets.
WC Safety is an independent PPE review site; no paid placement. Confirm the Type, Class, and standard markings on the shell label against your site requirements before use, and retire any helmet that has taken an impact.
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