Milwaukee Tool announced that its BOLT™ Safety Helmet w/ IMPACT ARMOR™ Liner and BOLT™ Safety Helmet were rated first and second in effectiveness for reducing concussions and skull fractures according to a two-year research study by Virginia Tech.

The study was funded and in collaboration with the John R Gentille Foundation, the ELECTRI International, the American Society of Concrete Contractors, and The Association of Union Constructors, which evaluated 17 construction helmets using the STAR (Summation of Tests for the Analysis of Risk) testing system. The STAR system gauges the helmets’ ability to reduce “linear and rotational head acceleration” during a variety of fall situations that are severe but survivable.

According to the 2025 Virginia Tech Construction Helmet Ratings report, the “data highlight the superior impact protection of Type 2 helmets compared to traditional Type 1 hard hats”.

“The findings speak volumes,” said Milwaukee Strategic Account Manager, Brent Garner.

“Only seven helmets earned a 5-STAR rating. This study reinforces our unwavering focus on setting new standards in head protection. By investing in deep user insights, we have developed personal protective equipment (PPE) from the ground up, creating head protection that meets real user demands. With a strong emphasis on innovation, we continue to provide solutions that keep safety at the forefront of every job.”

United Tool and Fastener is proud to offer customers the Milwaukee BOLT™ Safety Helmet and accessories in addition to a plethora of other Milwaukee products. 

For more information or to buy the Milwaukee BOLT™ Safety Helmet and accessories or any other Milwaukee tool, please call or stop by one of our showrooms: in Houston at 713-692-2323; in San Antonio at 210-495-8665; or in College Station at 979-731-8665.