What do steel helmets primarily protect workers from?

Steel helmets primarily protect workers from fall hazards. They are designed to provide a barrier against falling objects and impacts that can occur in construction and industrial environments. The hard outer shell of a steel helmet absorbs and disperses the energy from a falling object, thereby reducing the risk of serious head injuries such as concussions or skull fractures.

While workers may also benefit from other personal protective equipment (PPE) to guard against electrical shocks, chemical spills, or noise exposure, these are not the primary purpose of steel helmets. For instance, electrical safety typically involves insulated gear, and chemical safety might require gloves and goggles, while noise exposure is usually mitigated through ear protection. Therefore, the critical function of steel helmets is specifically related to fall hazards, making this the correct answer.