Certain workplaces demand the wearing of special protective clothing. The precise form taken by this clothing will depend on the nature of the hazards you’re facing.
In many workplaces, like factories, warehouses, and construction sites, the right site work boots are of vital importance.
The Crucial Role of Safety Shoes
Why does foot protection matter? There are a few factors to think about.
First, we should consider that trips and falls account for a significant proportion of workplace accidents.
In some cases, they can cause significant harm. Footwear that provides adequate grip is therefore critical.
This is especially the case in outdoor workplaces, where rainwater, ice and snow are all problematic.
Second, there are hazards in the form of heavy, sharp and otherwise dangerous objects.
Good safety shoes will come with reinforcement around the top, so that feet are protected against falling objects and even small vehicles.
Steel bottoms will also protect sharp objects from penetrating the shoe from the bottom.
Types Of Safety Shoes
Composite toe safety shoes – Composite toe safety shoes and boots resemble steel toe cap boots, but utilize a composite material instead of steel.
This composite material is typically a blend of plastic, carbon fiber, and Kevlar aramid fiber.
Metatarsal safety shoes and boots bear a resemblance to steel toe cap boots and composite safety shoes, but they additionally feature a protective plate safeguarding the metatarsal region of the foot.
This area extends from the bottom of the shin to the toes. Various styles may position the protective plate above the tongue or discreetly inside. This design is available for both steel toe and composite safety boots.
ESD, or electrostatic discharge, stands for a type of shoe designed to shield the wearer from transmitting a static charge to objects they come into contact with.
These shoes provide a health and safety advantage, enabling users to handle flammable materials without the risk of static triggering ignition.
Particularly beneficial for electricians, these shoes prevent a static charge from impacting electrical products that the wearer may be handling.
What About Comfort?
Workplace shoes will be worn for eight hours a day or more. They should allow the worker to perform their tasks without restriction. They should ideally be so comfortable that they aren’t noticed.
When shoes don’t provide the required support and comfort, they might reduce productivity – or even persuade the worker in question to no wear them, in spite of the safety benefits.
Comfort can also directly affect the health of the person wearing the shoe.
Where the sole isn’t allowed to flex appropriately, for example, then the result might be plantar fasciitis (or ‘Policeman’s Heel’). This might drive up absenteeism, and drive down productivity.
Fit For Purpose
Like any other item of clothing, footwear will degrade over time. The pace of deterioration will depend on the environment, and the way that the shoes are being used.
But it’s fair to say that shoes, in general, will be expected to absorb more punishment than other items of clothing.
Getting the best from safety shoes means periodically inspecting and repairing them, and replacing them where appropriate.
New shoes present an ongoing cost, but one that tends to be offset by the benefits. This is something that an employer can often help with.
Slip Resistance
The tread pattern of your shoes matters a great deal. Much like the tread on your tyres, it will need to be of the right depth in order to distribute water away.
In an indoor environment, a shallow tread might be acceptable; in outdoor, muddy conditions, deeper tread is better.
When the tread wears away to the point that it can no longer distribute water away, it’s time to invest in a new set of boots.
Quality
Some employers may question the value of investing in high-quality safety shoes, viewing them as an unnecessary cost, but neglecting safety considerations can lead to more significant financial setbacks in the long term.
Foot injuries can incur substantial medical costs, workers’ compensation claims, and higher insurance premiums.
Supplying safety shoes can help prevent these financial burdens. When workers feel secure and comfortable, they exhibit heightened focus, productivity, and motivation to excel in their tasks.
Last but not least, adhering to safety standards and regulations is not only a requirement but also a duty.
Providing safety shoes ensures compliance with workplace safety guidelines, averting penalties and legal complexities.