Safety Boots
Steel toe boots and more
Healthy feet are vital to our mobility and productiveness as human beings, providing skeletal support and making it possible to maintain active daily lives. Yet, approximately 200,000 Americans are the victims of occupational foot injuries each year, while hundreds of similar incidents go unreported. Foot injuries occur frequently and unexpectedly in environments where there is regular exposure to chemicals, heavy or sharp objects, electrical equipment and slippery floors.
To reduce safety risks, you should always wear protective work boots in industrial environments, as well as hard hats and eye protection, if required. There are various types of protective footwear available, depending on the specific hazards presented by the work environment. Steel-toed boots and slip-resistant shoes are two examples.
An estimated 33 percent of work-related foot injuries involve the toes. Most such incidents occur when falling objects strike or pierce the foot, and titanium-, aluminum- or steel toed boots can reduce or prevent physical trauma. Other safety toe boots might use a fiberglass toe or insulated steel toe along with rubber soles and heels for workers using electrical equipment. The primary materials and design features should reflect the type of safety protection required for the job while incorporating multiple features to address general industrial hazards.
Employers should also work to update requirements to accommodate changes in the work environment or employee departmental relocations. Many industrial footwear manufacturers, such as Red Wing, offer free custom fittings in-store or on-site, ensuring that all employees are equipped with the necessary foot protection.
The severity and frequency of foot injuries is increased by improper practices among employees, including wearing inadequate or incorrect footwear, careless or inconsistent use of footwear, or complete disregard for company safety policies. It is up to employers to educate employees on the importance of appropriate work boots. Employers should also enforce protocol, while employees should always report accidents on the job to a supervisor so that it will be on file for future reference.
Why Are Safety Boots Essential for Foot Protection?
- Three-quarters of people who suffer occupational foot injuries were not wearing protective footwear at the time of the incident.
- Serious foot injuries can lead to permanent disability and unemployment.
Things to Consider When Buying Safety Boots
- What hazards are present in your particular workplace?
- What materials and design features will be necessary for adequate protection?
Top Brands of Safety Boots
- Caterpillar safety boots
- Timberland PRO safety boots
- Red Wing industrial footwear
