Importance of Safety Footwear -
Finding the perfect pair of shoes is difficult when they aren’t safety footwear, so making sure you pick the perfect ones for your work can be a task.
There is always a chance of workplace risks that involve danger to your feet and the foot is arguably the most valuable part of the body within this industry and most likely to be injured.
Being that safety footwear is one of the most important forms of PPE and the HSE sets out a minimum standard for this type of protection, it is vital that you wear the best footwear for you, whilst also complying with the law and your company rules.
But where do you begin? – It isn’t just the style you should consider, whether Boot, Shoe, Wellington but how they fit, how they will stand up against the risks associated with your job. As well as how they will stand up against how often you’ll be wearing them and for how long.
These are all qualities you should consider and are vital when picking the right shoe for you, however starting with which type of footwear to choose should be your first enquiry.
Types of Safety Footwear –
There are many different types of safety footwear that spread across a long time of development and changes, however these are the main options you should know:
This type of footwear is much lighter in weight, has thermal insulation, does not conduct electricity (meaning no more setting off metal detectors!) and most importantly they provide the same protection as a steel toecap would.
Safety Wellingtons – High-performance, rubber wellingtons with a steel toecap that protects against harsh substances and chemicals.
Being watertight, they are perfect for protection in wet conditions whilst also being slip resistant, comfortable and protective. This footwear also has anti-static qualities reducing risk of shock within the workplace.
Rating | Safety Factor |
---|---|
SB | Safety basic - toe protection |
S1 | Antistatic, energy absorption & fuel oil resistant |
S2 | As S1, plus, prevents water penetration & absorption |
S3 | As S2, plus, midsole penetration resistance |
S4 | Antistatic, energy absorption, leak-proof & fuel oil resistant |
S5 | As S4, plus leak-proof with midsole penetration resistance |
- Working as an Electrician, ESD (electrostatic discharge) safety footwear should be worn, protecting yourself from static charge.
However, finding yourself a safety boot with a durable scuff cap is also recommended, as an electrician you may find yourself up and down on your knees and that can wear away the front of the boot.
- Working as a Gardener, steel toecap Wellington boots are a great option as they will protect your feet from all the conditions of the outdoors.
Once you pick the right pair for you and your profession, there is one thing left to do – Make sure you get the right fit!
Finding out you picked the wrong size can be a big problem as you need to make sure they are perfect to protect your feet all day or all night long and they won’t be uncomfortable. This means testing them out thoroughly and trying them on more than once to make sure they’re a match, and once you have, your feet will thank you!