Human feet are quite vulnerable and can be damaged. The bones can break, and muscles and tendons can tear. Blood vessels can be so severely injured the blood supply could be compromised, resulting in something even worse. Skin can burn and become irritated as well. You need to have fully functioning feet to perform your job optimally.
Workers’ feet are at risk
The most common types of foot injuries that a worker can incur are traumatic. Pinching, cutting, or crushing are typical injuries from machinery, sharp objects, or falling objects.
When a part of the foot is hurting or functioning poorly, you suffer. You won’t be able to move properly, and you can be restricted in ways you cannot imagine. Personal protective equipment designed to protect the foot is available to workers who need them. Safety equipment suppliers can provide the tools.
Customized footwear for workers
Safety footwear should provide ample protection to its wearer. The shoes must be in the correct size and fit comfortably. If a person slips when walking, then the heel counter must be deep enough to hold the heel. Meanwhile, the front portion should be wide enough to accommodate the toes. The sole must be firm and won’t bend at the ball of the foot. Shoes designed for protection must be comfortable first of all.
Nevertheless, occupational protective footwear must do their job. The type of material should protect the skin and soft tissue. Special features such as chemical resistance and electrical conductivity must be in place as required by the work setting.
Ample protection at work with the right shoe
Exposure to chemicals put workers feet at risk. In this scenario, neoprene or rubber shoes should provide ample protection. If the primary risk for workers falls due to the construction or design of a floor, the shoes they wear should provide the needed traction. The addition of abrasives, cleats, and spikes should be sufficient. The design of the shoe must be specific to the needs of the environment. If the foot is at risk for injury due to falling objects, boots with steel toes should be mandatory. This design should be modified if workers are exposed to electrical hazards since steel conducts electricity.
Types of footwear
Foot protection in the workplace comes in many forms. Metatarsal guards and toe guards protect from heavy objects. Safety-toe boots protected from electrical hazards protect workers working on surfaces fed by electrical circuits. Some shoes are designed to protect the feet from molten metal, while others are water-resistant. Other shoes are intended for wearing in cold weather, equipped with insulation for the wearer’s comfort. Having the right footwear is essential, and your employer is responsible for providing you with the right pair.
In the end, safety footwear protects the wearer from injuries and lowers risks associated with particular work settings. If you are working in an environment that puts your feet at risk for injury, you have to follow safety guidelines and wear the right personal protective equipment.
