The Importance of Safety Shoes

Safety shoes are the most common type of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the workplace. While PPE does not guarantee protection, this equipment does minimize exposure to occupational hazards. It is important to know what style of shoe is necessary for a particular type of work and what type of shoe offers the most comfort.

Shoe Styles

• Safety shoes come in two styles: standard shoes and a military-style boot. Standard shoes are comfortable and suitable for daily activities while military-style boots are suitable for rigorous activities or jobs that require extra foot protection. The foot should be allowed to withstand pressure and must be snug inside the shoe without being too tight.

Statistics

• Foot injuries take longer to heal than many other common injuries. Sprains and fractures are the most frequent injuries in the workplace. Nineteen percent of injuries involve feet and lower limbs, costing approximately $6,000 per injury. The National Safety Council reports there 110,000 injuries to the feet and toes of American workers each year with each injury averaging seven missed workdays.

Foot Injuries

• Foot injuries in the workplace can involve punctures, crushing, sprains and lacerations. They can be caused by trips, slips and falls due to discomfort and fatigue from wearing improperly fitting shoes.

Protection

• Safety shoes can provide protection for both impact and puncture injuries. Workers who carry or handle heavy packages or materials, or who work where objects may fall on or be rolled over feet, should wear impact protection. Puncture protection can prevent injuries when a worker steps on nails, scrap metal, wires, tacks, screws and large staples. Insulating or conductive shoes may also be necessary for certain types of electrical work.

Workplace Safety

• Employee management, accountability, safety programs, safety policies, inspections for workplace hazards, training and appropriate attire are all critical components to ensure workers are protected.