You may find it surprising, but foot injuries are some of the most common types of all workplace injuries. There are a lot of potential traps and obstacles in workplaces that lead to accidents.
So, it is essential that workers and employers both take necessary measures to prevent them. One such step would be the introduction of safety boots that are nothing but shoes that offer protection to people.
They are essential equipment for any job activity, and their protection may vary significantly, from safety against sharp objects to protection from wet.
Therefore, when choosing your safety shoes, one should consider several criteria. Read on to find out more about them.
Things to Consider When Buying Safety Boots
There are a lot of choices available in the market when it comes to buying work boots. However, you should go for boots that feel comfortable and suit your job profile.
Let’s be honest that a shoe that makes you feel uncomfortable and is unsuitable for your work would affect your performance while posing a threat to your life. Whether you work at a construction site or factory, foot protection is vital for job-related tasks safely and efficiently.
Here’s how you can buy safety boots that perfectly suit your bill.
Work Profile
The choice of safety shoes depends upon your work profile: against what are your shoes supposed to protect? For instance, will you work around electrical wires? Or will you work in mining sites?
It will help if you choose safety toes per your working environment and needs. You will generally find three types: aluminium, steel and composite.
Steel toes help prevent injuries to feet and toes on construction sites. Aluminium toes are ideal for workers who want protective shoes yet are light in weight. Lastly, composite toes are non-metallic for safety against falling objects and crushing under moving objects.
Get the Correct Size and Fit
This seems like a given, but many people still make mistakes when they look for shoes that fit, forgetting the socks they will wear underneath. Look at the size and width of the boots carefully before making a purchase. After all, you will be on your feet for long periods. You won’t survive even a few hours of work if they are not the perfect fit.
Quality Material
Always watch out for material when purchasing work boots. Buy something with a longer life and made of superior quality that will withstand the harsher conditions your job puts you through.
If you buy cheap to save money, it would cost you a greater bill when you suffer a foot injury.
Also, never buy second-hand shoes, even from a friend or relative. They will come with added wear and tear, and what if they have already exhausted their safe limit? Of course, you won’t like to find out the answer to this through a caterpillar driving over your foot.
The Bottom Line
On average, a person needs new safety shoes every year. However, in some scenarios earlier in case they are broken or worn out. This depends mainly on you and how you use your boots for work. However, don’t drag your shoes for a longer period despite their bad shape to save money.
By ensuring you are wearing the correct shoes for your work that fits well and comfortably, you are covering a huge chunk of your workplace safety.
Remember, precaution is always better than cure.
