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Choosing the Right Safety Footwear for Your Industry

Choosing the right safety footwear for your employees can be one of your most important safety selections. If done improperly, a worker may find themselves in an accident to which they should never have been exposed. But how to choose the right safety footwear?

Best Safety Footwear Focuses on Primary Risk Protection.

When it comes to safety footwear for your industry, the best option is the one that focuses on protection against the primary risks involved in it. Whether it is in a factory, a construction site, or a laboratory, there are specific hazards that your employees need to be protected against. Ask your employees or colleagues what they think the hazards are. They may notice things that are not obvious to you and may have some good ideas on controlling the risks.

Risk Assessments for Safety Footwear

When choosing the right safety footwear for your industry, assessing the risks involved in the work is vital. For example, a person working on a building site/demolition workplace would be unwise to buy a safety product that did not have a midsole to protect against underfoot nail penetration. A petrol station worker is at a high risk of flammability and should get boots with electrical-resistance properties.

Risk assessments for Safety Footwear will help you determine what specific features your employee’s safety footwear needs to protect them from injury. There are a few key things to look for when conducting a risk assessment for safety footwear:

• Slip resistance: If the work in your industry is constantly on your feet, slip resistance is a must. Look for shoes with good traction that will keep your employees safe on wet or oily surfaces.
• Puncture resistance: If the work is with sharp objects or in an environment with many potential hazards on the ground, puncture-resistant shoes are a must. They can help prevent serious injuries if your employee steps on something sharp or dangerous.
• Electrical hazard protection: If the work is with electrical equipment or in an environment with a risk of electrocution, look for shoes that offer electrical hazard protection. This type of footwear is designed to protect your employees from electrical shocks and can help save their lives in dangerous situations.
• Chemical resistance: If the work is with chemicals or in an environment with a risk of exposure to harmful substances, Chemical resistance shoes are a must.
• Thermal-resistant - If your industry has to work in extreme temperatures, thermal-resistant (TR) boots and shoes will help to protect your employee’s foot against extreme temperatures. They have special insulation to protect against heat or cold.

Get the Right Size and Don’t Compromise On Comfort.

Choosing a style that fits well and is comfortable is essential, as your employee will wear them for long periods. Safety footwear can be heavy, so choose a pair that won’t leave your employee's feet feeling sore and tired at the end of the day.

Never Buy Second-hand Footwear.

Second-hand footwear is a huge no-no when it comes to safety footwear. You never know what kind of wear and tear the previous owner put on the shoes, and they may not provide the same level of protection as a brand new pair. If you are on a budget, look for sales or discounts instead of resorting to used footwear.

Aftercare of Your Safety Footwear

Once you have purchased the right safety footwear for your industry, it is vital to consider aftercare to increase your investment's lifespan. Here are a few tips:

• 1. Inspect your footwear regularly for any damage or wear and tear. It will help you identify any areas that need to be repaired or replaced.
• 2. Clean your shoes regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Be sure to remove any dirt, debris, or grime that could potentially cause damage.
• 3. Store your shoes in a dry, cool place when not in use. It will help prevent them from deteriorating prematurely.
• 4. When possible, rotate between multiple pairs of safety footwear. This will evenly distribute wear and tear and extend the overall life of your shoes.

You also need to consider your budget when choosing safety footwear. There are many types of safety footwear on the market, ranging in price from relatively inexpensive to quite expensive. Choose the type of footwear that fits both your needs and your budget.