When you think about safety shoes, the first
thing that probably pops into your mind is heavy-duty, steel toe boots. These
shoes are vital for foot protection as they have been reinforced to shield you
from a range of dangerous or heavy objects.
Other types of shoes exist to protect you
including those that provide traction, support, slip protection and other
safety benefits. If you are not sure what shoes you need for the job, it is
best to do a safety assessment first and determine what risks pose a threat.
Shoes may not be at the top of your list
before safety head gear and eye wear, however they are vital to your safety!
Here’s how safety shoes or boots can protect you in the workplace:
1.
Falling/flying objects – When
working in a place such as a construction site, there will be dangers all
around like machines and vehicles. Falling and flying objects are a regular occurrence
and can cause serious injuries, protective shoes like steel cap boots can
prevent serious injuries.
2.
Punctures – Heavy duty shoes
protect workers when sharp objects puncture from above or underneath.
3.
Cutting Hazards – Machinery such
as chainsaws can provide dangers like cutting. Boots made from cut resistant
materials can mean the difference between safety and catastrophic results.
4.
Electrical Dangers – Certain
workers such as electricians can face potential electric shocks which can cause
deadly results. Footwear that is made from materials like leather and rubber
are best to wear as they don’t conduct electricity.
5.
Slips, Trips and Falls –
Accidents happen in any workplace at any time. Consider installing anti-slip
floors and make sure everyone wears shoes that have proper traction.
6.
Fatigue Prevention – For those
who stand all day at work, fatigue is a real thing! Muscle in your feet as well
as in your legs can grow tired and suffer if you do not wear the right footwear
for the job.
7.
Burns – Burns from fire can happen, but then
again so can chemical burns and even burns from cement. If you work in an
environment that includes these dangers, make sure to wear the right footwear
that is made from durable materials.
8.
Extreme Weather – We all know
extreme cold weather can end in frost bite and hypothermia; this is why it is
vital for those who work in these conditions to wear insulated, waterproof
protective footwear.
Improve your safety and comfort by wearing
the right safety boots for the right job! L&A Safety has a wide range of
PPE, including safety shoes and boots – visit the website here… Or pop into one
of their stores in Cape Town, Vredenburg or Robertson!
