If you are working in the construction or manufacturing industry, you should invest in a pair of quality work safety shoes to get the required protection. Safety shoes are also known as safety boots that prevent workers from getting injured from the potential risks present on the site. These shoes are Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that protects against chemicals, sharp piercing edges, slippery surfaces, electricity, splinters, etc. Safety shoes are mandatory for those who work at the construction site, industrial setup, or where foot injuries are more common. There are a wide range of safety shoes available in the market, each designed to protect a different type of risks.
Safety toed shoes:
These shoes are ideal for truck drivers or for those who are employed to ride bikes. These shoes are manufactured using steel, alloy, and non-metallic toe cap.
Metatarsal shoes:
These shoes are designed to protect the upper part of the bone and feet.
Metal instep footwear:
Those who handle heavy equipment and machinery are recommended to wear this type of shoes to reduce the risk of injuries.
Safety shoes with steel insole:
Heavy truck riders and bike riders wear these shoes to prevent joint-related problems.
Electric hazard shoes:
On the site where electrical work is ongoing, workers and others are recommended to wear these shoes. Employees dealing with wires, circuits, and high voltage machines must wear this type of shoes to ensure safety when exposed to electricity.
Now that you are aware of different work safety shoes, you can buy one that caters to your need in the best possible way. Whether you shop online or offline, there are a few essential factors you should take into account while selecting the right pair.
Assurance:
While buying a pair of safety shoes, you should always consider safety assurance. You are investing in the shoes for the safety of your feet, so while buying look for good sole material, steel plate soles, safety toe caps, and metatarsal guards. In short, the end product you buy has to be reliable, flexible, and durable.
Comfort:
These shoes are made for industrial and construction environment, and so they have to be comfortable. While buying a pair, look for the appropriate space for toes. If you experience cramping or pinching, then return them. The safety shoes should be supportive in the arch and heel. You should be comfortable wearing them in both warm and cool temperature. If you ignore comfort while buying shoes, it can lead to hips, knees, and lower back-related issues.
Fitting:
Wearing perfect fitting safety shoes while working keeps you confident throughout the day. Make sure that the shoes are not too tight or loose or you will suffer from excessive slipping. You should replace the shoes if they fail to give you a good grip while walking and doing routine workplace activities.
Outsole:
Outsole features of the safety shoes are as crucial as insole safety measures. A pair of quality safety shoes come with the excellent outsole, providing resistance to chemicals, water, heat, gas, oil, chips, slipping, and marking. When you are exposed to unsafe temperature, the outsole of the shoes proves life saviour.
Price:
As work safety shoes are available in a wide range, you can indeed find the pair that fits in your budget. However, make sure that the price you pay justifies the features of your safety shoes.
Summary:
Whether you shop online for the safety shoes or you, visit a local store, ensure to consider all these features before you place your order. Investing in a pair of quality safety shoes always gives you the best return.