Protective Footwear

     The Personal Protective Equipment regulation, CFR 1910.136 has a very comprehensive set of requirements when addressing employee’s foot protection. It states that “The employer shall ensure that each affected employee uses protective footwear when working in areas where there is a danger of foot injuries due to falling or rolling objects piercing the sole, and where such employee’s feet are exposed to electrical hazards. The ruling continues with the statement that protective footwear must comply with The American Society for Testing and Material (ASTM) regulation “Standard Specification for Performance Requirements for Protective Footwear. And, by definition, that standard meets the qualifications established by The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) regulation.

     In addition there is also an alliance between The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) and OSHA to help reduce workplace injuries and illnesses, with the focus on ergonomics. The AAFA have published a training manual for health and safety supervisors. The two organizations have also published “A guide to Implementing an Ergonomics Process” aimed at developing an ergonomic process for manufacturing, warehousing and office work.

     Wearing the proper type of foot protection means protection from both possible impact from an object and by compression, the rolling over or

overall weight of an object that has landed on a foot. Shoes must also protect against possible electric shock.

     Steel-toe-boots are very durable. They have a protective reinforcement in the toe protecting against any type of compression. The boots also have a mid-sole plate to protect against punctures. Metatarsal guards should be worn for protection above the toes. Footwear made from rubber or neoprene is designed to protect against potential chemical or corrosive splashes. Electrical Hazard (EH) Safety shoes are designed to help impede the flow of electricity from the shoe to ground. There is also static electricity dissipating safety shoes.

    Generally, safety shoes are designed with soft soles and insoles. This helps reduce fatigue and discomfort to the hips, legs and knees caused by standing for long periods of time. Nylon mesh and leather combination boots are used in warm weather. They are lightweight and flexible. For harsh conditions, full-grain leather boots are used. They are durable and water-resistant. For law enforcement and military use, boots are made of rugged leather and athletic cement construction, whereby the outside of the boot is glued to the upper part of the boot.  This provides form-fitting comfort, durability and flexibility.