Protective Footwear Features to Combat Workplace Hazards

There are many types of workplace hazards that can affect the safety and health of employees, and different types of shoes may be necessary to protect against different hazards. Some common types of workplace hazards and corresponding protective features for shoes include:

Slip Resistance

If a workplace has slick or wet surfaces, slip-resistant shoes can help prevent slips and falls. Look for shoes with rubber or other slip-resistant soles. Industries that require slip resistant shoes include food service, healthcare, manufacturing, construction, and hospitality.

Electrical Hazards

If a workplace involves exposure to electrical hazards, shoes with electrical hazard protection (EH) can help protect against electrical shock. Safety shoes must comply with ASTM standards for electrical hazard protection (tested to provide an electrical hazard protection of 18,000 volts at 60 Hz for one minute with no current flow in the shoe).

Static Electricity Buildup

Static dissipative (SD) shoes are required in environments where there is a risk of static electricity buildup and subsequent discharge. These types of environments include those where flammable liquids, gases, or dusts are present, as well as environments where electronic equipment is being manufactured or repaired. Some work places that require SD shoes are oil and gas refineries, chemical plants, pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, and food processing plants.

Static Electricity Buildup

In industries like construction, agriculture, and manufacturing, employees may be exposed to sharp objects. Puncture-resistant (PR) shoes can help protect against foot injuries. Look for footwear with composite toes or steel toe shoes.

Chemical Resistance

If a work environment involves exposure to chemicals, chemical-resistant shoes can help protect against chemical burns and other injuries. Some industries that expose employees to chemicals may include manufacturing, agriculture, construction, or oil and gas production. Look for shoes made from materials that are resistant to chemicals, such as PVC or neoprene.

Heat Resistance

If a workplace involves exposure to heat, heat-resistant shoes can help protect against burns and other injuries. Look for shoes made from materials that are resistant to heat, such as leather or rubber. Industries that expose employees to heat include construction, manufacturing, agriculture, mining, and transportation.

Flame Resistance

Often times work places that require heat resistant shoes also require proper clothing. Employees working around fire hazards are typically required to wear flame-resistant (FR) clothing. This type of apparel is designed to self-extinguish in the event of a fire and is made from materials that are less likely to catch fire and spread flames. The specific type of FR clothing required will depend on the specific hazards present in the work environment. For example, in a welding environment, employees may be required to wear FR welding jackets and pants, while in a petrochemical facility, employees may be required to wear FR coveralls and hoods. OSHA and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) have standards for the type of flame-resistant apparel that is appropriate for different types of hazards.

Finding the right work footwear and apparel for your employees is crucial for protecting them against workplace hazards that they may be subject to. Make sure to understand Occupational Safety & Health Administration and ATSM footwear and apparel standards in your industry, and use a PPE program allow your employees easy access to products that keep them safe.

Zappos at Work meets with your business leaders to understand your safety needs and hand pick your safety workwear assortment. With the widest range of brands and products, we aim to keep your employees safe through any type of workplace hazard.