Tips for Choosing The Appropriate Size of Safety Shoes

Choosing the appropriate size is almost as important as choosing the appropriate level of protection. After all, ill-fitting footwear causes discomfort and, in some cases, accidents, decreased productivity, and long-term health issues.

Here are some key points to consider when making your decision:

When Choosing Between Sizes: If you can't decide between two sizes, go with the larger one. This will allow your employees' feet to breathe and will allow for any swelling that may occur after a long day of work.

Seasonal Variations: The appropriate size may vary depending on the season. To keep their feet warm in cold weather, your employees may wear thicker socks or even double socks. Likewise, some safety shoes have an insulating lining for cold weather. Check that there is enough room for these additions without making the shoe too tight. Conversely, in hot weather, your employees' feet may swell more, so it's critical to have shoes that won't become too tight.

Try-On: Before purchasing, always select a small group of workers for a try-on. Request that they walk around to get a sense of the fit. Uncomfortable shoes can cause distraction and discomfort, which can be dangerous on the job.

Work Socks: When trying on safety shoes, ask your employees to wear the same socks they normally wear to work. This will give them a better idea of how the shoes will fit during the workday.

Is There a Difference Between Work Shoes for Men and Women?

The shape, width, and size of men's and women's feet can vary greatly. This is why selecting the proper safety footwear is more than just a matter of size.

In general, women's shoes are designed with a narrower heel and a wider forefoot than men's shoes. Consider a woman who normally wears a 42 in men's shoes. Even if you give her a men's safety shoe, the fit will be unsatisfactory if the heel is too wide, causing her foot to slip out, or the forefoot is too narrow, causing discomfort. Because of the differences in foot shape, this woman may require a 41 in women's sizes.

When sourcing, make sure that the work shoes are available in sizes and widths that are appropriate for both genders. This could imply sourcing from multiple suppliers. In addition to the regular order of men's safety shoes, you may need to order from a supplier that offers a specific line of safety shoes designed for women.

Where Should You Wear Safety Shoes?

Different workplace environments present unique hazards that necessitate specialized protection.

Here are some examples of specific workplace situations and the associated safety footwear features to consider:

1. Electric shock: Workers in industries such as electronics manufacturing and electrical repair work with devices that carry electrical currents. To avoid electrocution, an electrician working on power lines, for example, would need work shoes with anti-static and electrical resistance properties.

2. Sharp Objects: Construction workers or carpenters are frequently exposed to nails, shards of glass, and other sharp objects. Puncture-resistant boots are required in these situations. When a construction worker steps on a nail, a shoe with a puncture-resistant sole prevents the nail from penetrating through.

3. Heavy objects, such as tools or machinery parts, can fall from shelves or workbenches in industries such as warehousing or manufacturing. For example, a factory worker would benefit from wearing workshoes with steel or composite toe caps that protect against impacts.

4. Explosive or Electrostatic Discharge: There is a risk of flammable materials igniting due to static electricity in environments such as pharmaceutical manufacturing or grain processing. To reduce the risk of sparks igniting volatile substances, workers in these environments should wear footwear with anti-static or electrostatic dissipative properties.

5. Water, extreme heat, or cold exposure: Certain industries, such as fishing or metal smelting, expose workers to water, extreme heat, or cold. A fisherman working on a trawler, for example, would require work boots with cold-weather insulation and water-repellent uppers to keep their feet dry and warm.

6. Welding Spray, Molten Metal, or Corrosive Liquids: Welding spray, molten metal, or corrosive liquids are frequently used by workers in metal fabrication or chemical processing. A welder who works with sparks and molten metal would require footwear that is both fire-resistant and resistant to molten metal.

7. Uneven Ground: The ground is often uneven in outdoor environments such as construction sites or hiking trails, posing a risk of sprains or injuries. A surveyor, for example, working in rough terrain would benefit from ankle support shoes to prevent injuries.

Cleaning and Disposal

Work shoes must be cared for for their protective features to last. However, no matter how well they are cared for, even the best safety shoes on the market will eventually need to be replaced.

Here are some signs that it's time for a new pair:

1. Visible Protective Elements: If a protective element, such as a reinforced toe, steel midsole, steel shank, or metatarsal guard, begins to show through, replace the boots immediately.

2. Dented Toe Caps: After a significant impact or puncture, steel toe caps can dent and fail to spring back. Because composite toe caps may not show visible damage as easily, it's critical to keep track of major incidents that could jeopardize the safety features' integrity.

3. Separation of Parts or Seams: As safety boots made of rubber or PVC wear out, they may show visible separation of parts or seams. If you notice any separation, it's time to replace your shoes.

4. Outsoles Worn: Take note of the tread on your shoes. The shoes will no longer provide adequate slip resistance once the tread becomes smooth.

5. Leakage: If your job requires you to work in damp environments or expose yourself to hazardous chemicals or other corrosive materials, any sign of leakage in your shoes should signal that they need to be replaced.

Finally, routinely inspecting and caring for your work shoes ensures that they provide the best protection over their lifespan. If you notice signs of wear and tear, it's time to replace your work boots to stay safe and healthy on the job.