Are you stepping into a hazardous environment or job site with nothing but your everyday shoes? Hold up! Your feet deserve better than that. Whether you're in construction, manufacturing, or any industry where hazards lurk, your feet need adequate protection, and that goes for your feet, too. It's a no-brainer.

The company is the world’s best PVC Safety Boots for Loggers supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

But how do you decipher those cryptic safety labels on work boots? Has the alphabet soup of acronyms left you scratching your head in search of answers? In this comprehensive guide to safety footwear standards and regulations, we'll decode those safety footwear labels, ensuring you stride confidently into the workplace, equipped to tackle whatever may come your way. Literally.

Safety first, right?

What Are the Safety Requirements for Work Boots?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of safety labels, let's understand why they're there in the first place. Safety recommendations are about more than just checking boxes. Safety footwear regulations are the cornerstone of workplace safety, ensuring that every step you take is a secure one.

Safety requirements for work boots are like armor for your feet, crafted to keep you from harm's way. They shield you from sharp objects, heavy materials, electrical shocks, slips and falls, and a barrage of other potential workplace hazards. And it's not just about meeting the bare minimum – it's about going above and beyond to ensure that your boots are equipped with the adequate safety features needed to keep you safe in any situation. 

Why Are Safety Boots Important? 

Why wear safety boots in the workplace? Think about it. Would you go to battle without your armor? Of course not! Similarly, you shouldn't venture into a hazardous workplace without proper protective footwear. 

Apart from the obvious protection they provide, there are also legal requirements for safety in many industries mandating the use of safety shoes. Ignoring these requirements not only jeopardizes your safety but can also land you in hot water with the authorities. 

Why Safety Labels Matter?

Now, let's get down to business. Why should you care about those safety work boot labels plastered on your pair in the first place? Because they're a testament to the protective features of your footwear.

• Protection against workplace hazards

  : Safety labels act as your guardian angels, alerting you to potential dangers and ensuring you're adequately protected with the right safety-proofed occupational footwear that meets or even exceeds (because, why the heck not?) the demands of your activity or workplace.

• Compliance with safety regulations and standards:

  Many industries have stringent safety regulations in place, and adherence to these standards is non-negotiable. Safety labels indicate whether your choice of boots meets these requirements.

• Ensuring personal safety and well-being:

  At the end of the day, it's all about you. Safety labels are there to safeguard your feet from harm, ensuring you go home in one piece. It's that simple.

Understanding Safety Standards & Certifications

Work boots safety standards and certifications are guidelines that ensure the quality and performance of protective footwear for various work environments and hazards. They are developed by organizations such as ASTM International, OSHA, ANSI, CSA (Canadian Standards Association) for Canada, and EN ISO (European Norm International Organization for Standardization) for Europe, who test and evaluate the footwear’s features and capabilities.

For the US markets, we'll focus on:

ANSI/ASTM Standards

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) have set the gold standard for safety footwear. These standards outline minimum requirements for impact resistance, compression protection, puncture resistance, and more. 

When your boots bear the ANSI/ASTM seal, you can trust they've undergone rigorous testing to keep your feet safe.

• ASTM F2413-18:

  This document outlines the performance requirements for safety toe cap footwear in the United States, dictating labeling on boots and shoes. It covers aspects such as impact resistance, compression resistance, metatarsal protection, electrical hazard protection, and puncture resistance. 

• ASTM F2892:

  This standard specifies the performance requirements for soft-toe protective footwear in the US, excluding safety or protective toe caps. It focuses on electrical hazard protection and puncture resistance.

• ANSI Z41-1999:

  Previously the standard for protective footwear in the US, it has been replaced by ASTM F2413 since 2005. However, some footwear may still bear this label. It addresses impact resistance, compression resistance, metatarsal protection, electrical hazard protection, conductive protection, and static dissipative protection.

OSHA Requirements

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or simply OSHA, also has your back when it comes to workplace safety. Their regulations stipulate the need for foot protection in various industries. OSHA guidelines influence safety label requirements on work boots, ensuring you're equipped to tackle workplace hazards head-on.

Most Common Types of Safety Labels & Features for Work Boots

Let's break down some of the most common safety labels and features you'll encounter when shopping for a pair of safety work boots:

1. Impact resistance

When heavy objects come crashing down, your boots need to absorb the blow to avoid workplace injuries. Boots labeled with impact resistance (IR) protect your feet from impact in the face of falling debris or rolling objects – a common hazard for workers in various industries, especially construction workers. 

It refers to a material’s ability to withstand sudden or intense force or shock and is an important feature of various types of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety shoes, work gloves, glasses, etc. The shoe must be able to withstand the impact without allowing too much intrusion into the toe space, which could cause injury. 

Different standards, such as ASTM F-2413 safety designation, specify different levels of impact resistance for safety shoes, depending on the work environment and the potential hazards. Safety toe boots that meet the impact resistance requirements are usually labeled with a code that indicates the type and level of protection they offer. 

For example,  ASTM F2413 I/75 C/75 means the shoe can resist an impact of up to 75 foot-pounds and a compressive load of up to 2,500 pounds.

2. Electrical Hazard Protection

Working around live wires? Electrical Hazard (EH) protection is non-negotiable. These labels indicate that your protective work boots can withstand electrical shocks, keeping you safe from potentially lethal currents. EH protection is achieved by using materials that have low electrical conductivity, such as rubber, leather, or composite materials, to prevent the flow of electricity through the body.

They also have high electrical resistance, which means they do not easily change their electrical properties when exposed to voltage or current. Electrical shock resistance is the ability of a material to withstand a specified amount of voltage without breaking down or causing injury. EH protective work boots must meet the electrical shock resistance requirements of the relevant standards, such as ASTM F2413 EH (protection against open circuits up to 600 volts in dry conditions), and are usually marked with an EH symbol or a green triangle with a white letter E inside.

In some cases, a CSA White rectangle with an orange Greek letter omega - Ω signifies that the soles offer resistance to electric shock – the ability to withstand up to 18,000 Volts without compromising safety and that any leakage current does not exceed 1mA for a duration of 60 seconds.

3. Dielectric Insulation

While safety boots with electrical hazard resistance offer sufficient protection for many workers across various job sites, dielectrically insulated (DI) footwear takes safety to the next level, ensuring an extra layer of protection against electrical charges and hazards.

So, if you're navigating a maze of live wires or working in close proximity to electrical equipment, make sure you choose proper safety footwear equipped with dielectric insulation – it could save your life.

4. Slip Resistance

The "SR" acronym stands for slip resistance. In slippery conditions and wet environments, your workplace safety footwear should be your trusty sidekicks, not your downfall. Boots with slip-resistant soles provide the traction you need to navigate slick surfaces without ending up on your backside. They're often labeled with a grey square symbol with a black “R.”

In the realm of slip-resistance certifications, you'll often encounter three distinct categories: SRA, SRB, and SRC, indicating varying levels of slip resistance, helping you gauge how well your footwear will perform on different surfaces. 

For instance, SRA signifies resistance against slip hazards on ceramic tile floors with detergent, SRB indicates resistance on steel floors with glycerol, and SRC combines both SRA and SRB criteria, offering comprehensive protection across multiple surfaces.

5. Puncture Resistance

Nails, shards, and other sharp objects pose a constant threat in many workplaces - that's where sole puncture protection comes in. Boots with puncture-resistant (PR) soles (labeled with a green triangle with “R” in White Circle) act as additional protection, preventing these hazards from piercing through and causing harm, thus reducing the danger of foot injuries to workers.

6. Compression Resistance

Under the weight of heavy machinery, your feet need all the support and extra protection they can get. Compression-resistant (CR) boots distribute pressure evenly, reducing the risk of crushing injuries. Compression resistance is measured by applying a compressive load onto the safety toe boxes and checking the amount of intrusion into the toe space. 

The shoe must be able to resist the load without exceeding the maximum allowable intrusion, which could cause injury to the toes. According to the ASTM standards for safety footwear, the level of compression resistance is labeled using the letter C, followed by a number that indicates the level of protection. 

For example, C/75 means the shoe can resist a compressive load of up to 2,500 pounds. There are three levels of protection: 30, 50, and 75. Class 75 is the highest level and is recommended for most safety footwear needs.

7. Chemical Resistance

From corrosive substances to caustic chemicals, your boots should stand up to whatever the job throws at them. Chemical-resistant boots keep your feet safe from harmful substances, ensuring you can focus on the task at hand, usually made of PVC, rubber or neoprene. They're ideal for industrial environments like chemical plants, laboratories, oil refineries, and agricultural fields.

8. Metatarsal Protection

The delicate metatarsal bones in your feet deserve extra TLC. Metatarsal protection (MT) shields this vulnerable area from impact and compression injuries, keeping you on your feet and in the game, especially if you work in heavy industries and construction. 

Protective footwear labeled with a Black rectangle donning the letter "M" – will safeguard your metatarsals against potential injuries stemming from the impact of hefty objects. 

9. Static Dissipative Properties

In environments where static charges abound, static dissipative boots are your best defense. Dissipative footwear prevents the buildup of static electricity, reducing the risk of sparks and shocks. Keep an eye out for the CSA Yellow rectangle sporting a green "SD+" emblem accompanied by a grounding symbol – it's a telltale sign that the soles are static-dissipative. 

These specially crafted soles boast an anti-static protection compound engineered to swiftly neutralize electrostatic charges in a controlled manner. Tested rigorously to meet ASTMF2412 standards, each specimen must demonstrate a resistance falling within the range of 106 Ohms to 3.5 x 107 Ohms. So, when you spot this emblem on your boots, rest assured that they're equipped to keep those pesky static charges at bay, ensuring you stay safe and grounded.

In the ASTM language, static dissipative footwear falls under the ASTM F2413 standard and presents itself in three tiers of protection: ESD 100, ESD 35, and ESD 10 boasting sole resistance levels of up to 100 megaohms, 35 megaohms, and 10 megaohms, respectively.

Tips for Interpreting and Selecting the Right Safety Labels

So, you've got a good grasp of what those safety labels, features, and standards mean – now it's time to put that knowledge to work. Here are some handy tips to help you navigate the world of safety footwear like a pro:

Assess the Specific Hazards in Your Workplace

Not all hazards are created equal, and neither are all safety work boots. Take stock of the specific dangers present in your workplace – whether it's the risk of electrical shocks, heavy objects falling, or slippery surfaces – and prioritize accordingly. Understanding the unique challenges you face is the first step toward selecting the right safety features labeled on your boots.

Consult with Safety Professionals or Supervisors

When in doubt, don't hesitate to seek guidance from those in the know. Safety professionals or supervisors can offer valuable insights based on their experience and expertise. They can help you navigate the complexities of safety regulations and recommend the best footwear options to suit your needs.

Consider Additional Features 

While meeting basic safety requirements is essential, don't overlook the potential benefits of additional features. From waterproofing and insulation to heat resistance and ballistic nylon uppers, there are plenty of extras to enhance comfort and performance on the job. Take the time to explore your options and weigh the trade-offs between added features and cost.

Ensure Proper Fit and Comfort

Last but certainly not least, never underestimate the importance of fit and comfort. Even the most protective boots won't do you much good if they pinch your toes or rub against your heels. Take the time to try on different styles and sizes, and pay attention to how they feel on your feet. If shopping online, you can use our sizing guide.

Remember, you'll be spending long hours in these boots, so prioritize comfort as much as safety.

Safety Starts from the Ground Up: Get Familiar with Safety Footwear Labels

Armed with this knowledge, you'll be ready to tackle the wide range of products in the safety footwear market. Remember, when it comes to workplace safety, there's no such thing as too much protection! In the hustle and bustle of the workplace, safety should never take a backseat. 

With the right safety work boots, you're not just investing in footwear – you're investing in your future, your well-being, and your peace of mind. Whether you're navigating construction sites, bustling warehouses, or high-voltage environments, your safety is paramount. Take the first step towards a safer tomorrow and explore the wide range of safety work boots available at Overlook Boots. 

We've got your back!

If you want to learn more, please visit our website PVC Safety Boots for Landscaping.

Safety Footwear

More information on safety footwear manufacturers >

Currently, there is no single accepted international standard for protective safety footwear. But many countries recognise similar industrial footwear standards that keep workers safe across construction, mining, and other high-risk industries. These include a minimum 200 joules protection, toe guards, and chemical resistance among other key aspects.

So why is safety footwear, safety footwear guide information and safe PPE practice so important for industry sectors? What makes good safety shoes? And what sort of risks do safety boots protect a worker from?

When thinking about safety shoes, you must consider industry safety ratings, determine hazards in the work environment, and ensure all PPE is maintained under acceptable quality control.

Safety footwear is a fundamental element of many workers PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) that is often overlooked and associated with a ‘that-should-fit’ mentality. There are two main safety features to consider when determining what makes good safety shoes: protection against workplace health and safety risks, and also personal foot health from an orthopaedic perspective.

In high-risk working environments, safety footwear must provide an adequate level of protection against falling objects and slippery surfaces, among other risks. Good safety boots and PPE must make sure the worker is comfortable whilst working, as well as offer assurance and protection.

Good footwear also links to good foot health. We forget how important our feet are, only appreciating foot health when it’s too late. Most orthopaedic aches and pains can be easily fixed by looking at the footwear being used. Look after workers from top to bottom, starting at the toes, and you’ll be amazed at what difference good boots/shoes can make.

With decent safety footwear in place, good foot health will follow. Professional fittings and knowledgeable manufacturing ensure boots and shoes are made to an acceptable standard. Removable insoles, water-resistant panels, and composite or steel toe cap features are just some examples of elements required in industrial and occupational footwear for safe work practice.

Whether you are in mining or construction, environmental monitoring or on the factory floor, safety footwear PPE is a well needed procedure for both health and safety.

Looking at the standards and ratings is a simple way to measure how ‘good’ safety footwear is and necessary to meet industry rules and regulations. Footwear test methods are completed in controlled laboratories by manufacturers to guarantee and verify compliance of the boots and safety shoes. While there is not a globally recognised standard, each region does use a similar system that considers the same aspects.

• European: EN ISO 20345 (which is also recognised as a British Safety Standard in the United Kingdom)
• United States: ASTM
• Canada: CSA
• Singapore: SS513 (which is almost identical to the EN standard)

These safety standards provide a benchmark for manufacturers to meet in order to produce and sell Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for occupational protection. All safety footwear is tested against this standard to ensure the quality and safety of the product before going out to sites and workplaces.

Standard EN ISO 20345 Explained

EN ISO 20345 may look complicated but, when broken down, comprises the specific basic requirements needed for footwear to meet industry standards.

• EN: the current European standard code, recognised and accepted by BSI (British Standards Institution)
• ISO: International Organisation for Standardization defines a minimum for all PPE products
• 20345: the assigned legislation number for areas of occupational footwear

This code is followed by the year the standard was updated: BS EN ISO 13287:2019 is a currently recognised standard. The latest updates include slip resistance testing methods, along with the 200 joule impact-resistance of EN ISO 20345:2011. Other minimum requirements include toe protection, as a steel cap or other durable materials; 15KN compression test, equivalent to 1.5 tonnes resting on the toe area; and an oil-resistant outer sole.

This all falls in line with the Safety Basic (SB) level of protection and standard for safety footwear protects workers from falling objects, electrical conductivity, and other industrial and occupational hazards.

Additional Codes and Abbreviations

Some footwear have additional safety features that display separate codes and abbreviations along with the industry standard. These are a greater guide to safety shoes:

• A Anti-static
• AN Ankle Protection
• C Conductive
• CI Cold Insulation
• CR Cut Resistant Upper
• E Energy Absorption
• FO Fuel/Oil Resistant Outsole
• HI Heat Insulation
• HRO Outsole is Resistant to Hot Contact
• I Electricity Insulated
• M Metatarsal Protection
• P Penetration Resistance
• WR Water Resistance
• WRU Water Penetration and Water Absorption Resistant Upper
• ESD Electro-Static Discharge Resistant

In addition to SB protection are more specific and specialised ratings that are suitable for a particular role. These “S-Ratings” are a combination of the abbreviations mentioned above and all have SB Safety Basic qualities as a minimum:

• SBP: an additional mid-sole penetration protection plate made from steel or composite material to protect the foot.
• S1: anti-static, oil-resistant and energy absorption on the heel, often paired with HI features
• S1P: same as S1 with additional mid-sole penetration protection for the foot
• S2: prevents water penetration with specialised upper materials
• S3: same as S2 but with a midsole water penetration resistance as well
• S4: same as S1 but also leak-proof, typically safety wellies made from rubber
• S5: same as S5 along with a midsole penetration resistance

Along with these additional types of safety-ratings are specific codes for anti-slip attributes. These have all been tested for slip resistance under different conditions:

• SRA: tested on a ceramic tile which has been soaked with Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (soap)
• SRB: tested on steel plates which have been soaked with Glycerol
• SRC: tested and certified against both SRA and SRB conditions

Slipping is one of the highest causes of injuries in the workplace, along with trips and falls. Correct PPE distribution can reduce this risk for workers.

Post BREXIT Safety Standards

It is important to be on the front foot of PPE safety standards. As the United Kingdom leaves the EU, a lot of aspects for some industries will be changing along with Brexit.

BSI and the UK Government will be working closely together to maintain a high standard for workplace safety. Brexit and product safety should be considered and closely monitored over the next months as the transition continues. BSI will continue to influence post-Brexit trade and standards for consumers, environmental and labour.

EN ISO 20345:2011 is currently under review and will be replaced by ISO/DIS 20345 specifications.

Identifying Work Place Risks

The first step in safety boots or industrial footwear selection is to conduct a hazard assessment of the workplace environment. A hazard assessment, or risk assessment, is extremely important for any workplace and should not be overlooked or rushed.

The type of safety shoes you choose will depend on the hazards to which the worker is exposed to.

Sources of risk and hazards to the foot can include, but are not limited to:

• Slips, trips, and falls
• Specialised equipment and machinery
• Electricity static build-up
• Chemicals, fuel, oil, or water absorption
• Sharp objects puncturing the sole
• Impacts resulting in crush injury
• Extreme temperatures

Exposure to these hazards without appropriate PPE and safety boots in a work environment can result in significant accidents and injuries. Broken bones, burns, or in extreme cases, amputation and loss of the use of the foot and lower leg are just some of the risks for workers without proper care and attention. There are then long term health conditions and overall foot health to be factored into the decision.

Whether you need oil resistant or slip-resistant outsole features, or heat resistant and energy absorption qualities, the levels of protection required need careful consideration. Assessing what the specific risks are will determine what type of boot or shoe is needed for the job.

Types of Safety Shoes

There is a whole range of safety shoes, safety boots, and safety trainers, meeting an EN ISO 20345 standard, ready for high-risk industries. When picking out safety footwear, you must make sure to consider the following:

• Compliance to EN ISO 20345 Standards (or equivalent) as detailed and outlined in the above sections.
• Material – leather or synthetic, which is most suitable for the job and environment? The footprint of our footwear is more important than looking good and being comfortable.
• Indoor or outdoor use specifications.
• Temperature exposure to hot or cold environments and surfaces.
• Climate specifics in sun, snow or rainy conditions.
• Oil or chemical exposure, among others mentioned above.

EH safety trainers and footwear are designed with specialised outer sole layers to provide a level of protection from electrical shock in the workplace. This is for environments where the wearer may accidentally step on a live wire or charged electrical equipment.

If the work environment will have the worker intentionally come into contact with live electricity, then EH footwear should not be worn but rather CD or static dissipative safety footwear. The anti-static feature allows static electricity to transfer from the wearer to the walking surface. This will protect sensitive electronic devices and equipment from a static electric discharge that could be highly damaging.

Toe Cap Safety Boot

Protective toe caps are fitted to some safety boot designs to provide impact and compression resistance. Traditionally, these have been toe protection steel toe caps, however, there is now a whole range of materials available for toe protection.

Aluminium types are a good lightweight alternative, and, more recently, plastic or composite non-metallic materials have entered the marketplace for industrial boots. Whereas, composite toe cap protection is ideal for those working in environments under extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. The non-metallic material does not conduct heat, cold, or electricity, making them safe and reliable.

Rigger Boots

Often described as the real devoted boot of industrial footwear, a Rigger Boot is a pull-on safety boot for general-purpose work. Rigger Boots were originally standard issue to workers on the offshore oil rigs in the North Sea, which is where the name comes from.

As far as PPE goes, this boot type is considered basic and lacks ankle protection and support. However, they do provide a decent level of cold insulation and protection from water penetration.

• Metatarsal Guard: A reinforced layer in the upper portion of the shoe can provide metatarsal protection to the bones by deflecting falling objects and impact energy-absorbing. This feature is commonly used in areas where workers are at a higher risk of objects falling or rolling onto the metatarsal area of the foot.
• Puncture Resistant: Midsole penetration resistance with a permanently fixed insole material inside the shoe, stopping penetration of certain objects through the bottom of the sole.
• Slip Resistant: A sole designed to provide high friction with the walking surfaces, improving slip resistance and personal safety. Often this is tested on ceramic tile and other surfaces to meet anti-slip footwear safety standards.
• Metal Free / Airport Friendly: Shows with zero metal components are ideal for jobs around sensitive metal detectors, such as airport scanning security devices.
• Insulated: Cold environments and climates may need additional safety in regards to warmth and comfort. Boot linings from insulation materials help keep worker’s feet warm and comfortable.
• Waterproof: Boots with a combination of water-resistant/waterproof materials and proper construction helps protect workers from water penetration in environments where excess water is present. Weatherproof footwear hybrids are a rising popular choice among the industries.
• Side Zip: A quick-access side zipper can be convenient in some workplaces.
• Anti-Microbial: Moisture-wicking linings provide protection against odour, staining and deterioration caused by bacteria, fungus and other microorganisms. This also promotes good foot health in the workforce.

Along with meeting safety standards for safety footwear, you must ensure the shoes are a good fit.

 

Poorly fitted shoes can lead to several health problems including bunions, blisters, back issues, heel pain, calluses, and more. Professional and well fitted boots will avoid injuries.

• Toe Area: It needs to be deep enough to allow movement in the toes without being a trip hazard to the worker. With correct padding and shape to the boot, the toe cap should be unnoticed if included.
• Heel: Broad base and contour no higher than 4cm.
• Insole: Preferably removable to help with maintaining hygiene.
• Lining: Breathable, smooth, and lining-free to avoid any irritation.
• Sole and Mid Sole: Strong but flexible with adequate shock absorption. The material should be rubber, PU, or PVC for non-slip function.
• Outer: Waterproof/water-resistant upper and tough material for cut-resistant quality.
• Fastening: Laces, buckles, Velcro – providing a secure fit and further ankle protection. BOA fittings is a specialised technology often found in golf and cycling footwear.

PPE and safety footwear in the workplace is a must and it is important everyone understands. Communicating the demands of the job and the conditions to worker’s is an essential step necessary for a safe working environment.

• Assessments of risks – investigating and highlighting all hazards involved in a job will avoid injury and accidents.
• Choose appropriate safety footwear for the job – after you know the risks, and the working conditions, you can choose the required PPE that will perfectly match the job.
• Monitor footwear condition – keeping a close eye on the condition of PPE is just as important as initially introducing it. Keep gear clean and stored out of the elements to prolong its lifespan.
• Conduct briefings regularly with workers – help draw attention to changing hazards and educate the importance of personal safety when on site.

Employer Motivation for Safety Shoe Health and Safety

There are several reasons why employers need to keep on top of Health and Safety standards and the safety boots within the workforce.

• Legal – as an employer, you must comply with the set standards.
• Moral – you have a duty of care to workers to prevent injury and harm.
• Financial – compensation, liability claim, fines, loss of labour all have higher costs than issuing safety boots.

FAQ

What is the standard for safety shoes?

Standard EN ISO 20345 determines the basic requirements for commercial safety footwear. Safety boots and shoes that meet the EN ISO 20345 standard protect the user from crushing, bumps, falling objects, sharp and rough surfaces, varying temperatures, and substances, such as fuel, oil, chemicals, and so on. There is no globally accepted set standard for safety footwear, however, EN ISO 20345 is widely recognised across Europe as the European Standard. The United States uses ASTM, Canada uses CSA, and Singapore uses SS513 – all are very similar in basic requirements for commercial use footwear.

It is generally thought that good safety boots should include a solid but flexible sole and mid sole for shock absorption and slip resistance, toe protection in either steel toe caps or a composite toe cap equivalent, and durable outer layer materials for penetration resistance. Anti-static and conductivity qualities are also considered good characteristics for reliable safety footwear. The specific features of the shoes must match the workplace environment as solid PPE.

Can I wear my own safety shoes at work?

The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 states that if a risk has been identified and cannot be controlled in any other way, protective equipment must be provided by the employer, including footwear. Your own safety shoes will have to meet the set recognised standards for the job environment that you will be working in. There is no pair of safety boots that is suitable for every workplace.

Health and safety law only requires safety footwear to be used when there is a real risk of injury and harm for the employee. Often employers adopt policies requiring the wearing of safety footwear at all times.

Where can you use safety shoes?

Safety shoes can be worn in an assortment of workplaces and spaces. If you are working with heavy objects or around machinery then it is recommended to wear boots with toe cap protection. For outdoors work, insulation and anti-slip qualities will be favourable. No one shoe is suitable for every possible working condition. Some sports and recreational activities also require appropriate footwear to maintain a safe practice.

More information on safety footwear manufacturers >

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