Did you know that many workplace injuries, such as strains, sprains, slips, and falls, are often caused by inappropriate footwear?
When choosing the proper protective gear for on-the-job safety, we often think about how to protect the eyes, head, and hands. But unfortunately, we don’t pay nearly as much attention to protecting our backs, feet, ankles, and legs.
Whether you are a tradesperson, a healthcare worker, an emergency responder, or work in any physically demanding profession, wearing high-quality boots can go a long way toward protecting your overall health and preventing workplace injury.
Common Preventable Injuries Related to Improper Footwear
If your job is demanding and you aren’t wearing the proper footwear, you are at risk of developing a wide range of musculoskeletal problems, including the following:
- Plantar fasciitis (also known as “policeman’s heel”)
- Ankle pain
- Hip issues
- Knee pain
- Lower back strains
- Bone Fractures
The best boots for preventing workplace injury are designed to offer comfort and full body support.
You can reduce discomfort and lower your risk of injury by choosing a work boot that fits correctly, offers full body support, and is designed for your specific industry.
One brand leading the charge in designing boots with workplace safety in mind is Steel Blue, which has been crafting comfortable, work-appropriate footwear since 1995.
Workplace Boots Should Be Shock Absorbent
With each step we take, the tendons, ligaments, and muscles in our feet absorb significant shock. Although basic cushioned insoles can somewhat reduce shock, shock-absorbent boots are your best choice for shock protection.
Workplace Boots Should Be Supportive and Flexible
From mining and construction to agriculture and manufacturing, so many industries are physically demanding and require workers to spend much of their time on their feet.
The best boots for preventing workplace injury in these demanding industries should be designed to move with your body and not restrict your movement.
Whether you’re stepping up, down, over or around, climbing, bending, or crouching down, you need a boot that will protect your foot from repetitive stress injuries often associated with physically demanding jobs.
Other Ways to Reduce Stress, Strain, and Injury in the Workplace
It takes more than the best boots and the proper protective gear to protect you from the stress and strain of a physically demanding job.
Here are some other ways to stay safe:
- Take breaks regularly throughout your shift.
- Whenever it feels like your feet may be slipping inside your boot, re-lace and re-tie them.
- Make sure that your work boots fit correctly.
- Never take risks that ignore proper safety protocols.
- Regularly check your footwear throughout your shift.
- Always remember to stretch before, after, and throughout your shift.