Page 26 - OHS, September 2024

PPE: FOOT PROTECTION
Understanding Safety Shoes
What types are available? What are their differences?
BY BEN JULIAN
Safety shoes that meet ASTM F2413 requirements are an essential part of personal protective equipment (PPE) in various industries. They are designed to protect the feet from a wide range of hazards, including falling objects, sharp items, electrical risks and slippery surfaces. Let’s explore the different types of safety shoes available and highlight their unique features and uses, along with standards they should meet.
Steel Toe Shoes
Steel toe shoes are among the most common types of safety foot- wear. They have a reinforced steel toe cap that protects the toes from impact and compression injuries. Key Features:
■ Toe protection. The steel toe cap can withstand significant impact and compression forces.
■ Durability. Steel is durable with long-lasting protection.
■ Weight. Steel toe shoes are generally heavier than other types of safety shoes.
■ Applications. Steel toe shoes are ideal for construction sites, manufacturing plants and any environment where there is a risk of heavy objects falling on the feet. Many assume that steel toe shoes cannot be used around electrical hazards. However, as long as the steel toe cap is insulated, the steel toe will not conduct electricity.
Composite Toe Shoes
Composite toe shoes provide similar protection to steel toe shoes but use non-metal materials like Kevlar, carbon fiber or plastic. Key Features:
■ Lightweight. Composite materials are lighter than steel, making the shoes more comfortable for all-day wear on the job.
■ Non-conductive. They do not conduct electricity, making them suitable for electrical environments.
■ Temperature resistance. Composite toe shoes do not get as cold or hot as steel toe shoes in extreme temperatures, making for a better option for applications such as foundry work or cold storage.
■ Applications. These shoes are suitable for environments where metal detectors are used, and for electrical work where non- conductive footwear is required.
Alloy Toe Shoes
Alloy toe shoes use lighter metals such as aluminum or titanium to provide toe protection. Key Features:
■ Lightweight. Alloys are lighter than steel but still offer strong protection.
■ Slim profile. Alloy toe caps are often thinner, allowing for a more comfortable fit.
■ Durability. They offer high strength and durability.
■ Applications. Alloy toe shoes are preferred in industries re- quiring lightweight footwear with robust protection, such as logis- tics and warehousing.
Metatarsal Guard Shoes
These shoes offer additional protection to the upper part (top) of
the foot, not just the toes. Key Features:
■ Extended protection. They protect the metatarsal bones
from impact and compression.
Variety of materials. Guards can be made from materials like aluminum, steel, or composites.
■ Comfort. Modern designs ensure the metatarsal guards do not hinder movement or comfort.
■ Applications. Metatarsal guard shoes are used in industries with a high risk of foot injuries, such as mining, heavy manufac- turing, and foundries.
Electrical Hazard (EH) Shoes
EH shoes are designed to protect wearers from electrical hazards. Key Features:
■ Non-conductive soles. They are made with insulating mate- rials to prevent electric shocks.
■ ASTM standards. They meet or exceed ASTM standards for electrical hazard protection.
■ Versatility. Available in various styles, including boots and low-cut shoes.
■ Applications. These shoes are essential for electricians, maintenance workers, and others who work in environments with electrical hazards.
Puncture-Resistant Shoes
These shoes are designed to prevent sharp objects from penetrat- ing the sole. Key Features:
■ Steel or composite plates. They have puncture-resistant plates embedded in the soles.
■ Flexibility. Despite the protective plates, they are designed to be flexible and comfortable.
■ Variety of styles. Available in both boots and low-cut shoe designs.
■ Applications. Puncture-resistant shoes are crucial for con- struction workers, landscapers, and anyone working in environ- ments with sharp objects on the ground.
Slip-Resistant Shoes
Slip-resistant shoes are designed to provide superior traction on slippery surfaces. Key Features:
■ Specialized soles. They have outsoles made from rubber or other materials that provide excellent grip.
■ Tread patterns. Unique tread patterns enhance traction on wet and oily surfaces.
■ Comfort and support. They often come with additional cushioning and arch support for long shifts.
■ Applications. These shoes are ideal for the food service in- dustry, hospitals, and any workplace with slippery floors.
Waterproof and Insulated Shoes
Waterproof and insulated shoes are designed to protect the feet from wet and cold conditions. Key Features:
24 Occupational Health & Safety | SEPTEMBER 2024
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