Safety footwear often overlooked

(MS) - Most do-it-yourselfers know that safety is paramount when starting projects in and around the house. Still, many do not take the proper precautions with safety gear. One piece of equipment that may go overlooked is safety footwear.

According to recent statistics, 100,000 foot-related injuries occur each year in the U.S. during hazardous working conditions. During construction and repair projects, the risk for injury to the feet can be high. Just think about the number of things that can fall on exposed feet, cutting instruments in use, and the potential for puncture wounds from sharp nails, splintered wood or steel hardware. Plus, in general, ankle and arch support is needed when doing work.

Most safety footwear is designed to provide protection against impact, compression and puncture. Other considerations include nonslip soles, which are a must when climbing or scaling ladders to prevent falls. Work boots with steel toes can offer a measure of protection against items which may fall on the feet, or if you inadvertently kick a hard object. Some boots are even manufactured with steel soles so that the underside of feet are protected from impalement on nails or screws sticking up from the floor.

Today's safety footwear is not the big, heavy boots of the past. Technology has created boots and even shoes made from lightweight materials that are strong - offering protection - but are also comfortable on the feet.

To enhance the comfort of safety footwear, consider placing gel or padded sole inserts into the boots, primarily if you spend long hours on your feet.

Consider these types of footwear and what they protect against. • Puncture resistant: good protection against nails, screws and other fasteners • Waterproof/insulated: will keep feet warm and dry in wet/cold conditions • Chemical resistant: provides protection against some hazardous chemicals • Heat guard: footwear that protects the feet from hot surfaces

There is also footwear that can dissipate static where static would be hazardous to operations, and boots that provide protection against electrical hazards.

Fit and Care

Safety footwear is only effective if the shoes are maintained and fit well. Consider these tips from Canada's National Occupational Health & Safety Resource: • Walk in new footwear to ensure it is comfortable. • Boots should have ample toe room. Make allowances for extra socks or special arch supports when buying boots. • Boots should fit snugly around the heel and ankle when laced. Lace up boots fully. High-cut boots provide support against ankle injury. • Use a protective coating to make footwear water-resistant. • Inspect footwear regularly for damage. Repair or replace worn or defective footwear. • Electric shock resistance of footwear is greatly reduced by wet conditions and with wear.