Accidents are very common at any workplace and if you are working at a construction site, then the risks of getting an injury increases. Most of the work environment has strict safety regulations, but for the complete safety of workers, safety wear is a must-have.
At the construction site, transportation and lifting of heavy objects is a very common scenario. Due to this, there is a constant fear of heavy objects falling on your feet. Another common reason for injuries is sharp nails and objects littered at the construction site. Thus, a basic protective layer on your feet is very important to ensure safety.
Safety footwear act as a barrier of protection and takes care of the feet. Metatarsal shoes, steel toe capped shoes and more can provide a comprehensive level of protection against any kind of external harmful objects that may injure your feet.
Let’s discuss the various types of safety shoes that you can use in the construction site.
Metatarsal Shoes
These shoes are the best option for construction sites where people work with heavy objects. The metatarsal area (the area between toes and ankle) of the foot is very sensitive because there is hardly any fat over the bones in that area and the skin is also very thin. Due to this reason, this area of the feet is prone to severe injuries. To protect your feet from unforeseen injuries, metatarsal shoes are the best option. These shoes include an extra layer of protection for maximum safety.
Slip-Resistant Footwear
At any construction site, oil and the greasy surface is a common thing. For workers in construction sites, it is imperative that they must have a firm grip on the ground. This is why slip-resistant shoes are very important. These shoes are manufactured with rubber soles that prevent slip and trips.
Thinsulate Boots
Workers have to work in every condition, no matter how cold or hot it is. They work irrespective of the extremely cold or damp weather. In this kind of weather, feet require extra care and safety. For this, Thinsulate boots come reinforced with an insulation material that keeps your feet warm and is extremely lightweight. So, you can choose these shoes in extremely cold weather.
Metal Instep Shoes
These shoes are also designed like metatarsal shoes and protect the instep of the foot from fall or crushing injuries. These shoes are reinforced with metal guards and toe caps, and they provide complete protection to the feet. These shoes are one of the best options for construction site workers.
Steel Toe Capped Shoes
These shoes usually come equipped with toe caps to safeguard from sharp, piercing objects, and heavy loads. Steel toe-capped shoes are popular for their solid protection. These shoes are tough and best for safety at the construction site.
As per your work environment, you can choose work shoes that suit you the best. These above-mentioned shoes are ideal for construction site workers for complete safety. Now, as you are aware of the types of safety shoes, let’s also understand a few things that you can consider before buying the best safety shoes.
Tips to Consider Before Buying the Next Pair of Safety Shoes
- Safety – This should be the top consideration while selecting the correct pair of protective footwear. These days, there are several options available online, but choose a pair that will protect your feet from hazards. Consider metatarsal guards, sole material, and overall construction materials before buying.
- Proper Fit – Fitting is one of the most important considerations while buying safety shoes. Always make sure that your shoes fit well. While buying safety shoes, take time to ensure that you are selecting the proper size.
- Comfort – Comfort is a must factor while buying shoes, and become even more important when we talk about safety shoes. Make sure that it has appropriate space in the toe box, no pinching or cramping at the ball of the foot or toe area, and have adequate support in the arch and heel. Ensure that padding and material used is appropriate for your work environment.
These are some important factors to look for before buying safety shoes. It is important to know that no footwear can protect against all injuries. Hazards need to be controlled by other different means. By selecting correct shoes for your work environment and personal needs, you will have the best personal protection for preventing injuries.
