Workers wear protective gear in environments where there’s a high risk of injuries. Industries such as construction, mining, manufacturing, and forestry enforce the use of steel toe boots, for instance, to shield employees from potential hazards.
In oil and gas extraction sites, the threats of heavy equipment and chemical exposure need workers to protect their feet. Warehouses, with their constant movement of goods and forklift operations, also mandate such precautions. Similarly, shipyards, welding operations, chemical plants, and metalworking facilities recognise the value of steel toe boots in safeguarding against occupational injuries.
Steel toe boots offer impact protection against falling objects, tools, or heavy machinery by protecting the toes. The soles are also constructed to resist punctures, which can be beneficial in environments where sharp objects might be underfoot, such as construction sites with nails or glass shards.
What to look for in steel toe boots
1. Composite toe cap
This is a must-have for ensuring the best protection against impacts. For those working around heavy machinery such as in shipyards and forests where heavy lifting is necessary, a higher level of foot protection is important.
2. Slip-resistant and anti-heat soles
In workplaces with slippery surfaces due to oil, water, or chemical spills, non-slip soles provide the traction needed to prevent falls and accidents. It should also withstand the heat up to 300 degrees to keep the sole from melting.
3. Kevlar plate
Steel toe boots can offer better puncture resistance when made with a layer of Kevlar used in the sole. Kevlar is a strong and lightweight aramid fibre known for its high tensile strength and durability. It protects the wearer’s feet from sharp objects, such as nails, shards of glass, or metal fragments, that might otherwise penetrate the sole and cause injury.
4. Water-repellent technology
Moisture should stay out, even in wet conditions. For steel toe boots made with high-grade…
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