How to choose the right Safety Footwear according to the Sector
Selecting the right safety footwear is a technical decision that must be based on a thorough analysis of the risks of the specific work environment.
It is not only a matter of complying with regulations, but also of guaranteeing comprehensive protection that allows workers to perform their tasks efficiently and comfortably.
Sector-specific risk assessment
Each industry has inherent risks that determine the minimum safety requirements for footwear. In sectors such as construction, workers are exposed to heavy objects, uneven floors, moving machinery and slippery surfaces, requiring footwear with reinforced toecaps and slip-resistant soles. In the chemical sector, on the other hand, exposure to corrosive and toxic substances requires materials with high chemical resistance and a design that minimises the absorption of hazardous liquids.
To carry out this risk assessment, methodologies such as Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) can be followed, which help to identify and categorise risks according to their probability of occurrence and severity.
Types of protection in safety footwear
Safety footwear can incorporate different types of protection depending on materials, design and reinforcements. Some of the most important types are highlighted here:
Safety Toe Cap: Made of metal or composite materials (such as carbon fibre) which makes it lighter. The toe cap protects against impact and crushing. In construction and manufacturing sectors, it is vital to avoid fractures and foot damage.
Anti-Puncture Sole: Made of steel or advanced synthetic materials, this sole protects against sharp objects on the ground. It is crucial on construction sites, mining and other sectors where workers may step on nails, broken glass or sharp objects.
Chemical resistance: This type of footwear is made of chemical-resistant materials, such as nitrile rubber or polyurethane. It is essential in chemical industries and laboratories, where there is a risk of spills of corrosive substances.
Protection against electric shock: Dielectric or antistatic footwear prevents the build-up of static charges and protects against possible discharges. This type of footwear is crucial in the electronics industry and in places with explosive atmospheres.
Comfort and ergonomic considerations
Comfort is a critical factor in the choice of safety footwear, as it directly impacts worker productivity. Ergonomic footwear reduces fatigue and the risk of long-term injury, especially over long hours.
Cushioning: Ergonomics in footwear design should take into account cushioning in the heel and sole to help absorb shock and reduce fatigue in high impact activities.
Breathability and moisture management: For hot environments or where workers perform intense physical activities, breathability is essential. Materials such as Gore-Tex allow for adequate ventilation, keeping feet cool and dry.
Footwear weight: Heavy safety footwear can increase muscle fatigue, especially for workers who are constantly on the move. Composite materials offer a lightweight alternative to traditional steel toecaps, maintaining the same strength without the extra weight.
Regulatory compliance and certifications
Safety certifications ensure that footwear meets certain minimum standards of protection. In Europe, safety footwear must comply with EN ISO 20345 and EN ISO 20347, which regulate aspects such as impact resistance, compression and protection against specific hazards.
Each type of footwear has specific classifications and labels. For example:
SB: Basic protection, with a safety toe cap that resists impacts of up to 200 J.
S1-S5: Classifications indicating additional levels of protection, from hydrocarbon resistance (S1) to anti-puncture soles and water resistance (S5).
Knowing these standards allows you to select the right footwear for each application, ensuring that personal protective equipment (PPE) is not only functional, but also legal and safe.
Durable and wear-resistant materials
Safety footwear materials must be resistant to wear and adapt to the conditions of the environment. For industrial sectors, leather and microfibre are popular materials for their resistance, while polyurethane and nitrile offer high durability in soles. In environments with high humidity or exposure to water, the use of waterproof membranes, such as Gore-Tex, may be essential to avoid problems such as fungal growth in footwear and ensure worker comfort. In sectors involving extreme conditions (very high or low temperatures), materials must resist expansion and contraction, as well as offering adequate thermal insulation. The selection of high quality materials ensures that the footwear can withstand intensive use without losing its protective properties.
Sector-specific customisation and adaptability of footwear
Each sector may have specific requirements that demand adaptations in the design of safety footwear. In the food industry, for example, footwear must be easy to clean, resistant to moisture and have slip-resistant soles to prevent accidents on wet floors. In mining, high-top boots that protect not only the foot, but also the ankle and leg are required.
Tailoring safety footwear to the particular conditions of each industry ensures that workers are not only protected, but can carry out their activities comfortably and efficiently.
Choosing the right safety footwear for the industry is a decision that requires a thorough analysis of the conditions of the working environment and the specific risks. Consideration of protection types, ergonomics, materials and certifications allows for the selection of footwear that not only meets safety standards, but also enhances the worker’s experience and efficiency. Safety and comfort should not be compromised, and investing in the right footwear translates into benefits for the employee and the company.