Risks in the metallurgical industry: why the sole DOES matter
When we talk about the metallurgical industry (foundries, steel factories, sheet metal workshops, heavy production lines), we are talking about an environment where the risks to the feet and body can be severe: heavy falling objects, slippery surfaces, liquid splashes, sharp metal debris, oil, heat, temperature changes, constant movement, etc.
In this context, footwear is no longer an accessory but a key safety feature.
Main hazards in the metallurgical environment
• Impacts and crushing: large tools, metal sheets, parts that can fall or roll.
• Sharp or pointed objects: metal debris, nails, iron, splinters, scrap metal fragments, etc. that can pierce a standard sole.
• Slippery surfaces: oil, water, lubricant residues or industrial liquids combined with steel or ceramic floors make slips and falls a real danger.
• Hydrocarbons and aggressive substances: oils, fuels, solvents: these can degrade soles and compromise safety.
• Extreme temperatures and splashes: welding areas, furnaces, hot metal, where heat, sparks or splashes require extra protection.
What safe footwear should offer in industry: the importance of the sole and other elements
To protect workers in the metalworking industry, safety footwear must meet certain basic requirements and also be adapted to the aggressive environment.
Reference standard
The European safety standard for protective footwear is EN ISO 20345, which has recently been updated. Footwear that complies with this standard guarantees, as a minimum: impact-resistant toe cap, crush resistance, stability, slip-resistant sole and, where applicable, a sole that is resistant to punctures, hydrocarbons or heat.
Puncture-resistant sole
In a workshop or metallurgical plant, it is not uncommon to step on broken parts, iron scraps, metal fragments or nails. A sole reinforced with an anti-puncture plate (non-metallic or metallic) is essential: it prevents serious injuries to the sole of the foot.
Non-slip and hydrocarbon-resistant sole
Oils, lubricants, water or industrial products can make the floor a dangerous track. A sole with good grip, resistant to hydrocarbons and with a deep tread — which evacuates liquids — can make the difference between another misstep… or a serious accident.
Protective toe cap + ankle support and stability
When there is a risk of falling objects, crushing or contact with heavy parts, a protective toe cap is essential. But a toe cap alone is not enough: the boot must offer a good fit, ankle support and stability, especially if there are uneven surfaces, irregular surfaces or a risk of slipping.
Resistance to aggressive conditions: heat, sparks, chemicals, wear and tear
Many metalworking plants involve heat, hot metal, chemical hazards or abrasives. Footwear must be designed to withstand these challenges without compromising its integrity: resistant soles, durable materials, insulation where necessary, and robust construction.
Comfort, ergonomics and durability
A safe boot is useless if it causes extreme fatigue after an hour. Effective protective footwear must balance safety with comfort: comfortable insole, support, cushioning, breathability (where necessary), and durability.
Why the HR500 model may be a good choice for metallurgy
The HR500 model from Fal Seguridad combines many of the key features for demanding metallurgical environments:
• Durable sole with a non-slip design and resistant to hydrocarbons, ideal for floors with oil or debris.
• Textile anti-perforation insole, key to protecting against sharp metal debris, nails, fragments, etc.
• Non-metallic safety toe cap that offers stability and support, essential in areas with a risk of impact or falling heavy objects.
• Robust materials designed for resistance and intensive use, with an acceptable combination of durability and comfort.
In short: footwear that is not ‘just a work boot’, but real PPE, designed to protect against the risks faced by operators, welders, labourers, industrial maintenance workers, foundries, etc.
Good prevention practices for workers in metallurgy
But having the right boots is not enough. Here are some key recommendations when working in industry:
• Assess the risks of the environment: floors, waste, hydrocarbons, heat, plant structure. Not all jobs have the same risks.
• Regular inspection of footwear: if the sole is worn, the puncture-resistant midsole has been compromised or the toe cap has been impacted, it should be replaced. Protection decreases with use.
• Use compatible with other PPE: gloves, helmet, eye protection, fire-resistant clothing (if applicable), depending on the job. Footwear does not replace other risks.
• Hygiene and maintenance: clean off oil, metal and chemical residues; check the sole, seams and general condition. Well-maintained footwear provides better protection and lasts longer.
• Training and information: workers must understand the risks and why they wear this footwear. It is not enough to just give them boots: you have to raise awareness.
There are no shortcuts when it comes to real safety
In the metalworking industry, every step can be a risk. Falls, slips, punctures, impacts, heat, chemicals… Safety footwear is not an add-on, it is the first line of defence. And the sole, far from being an aesthetic detail, is a vital part of the design.
That’s why models like the HR500 are not just ‘more boots’: they are PPE designed to protect, comply with regulations and allow workers to work with peace of mind, day after day, in harsh environments.
At Fal Seguridad, we are committed to providing footwear that complies with regulations, has a specially designed sole and is made of resistant materials, giving workers a real tool to stay safe at the end of their shift.