In a world where workplace safety take often gets overlooked is Safety Shoes or Boots. These specialized protective footwears offer more than just comfort – they provide the necessary protection for your feet against a range of hazards, ensuring you remain safe and confident on the job. These shoes are equipped with reinforced toe caps made of steel or composite materials that shield the feet from heavy objects, equipment, or materials that may accidentally fall or be dropped, significantly reducing the risk of injuries such as cs precedence, the significance of protective gear cannot be overlooked. One crucial piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) thatrushed toes or foot fractures.
In this article, we'll dive into the reasons as to why safety shoes are essentials, exploring the different types, benefits, and brands in Singapore.
Why Do You Need A Safety Shoes Or Boots?
Protection Against Workplace Hazards: Safety shoes or boots are designed to protect the feet from a variety of workplace hazards. They feature reinforced toe caps made of steel or composite materials, providing excellent protection against impacts and compressions. These toe caps shield the toes from falling objects, heavy equipment, or materials that could cause injuries such as fractures or crush injuries. Additionally, safety footwear often includes puncture-resistant soles to prevent sharp objects from penetrating the bottom of the shoe, protecting against injuries from stepping on nails, metal shards, or other hazardous items.
Enhanced Traction:
Many workplaces involve slippery or uneven surfaces. Accidents due to slippery or uneven floors are common in many workplaces, and safety shoes help mitigate these risks, enhancing stability and preventing potential injuries.
Compliance with Workplace Safety Regulations:
Occupational health and safety regulations often mandate the use of appropriate safety footwear in specific work environments to ensure the protection of workers. Employers are required to adhere to these regulations, and providing safety shoes that comply with industry standards is a fundamental aspect of maintaining a safe workplace. Compliance with these regulations not only ensures the well-being of employees but also helps employers avoid legal and financial repercussions associated with non-compliance.
Types of Safety Shoes:
Safety shoes come in various types, each designed to address specific workplace hazards and provide the necessary protection for different job environments. Here are the main types of safety shoes based on their design and intended use:
Steel Toe Shoes
Steel-toe safety shoes have a protective cap made of steel or other materials to protect the toes from impact and compression injuries. They are suitable for environments where there is a risk of heavy objects falling or rolling onto the feet.
Composite Toe Shoes
Composite-toe safety shoes feature a protective toe cap made of non-metal materials such as composite materials (e.g., fiberglass, Kevlar, carbon fiber). They provide similar protection to steel-toe shoes but are non-metallic and lighter in weight, making them ideal for situations where metal detectors are used.
Electrical Hazard Shoes
Electric hazard safety shoes are designed to provide protection against electrical shocks by incorporating insulating materials. They are suitable for environments where there is a risk of contact with live electrical circuits or conductors.
Slip-Resistant Shoes
Slip-resistant safety shoes have specially designed outsoles to provide improved traction on slippery surfaces. They are ideal for environments where the risk of slips and falls is high, such as kitchens, restaurants, or facilities with wet or oily floors.
Tips to Care for your Safety Shoes / Boots
Wash the insole of your Safety Shoes / Boots regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria
Dry and remove excess dirt from your Safety Shoes / Boots with an old toothbrush regularly to maintain fluid evacuation and slip resistance properties.
Remove any marks using a damp cloth and soap if necessary and polish any grain or pigmented leathers using a commercially available shoe care product.
Store shoes in dry aired area after each use.
Do not soak the shoes in water or use a washing machine, dry clean or bleach.
SAFETY FOOTWEAR EUROPEAN STANDARDS (EN ISO 20345)
CATEGORY | EN ISO 20345 REQUIREMENTS |
SB | Basic requirements for shoes: toecap resistant to an impact of 200 Joules and crushing of 15kN |
S1 | Basic requirements + - Closed heel area - Antistatic properties - Heel energy absorption - Resistance to fuel oil |
S1P | S1 + - Anti-puncture resistance (P) |
S2 | S1 + - Water penetration and absorption |
S3 | S2 + - Anti-puncture resistance - Cleated outsole |
Top Safety Shoes in Singapore:
King’s by Honeywell Comfort Range Series: Renowned for its durability and comfort, the Defender Series offers a wide range of safety features suitable for various industries.
Honeywell Rookie Series: Engineered for long hours, these shoes prioritize comfort without compromising safety, making them a favorite among professionals.
OTTER Series: With a focus on slip-resistance, this series is a go-to choice for those working in environments prone to wet or oily surfaces.
Conclusion:
Investing in safety shoes or boots isn't just about complying with regulations – it's about prioritizing your well-being and safety. From preventing injuries to enhancing traction and comfort, safety footwear plays a vital role in creating a safer work environment. With a variety of options available in Singapore, finding the perfect pair to suit your needs has never been easier. Keep your feet protected and take confident strides towards a safer, more secure work experience.
Safety Shoes In Singapore: Frequently Asked Questions
Are composite or steel toes safety shoes better?
Steel toe shoes offer more protection than composite shoes since they can withstand higher impact. They are also less expensive. However, steel toe shoes are heavier and do not breathe as well as composite toe shoes. This makes then less comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Are safety toes boots worth it?
A wide profile toecap provides extra comfort for your forefoot and toes, allowing more room for movement. It also allows your toes to splay easily and offers a sense of balance and greater stability which can easily withstand long hours of work.
How to tell when your safety shoes are worn out?
Wear-off indicators on the sole provide an early warning on sole wear and potential loss of grip.
Is there a warranty claim for the safety shoes?
Ansac Technology offers a warranty clam that is the longest among other brands at six months.