What Are Work Boots?

Work boots are designed to be worn by people who work in places where their feet may be at risk of injury. Also known as safety boots, this footwear has a range of special features that are designed to protect feet against numerous risks (e.g. falling objects, extreme temperatures etc.).

 Who Should Wear Safety Boots? 

Many professions require individuals to wear safety shoes as part of their everyday workwear. Some examples of these occupations include:

• Firemen
• Electricians
• Construction workers
• Warehouse workers
• Plumbers

Does Your Employer Need to Provide Safety Boots?

In Ireland, employers must tell their employees about “any risks that require the wearing of protective equipment” such as footwear (Source: Citizen’s Information). Under the The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007, your employer must provide safety footwear if your feet will be exposed to hazards as part of your role. However, this is not necessary if your employer has implemented other means that have reduced the risk.

 What Occupational Hazards Does Safety Footwear Protect You Against?

Did you know that 7% of workplace accident wounds are foot injuries? There are two main types of workplace foot injury – slips/falls and trauma (e.g. punctures, crushing etc.). Foot injuries in the workplace can be caused by a range of hazards, including:

• Electric Shock
• Sharp objects
• Falling objects
• Explosive or electrostatic discharge
• Exposure to water
• Extreme temperatures
• Uneven surfaces
• Slippery surfaces
• Exposure to corrosive liquids

Before purchasing a pair of safety shoes, you will need to assess the health and safety risks in your workplace. To help with this, you employer should provide you with information about specific health and safety hazards in the workplace. You may also wish to check if there are any particular safety standards that apply to your profession.

What Are the Different Types of Foot Protection?

 EU Safety Standards

As Ireland is a member state of the European Union, workers here need to ensure that their boots are certified and stamped with a CE marking. EN ISO 20345 is the standard that applies across Europe for safety footwear used for general purposes. This includes slip resistance and features to protect against thermal and mechanical hazards. You may need additional criteria depending on your specific workplace requirements.

 How to Choose the Best Work Boots for You

When looking for a new pair of work boots, you will need to consider a number of factors: 

1. Is the material used suitable?
2. Does the boot offer the right kind of protection?
3. Does the boot feel comfortable to wear?
4. Does the boot provide sufficient support?
5. Does it fit correctly (i.e. not too wide or narrow)?
6. Does it offer enough flexibility for you to be able to move around with ease?

 Ensuring the Right Fit

Never assume your foot size before making a purchase. We advise you to get both feet measured by a professional first. Your feet swell throughout the day, so it’s best to try shoes around midday - when your feet are at their largest. You can test the fit of the shoes by walking around the store.

While walking, wiggle your toes to make sure there is enough room at the front of the shoes to allow for the natural movement. There should be around 1cm space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. If you are trying on shoes with steel toes, make sure that you cannot feel the toe caps against your toes.

What are Some of the Best Work Boot Brands?

Caterpiller 

Caterpillar work boots are comfortable, reliable and durable. These boots are made from robust materials that can withstand tough environments and protect the wearer against the elements.

Gri Sport 

Comfortable yet tough, Grisport safety boots are a top option for workwear. Footwear from this brand offer robust protection while also maintaining a lightweight and comfortable feel.

Read the infographic below to learn more about how to choose the best work boots for you.