APPLICATION

AS/NZS 2210.1 recommends that safety footwear should be worn to reduce foot injuries caused by contact with moving or falling objects, sharp materials that may penetrate through the sole or uppers, friction, contact with chemicals, heat, molten metals, slipping and electrical hazards.

RISK ASSESSMENT

A risk assessment identifying all possible foot hazards is essential before implementing a footwear protection programme. It is important to note that safety footwear can only provide a limited degree of protection against hazards in the workplace.

Typical hazards may include:

  • Slipping due to surface type & condition and wet or dry state (including type of liquid)
  • Dropped or falling objects causing crushing or cutting injuries
  • Moving plant & equipment causing crushing injuries
  • Sharp objects with the potential to puncture or penetrate
  • Exposure to extremes of temperature including welding and hot metal operations
  • Chemical spills and other hazardous or toxic substances
  • Unsafe electrical equipment
  • Static electricity discharge can cause harm to workers and equipment
  • Uneven terrain
  • High levels of physical activity and duration of shifts causing foot soreness/discomfort

footwear selection elements

SOLE
Rubber Heat resistant to 300 degrees Celcius
TPUHeat resistant to 130 – 140 degrees Celcius
PUHeat resistant to 130 – 140 degrees Celcius
PVCWaterproof, oil/fat/acid resistant
TOE CAPS
Steel200 Joules/1500 Newtons
Composite200 Joules/1500 Newtons
ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE
Anti-StaticAllows static electricity to earth
ConductiveAllows mains & static electricity to earth
InsulatingProtects against high voltage
OTHER
Metatarsal GuardProtects the metatarsal bones of the foot
Steel MidsolePenetration resistant layer imbedded into the sole

Useful references

AS/NZS 2210.1:2010  Safety, protective and occupational footwear – Guide to selection, care and use.

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