Whether you are a construction worker by trade or you are managing a construction project, you should know that construction sites have many safety hazards. When people think of workplace safety gear, they often picture hard hats, gloves, and vests.
However, your feet are also vulnerable to injury. In this guide, you will learn how to protect your feet on a construction site.
Wear Safety-Toe Boots
The best way to prevent your feet from getting hurt is to wear safety-toe boots whenever you’re on a construction site. These boots are among the kinds of footwear considered to be PPE. OSHA requires you to wear them when you’re on construction site.
When shopping for boots, find ones that adequately protect the entire length and width of your toes from serious harm. You may also want to invest in metatarsal guards to protect the tops and bottoms of your feet.
Make Sure Your Footwear Is Slip and Puncture Resistant
Another safety risk on a construction site is slipping and falling. To avoid accidents, make sure the soles of your boots are slip resistant. With slip-resistant shoes, you can maintain your balance. In addition, you won’t want any nails or screws to puncture your boots, so purchase ones that are thick enough to be puncture resistant.
Purchase Boots Made From Non-Synthetic Materials
When you’re on your feet for hours, they tend to get sweaty, especially on a hot summer’s day. This introduces the risk of foot fungus or athlete’s foot, affecting your productivity and health.
Luckily, wearing boots made from canvas or leather will reduce this risk. You should wear white wool or cotton socks as an extra form of protection against itching and rashes. If your feet sweat profusely, you may want to bring an extra pair of socks with you for the afternoon.
Wear Boots That Fit Properly and Are Comfortable
Standing on your feet all day means you have a higher chance of getting a blister, stubbed toe, or twisted ankle. This is especially true if your boots don’t fit properly. Therefore, buying boots that fit isn’t only for comfortability; it also keeps you safe.
Learning how to protect your feet on a construction site might not seem that important on the surface, but it’s an essential safety measure once you realize its impact on your productivity. Now that you know a few tips for protecting your feet, make sure to follow them the next time you go to a construction site.
