According to Workplace Injury Statistics, 15% of injuries at work in the UK occur to the toes, foot or ankle. Choosing safety shoes is not just about protecting yourself, but also about how they look and how comfortable they are for the people who will be wearing them. You need to make sure your shoes meet the safety standards for your business, as well as government standards.
In Europe, there are three standards of safety shoes:
- EN ISO 345: 200 joule resistant toe cap
- EN ISO 346: 100 joule resistant toe cap
- EN ISO 347: no toe caps
The type you choose depends on your specific needs and if you’re a style that’s lightweight and versatile, while also offering a high level of protection, safety trainers are a great option.
Here’s what you need to know about finding the best safety trainers to keep you safe.
Features Of Safety Trainers
There are three different styles of safety footwear – safety boots, which offer full protection, including across the ankle; safety shoes, which have a protective cap but are less heavy and generally shorter than boots; and safety trainers, which are designed for both protection and comfort.
Safety trainers are more casual and are generally ideal for tradies or delivery drivers – offering a high level of protection, but at the same time remaining comfortable. Features of a quality safety trainer include:
- Steel or composite toe cap
- Penetration resistance in the midsole and outsole
- Slip-resistant soles to prevent slips and injury
- Cushioning on the heel
- Padding on the collar for better ankle support
- Impact protection with compression lining
How To Choose Quality Safety Trainers
A few things to keep in mind when you buy safety trainers include:
- Safety: The most crucial aspect is the level of safety. After all, that’s why you’re buying the shoes. Consider features such as a water repellent leather upper, dual density PU outsole, padding on the tongue and collar, internal steel toecap and stainless steel midsole. And always check the rating to ensure it meets safety standards as mentioned above.
- Durability: Not only do you want to make sure the safety features are of highest quality, but you need to ensure the shoes are going to last well into the future. Quality safety trainers are an investment, so you don’t want them getting holes or a snapped sole on your first day.
- The right fit: Do your measurements before you buy to ensure the trainers you’re getting are the right fit. That means measuring your foot from big toe to heel, and across the largest part of your foot as well. Make sure the shoes have plenty of toe space and good arch and heel support. And don’t get them too tight or you’ll end up with blisters.
- Resistance: You want your safety trainers to be resistant of all hazards in your workplace. Not only keeping your feet protected from items dropping on them, but also protected from heat, chemicals and oil. And you want to make sure the soles have plenty of grip and anti-slip properties.
- Price: If you want quality shoes that are going to last you well into the future, you’ll pay more than a few dollars. But it’ll be worth it. There are plenty of affordable options so shop around and make sure you’re purchasing from a trusted company.
Keeping your feet safe is crucial in many job roles, and by choosing the right kind of safety trainers, you’ll be protected and comfortable.
