Did you know one out of 10 workplace accidents injure feet in one way or another? This is why wearing protective shoes is compulsory in many Canadian workplace environments. To save your feet from possible risks, it is important to select the right safety footwear.
Possible Risks for Your Feet
Protective shoes are an integral element of the PPE providing safety and protection against many foot injuries including cuts, burns and shocks. Some of the major risks involve:
· Toe crushing due to falling/rolling objects
· Puncture or severe cuts due to pointed objects
· Burns caused by melted metal or other chemicals
· Slick or slippery floors
· Chilblains caused by cold flooring
The Basic Criterion
Apparently, a protective shoe is a safety gear that should at least comply with one of the five standards established by the CSA. You can easily determine what standard a pair of work boots meets by reviewing alphabetical code printed inside the shoes. The five codes include:
- 1,2,0
- P,0
- M,0
- E,S,C
- X,0
The first code in the list illustrates whether the pair lands with a steel cap which basically is a cover that protects toes against possible injuries. 1 indicates that the shoe can combat 125 joules impact, 2 signifies that it can combat 90 joules impact, while 0 indicates ‘not anything’.
The ‘P’ in the second code indicates that the safety shoes has soles that provide protection against punctures, while 0 means it does not provide safety against punctures.
The ‘M’ in the third code signifies shoes with metatarsus protector, while 0 means it doesn’t include any protector.
The ‘E’ in the fourth code represents resistance against electrical shocks, S signifies dispersion of static electricity, while C means electricity conduction capacity.
The X in the last code reflects protection against chain saws.
There are many Canadian companies that are investing in CSA-certified work boots for their workers. Failure to comply with these standards may result in warnings, penalties and fines.
You need safety shoes if…
Your work involves chemicals or other harmful substances – If your nature of work needs you to handle chemicals or work with extremely hot substances that can cause burns, it’s important that you wear safety boots for your protection.
You work on slippery surfaces – You need safety boots if you work on slippery or uneven surfaces.
You work as a residential contractor – If you’re into contracting business, it’s important to use protective shoes as it can save you from numerous possible foot injuries. Original clean boot covers in Canada provide special protection against floor stains and debris that can spoil your image in front of your clients. So make sure to use your boots with covers while providing residential contracting services to your clients as it will increase the life of your work boots and can also earn you a customer for life.
In conclusion, OSHA footwear regulations are great for Canadian workers as they provide protection against various workplace injuries and one should definitely follow them to avoid fines and sanctions!