What Is Foot Protection?

Foot protection – sounds simple, right? But there is much more behind this term than just a simple pair of shoes. Especially in the manufacturing and industrial sector, where hazards are everywhere, the right foot protection is essential. For this reason, we dedicate this article to the question of what foot protection involves, why it is so important and which standards and laws apply in Germany.

More Than Just a Pair of Shoes: Why Is Foot Protection So Important?

Imagine you work in a warehouse where heavy objects are regularly moved. One inattentive moment and a heavy item falls on your foot. Without the right protection, such an accident could result in serious injuries. Safety shoes are therefore not an option, but a necessity. They protect not only against falling objects, but also against many other hazards lurking in the working environment. We have summarised these for you here:

Protection Against Mechanical Hazards

In many work areas, mechanical hazards are among the greatest sources of danger. Safety shoes with toe caps – we have already covered their importance and variants in another article – provide the necessary protection. These caps are often made of steel or plastic and are designed to absorb the pressure and impact of heavy objects, thereby preventing injuries.

Protection Against Chemical and Biological Hazards

Employees in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, as well as in the medical sector, are often exposed to chemical and biological hazards. Special safety shoes with a durable outer layer and slip-resistant soles protect against hazardous substances and can prevent slip-related accidents.

Protection Against Electrical Hazards

In electrical engineering and related fields, electrical hazards are everywhere. Safety shoes with antistatic or insulating properties protect against electric shocks and electrostatic discharge, which can be dangerous both for the person wearing them  and for sensitive electronic equipment.

Protection Against Extreme Temperatures

In metalworking and similar industries, extreme temperatures can pose a threat. Safety shoes with heat-resistant soles and fire-resistant materials protect feet from burns and other heat-related injuries. Naturally, the same also applies in reverse for sectors where work is carried out at extremely low temperatures. If you would like to learn more, take a look at this article.

Standards and Legal Requirements

In Germany, foot protection in the workplace is regulated by law. The most important standards and regulations are the Ordinance on Safety and Health Protection in the Use of Personal Protective Equipment at Work (PSA-BV) and DIN EN ISO 20345, which sets specific requirements for safety shoes.

The PPE Regulation

This regulation stipulates that employers are required to provide their employees with the necessary personal protective equipment. This also includes safety shoes where the risk assessment indicates that they are needed. The regulation specifies that companies must provide suitable protective equipment, ensure that it is used and instruct employees on its correct application.

DIN EN ISO 20345

This standard specifies the basic and additional (optional) requirements for safety shoes for commercial use. Safety shoes certified according to this standard must be fitted with at least a toe cap that provides protection against an impact energy of 200 joules. The standard distinguishes between different protection classes, such as S1, S2 and S3, which cover different protective properties and areas of use:

• S1: Basic protection, including antistatic properties and energy absorption in the heel area.
• S2: Additional protection against water penetration and absorption.
• S3: In addition to the properties of S2, these shoes offer a puncture-resistant sole and treaded outsole for better grip.

Now that we know the requirements and necessities, you are probably wondering which criteria you should use to select the right shoes. Read on to find out more.

What Should Companies Consider?

When purchasing safety shoes, companies should pay particular attention to these 3 factors:

1. Fit and comfort: Even the best safety shoe is of no use if it does not fit properly or is uncomfortable. A good fit and wearing comfort are crucial to ensuring employee acceptance and avoiding long-term health issues.
2. Materials and workmanship: High-quality materials and solid workmanship are crucial to the durability and effectiveness of safety shoes. At Shoes For Crews, we take care to manufacture our shoes using excellent materials and obtain all certifications that are relevant or best suited to the respective industry.
3. Area of use: Different safety shoes are required depending on the working environment and potential hazards. A precise analysis of working conditions helps to select the right models that meet the specific requirements. If you are unsure, our dedicated specialist staff will be happy to help.

Safety From Head to Toe

As we have seen, foot protection is an essential part of occupational safety and should not be neglected by any company. The right safety shoes protect employees from numerous hazards and therefore contribute to a safe and productive working environment. Companies should therefore ensure that they comply with applicable standards and regulations and invest in high-quality, suitable safety shoes.

Because at the end of the day: safety starts from the ground up – with the right shoes!