Because of the notorious nature of construction sites, all workers are meant to wear safety boots, but some will choose not to wear them for one reason or another, mainly in some places with poor safety culture.
Under the law, the employer has to provide PPE, including safety boots, for everyone in his company.
Construction sites are notorious for accidents, and one of the causes of accidents on site are slips and trip hazards; these hazards are present from the debris, slippery substances on the floor, etc.
Safety in construction sites should always be a priority because of the myriad of hazards that can cause harm to people, and because of these, PPE is deployed as a control measure.
However, there are many reasons why construction workers wear safety boots, so let’s delve into this article now.Â
Why do construction workers wear safety boots?
1. Legal requirement.
It is part of the legal requirement for workers to wear safety boots on-site. Employers have a Duty to ensure all workers on site wear safety boots. They are responsible for providing safety boots for workers and ensuring that they use them for their work. Any lapses on the employers’ side to fulfill this requirement will require them to pay a fine for such breach of Health and Safety law.
2. To protect the toe against impact and compression hazards.
Safety boots are designed to protect workers where they are exposed to impact and compression hazards. While Handling heavy tools and equipment, there could be a risk of them falling off or being dropped on the worker’s feet, which can lead to severe foot injuries like fractures and crushed bones. Safety boot comes with a reinforced toe cap that shields against such dangers and reduces the risks of Injuries to the toe.
3. To protect the feet from unfavorable external conditions.
There are so many unfavorable external conditions, for example, heat from the Sun or cold from the environment. Safety boots protect workers from unfavorable weather conditions through their insulation properties. They keep the feet warm in cold conditions and prevent excessive heat absorption in hot environments.
4. Protect the feet against chemicals and substances.
Workplaces are dangerous places. Chemicals, not just chemicals but those that are hazardous, are used in workplaces. These chemicals can be corrosive and harmful; if there is no protection for the body, they can result in chemical burns, skin irritation, and some long-term issues to the body, including the feet. Safety boots made from rubber and neoprene material offer various degrees of resistance against all these substances and chemicals and ensure safety for the workers.
5. Prevent slips, trips, and falls.
With your safety boots, slips, trips, and falls can be prevented more. This is because the safety boot comprises slip-resistance Soles with enhanced traction, offering better grip and stability on wet, oily, or sleeping surfaces. Some safety boots are made up of ankle support that minimizes the risks of sprains or twists from sudden slips or falls.
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6. Electrical hazard protection.
In specific work environments, electrical hazards are prevalent, and having a safety boot will help protect the wearer against electrical hazards in the workplace. The safety boot will act as a barrier against electrical currents.
7. Enhance comfort and fatigue reduction.
Safety boots are designed to provide safety to workers and bring comfort to the wearer. Quality safety boots offer enhanced comfort and minimize discomfort to the wearer.
8. Durability and longevity.
Safety boots are durable and designed to meet the demands of the work environment. High-quality safety boots will ensure longevity and help you save money in the long run. Its durability and longevity will ensure extended protection for the wearer.
9. Peace of mind.
A sense of peace of mind comes with wearing the workplace safety boot. The workers will not worry themselves Because they know that safety boots will bring a sense of security to them with a positive impact that will translate to increasing their well-being, job satisfaction, and employee morale.
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Onyeka Emma is a QHSE Professional with more than 10 years of experience in occupational health and safety, which spans many industries such as construction, beverage, oil and gas, etc. He has many health and safety certifications, including NEBOSH IGC, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 Lead auditor certificate. A member of IOSH, ISPON, and Nigeria Red Cross Society. He is interested in business, entrepreneurship, Speaking, and motivating people to do better for themselves. He enjoys leisure with a good motivational book.
