According to EHS Today, more than 53,000 foot injury cases occur each year, resulting in lost workdays. On average, 4.8 out of every 10,000 workers lose work time due to foot injuries.
Additionally, research highlights that 80% of these injuries are caused by falling objects weighing less than 36.2 kg. This emphasizes the importance of wearing safety shoes while working.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) states that foot protection must comply with the ASTM F2413-17 standard, which includes specifications for foot injury protection:
✅ Toe protection capable of withstanding a minimum impact of 200 Joules
✅ Compression resistance to protect the toe area
✅ Puncture resistance using an anti-puncture plate in the sole
✅ Conductive or static dissipative properties to reduce the risk of static electricity buildup
Meanwhile, in Indonesia, Permenakertrans No. 8 of 2010, Article 2, Paragraph (1) states that providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety shoes, is mandatory for employers to protect workers from workplace accidents.
Types of Safety Shoes
Safety shoes come in various types, each designed for specific work environments.
1. Steel Toe Shoes
These safety shoes have a metal toe cap, usually made of steel, designed to protect toes from impact and compression caused by falling heavy objects.
✅ Pros: High durability and ability to withstand heavy loads
❌ Cons: Heavier than other types of toe protection
2. Composite Toe Shoes
Instead of metal, composite toe shoes use non-metal materials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, or Kevlar for toe protection.
✅ Lighter than steel toe shoes
✅ Non-metallic (ideal for high-security areas)
✅ Does not conduct heat or cold, making them comfortable in various weather conditions
3. Waterproof Safety Shoes
These shoes are specifically designed to protect feet from water and moisture. They are made from water-resistant materials to keep feet dry when working in wet or damp environments, such as agriculture or construction.
✅ Often equipped with anti-slip soles to prevent slipping
4. ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) Shoes
Do you work in an environment with electricity or electronic components? If so, this is the right type of shoe for you!
✅ Reduces the risk of static electricity buildup, preventing fires or explosions
✅ Uses rubber or synthetic materials in the sole to neutralize electrostatic charges
5. Chemical-Resistant Safety Shoes
These safety shoes are specifically designed to protect feet from hazardous chemicals and are ideal for use in laboratories, chemical factories, or industrial plants.
✅ Made from materials resistant to corrosion and chemical penetration, such as Polyurethane (PU) or Nitrile rubber
Also read: 6 Helmet Color/Construction Worker Head Protection
6. Puncture-Resistant Shoes
These safety shoes have a special plate in the sole to prevent sharp objects like nails or broken glass from piercing through.
✅ Essential for workers in construction or heavy industries
✅ The anti-puncture plate is usually made from composite or metal
7. High-Visibility (High-Vis) Safety Shoes
These safety shoes come in bright colors like neon yellow, orange, or bright green.
✅ Helps workers remain visible to colleagues and vehicle operators, reducing accident risks
8. Metatarsal Shoes
These shoes have an extra protective layer over the top of the foot, protecting the metatarsal area from injuries caused by falling objects or impacts.
✅ Ideal for workers handling heavy equipment or materials
9. Metal Instep Shoes
These shoes have a metal layer in the sole, providing additional protection against sharp objects.
✅ Commonly used in heavy industries and construction where the risk of foot punctures is high
10. Energy Absorption Shoes
These safety shoes are designed to absorb impact energy, reducing strain on the feet when working in high-risk environments like factories or construction sites.
✅ Helps reduce foot fatigue and enhances comfort for long hours of standing
11. Low-Cut Safety Shoes
Unlike traditional safety boots, low-cut safety shoes offer greater freedom of movement.
✅ Provides basic protection but is best suited for light to medium-duty work with lower injury risks
Final Thoughts
That’s the 11 types of safety shoes you should know! Ensuring proper foot protection is essential to prevent workplace injuries.
For other PPE such as safety helmets, full-body harnesses, and lanyard absorbers, you can find them at SpanSet Indonesia!