SLIPS, TRIPS & FALLS
BEST FOOT FIRST
Dr. Martens highlights the importance of appropriate footwear to prevent slips and trips, citing their recent survey of outdoor workers.
To prevent slips and trips in the workplace, safety footwear must not only match the worker’s environment, but must also be comfortable. Wearing shoes that are comfortable might seem like common sense, however, in Dr. Martens’ recent survey of outdoor workers, whilst 78% cited comfort as the key deciding factor in the type of safety footwear they purchased; over half of those surveyed still felt their boots lacked flexibility and comfort.
Footwear trials should always be put in place before supplying a workforce with footwear, to ensure that all workers are happy to wear them over the course of a full working week.
Dr Marten’s survey was conducted within the construction, logistics and heavy manufacturing industries, where half of the participants spend at least 50% of their time working outdoors.
At Dr Martens style, safety and comfort are taken seriously during the footwear design process. Factors such as how long the boot will be worn for, whether it gives the worker enough support, is warm and waterproof are all taken into consideration.
In manual trade industries, employees spend much of their time on their
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feet and are likely to be lifting heavy materials as part of their job. It is thought that more than 11 million UK workers; half the UK workforce, could be facing health risks caused by prolonged standing and time on their feet. Wearing the correct and comfortable footwear is especially important in order to prevent serious injury, musculoskeletal issues and increased fatigue.
Foot Fatigue is typically caused by an imbalance in footwear. If the boots being used are too toe-heavy it can lead to shin splints and sore shins which in turn can force larger muscles to compensate, causing accelerated fatigue in those muscles as well. This soreness becomes cyclical, leading to more fatigue and can eventually have the potential to cause serious injury.
Commenting on the research, Jon Marchant, Global Category Manager at Airwair International Ltd, Dr. Martens said: “To remain safe, warm and comfortable when working on your feet all day, industrial workers must invest in quality protective footwear. They should only select footwear that adheres to EN and ISO safety standards and then look for features such as an air cushioned sole, that will help keep feet comfortable all day.”
Factories and branded suppliers that deliver a minimum of SR-A slip rating certified products in Europe are preferable. By using well engineered outsole designs relevant to the industry sector, and combining these with quality, suitable materials, the higher SR-C rating is achievable.
With a plethora of safety boot options available, it is imperative that employers check that they meet current ISO 20345:2011 safety standards.
Dr. Martens has launched its fully waterproof collection that is designed for comfort and warmth for workers and comes in three styles: TURBINE ST, SURGE ST and TORRENT ST. All boots are fully waterproof, non metallic and feature a composite safety toe cap and Smartmask® puncture resistant midsole. All boots also have the added benefit of a Smartmask® PU cushioned footbed to keep workers experiencing extra comfort throughout the day.
For added comfort, Dr. Martens also supplies specialist Doc’s Socks that feature padded terry cloth around the heel, ankle and underfoot.
www.drmartens.com/Industrial
www.tomorrowshs.com
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