IC-AUGSEP23-PG20+21_Layout 1 01/09/2023 09:58 Page 20
WORKPLACE SAFETY
Building Brilliance into safety footwear
clair weston, head of marketing at uvex examines the latest footwear developments helping to keep workers safe on construction sites.
through intelligent design, clever technologies and high-quality materials.
F
EquippEd for thE ElEmEnts Extreme weather is a major challenge for construction workers and slip-resistant
rom extreme temperatures to falling objects, foot injuries are among the most common injuries to construction workers. Thankfully, safety footwear product development is gaining new ground and mitigating risks
footwear is essential. A rough, self-cleaning tread can provide good grip on uneven terrain and even on ladders or smooth surfaces. Preventing water from entering the footwear is vital, too. Having wet feet not only causes discomfort but the friction can lead to rubbing, sores and blisters. The dampness within the footwear creates a breeding ground for bacteria, too, which can lead to rashes, fungus and athlete’s foot. New technologies have been developed to
tackle these problems. For example, uvex waterstop technology – as featured in the
new uvex 2 construction – protects against water penetration four times longer than required by the European standard. It keeps feet protected and dry throughout the day without compromising breathability. Having fewer seams on the upper and the design of the tongue also help keep water and dirt out. Hot or cold feet, meanwhile, cause
discomfort and can also lead to blisters, fungal infections or even mild hypothermia. Climate control systems draw this moisture away, leaving feet dry and creating a breathable and comfortable climate.
strEss rEliEf Research into the hardship placed on joints from standing and walking on hard surfaces has facilitated the development of new shock- absorbing technologies that reduce the stresses on the body and improve comfort and safety. The new uvex 3, for example, has an
ergonomic two-layer sole made of a newly developed polyurethane that provides cushioning and slip-resistance. uvex i-PUREnrj technology cushions the foot and provides increased stability by recovering the landing energy from across the sole and returning it to the wearer. This results in the wearer exerting less energy throughout the day, greater comfort and significantly lower fatigue in the legs and feet. The outsole features a tread pattern intended to stabilise yet flex with the natural rolling motion of the foot to provide freedom of movement.
20 august/septemBer 2023 | industrial compliance
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