WORKPLACE SAFETY FEATURE
grips and shock absorption. Another benefit is adjustable, easy to use lacing because it makes putting boots on and taking them off faster and easier, so wearers are not at risk of potential injury or wasted time struggling to get boots on or off. A key feature to look for when buying
work boots is that they actively work to correct foot posture, which can help reduce lower body and back pain by aligning the spine properly. Doing so will reduce musculoskeletal disorders and provide superior long term comfort. We think about what time of the day we
should eat, sleep and wake, but have you ever thought about the best time to try on footwear? It matters. The shape of the foot fluctuates
throughout the day. Ideally, boots should be tried on in the afternoon to get an accurate size, ensuring comfort throughout the working day. You may also see the most significant changes to your foot's shape when sitting versus standing, so when trying on your boots it is best to emulate your movements at work; whether that means sitting, bending, standing or crouching. Over your lifetime, try to ensure that your
feet are measured when buying new shoes. As we age, our feet naturally change shape and even size. You will also need to have both feet measured, and if one foot is bigger, choose the larger size.
GOODBYE TO THE ‘ONE SIZE FITS ALL’ APPROACH TO FOOTWEAR
The concept of ‘one size fits all’ does not strictly apply to work boots, which are manufactured in standardised sizes. The impact safety features have on overall comfort and fit mean that, for safety footwear especially, sizing is less than an exact science. Not every work boot will fit you properly, even if the ‘off the shelf’ sizing is your usual size because your anatomy is unique. Choosing the wrong boot can lead to long-term health effects and the potential for injury. Adaptability to suit individual foot shape is an important step in footwear design. One method for introducing this is to include a variety of easily-changeable insole options to better fit different foot shapes, from wide to narrow. The HAIX Vario fit system is an excellent example of how to improve wearer comfort and boot fit using this approach. Ultimately, musculoskeletal injuries
are a major problem in the workplace. When selecting safety footwear take it seriously, and consider both the long term benefits and potential impacts incorrect choices can have.
HIAX
www.haix.co.uk
INDUSTRIAL COMPLIANCE | SUMMER 2021 29
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