There are many different kinds of work. Some people sit behind a desk in an office or the steering wheel of a bus, others stand in front of a classroom or weave in and out of tables to bring serve food and drinks. But no matter what the occupation, one of the most important factors that everyone needs to pay attention to is the health of their feet. It may not be the first thing that you think of when you get a new job, but if your first day finds you on your feet enough, or even if you realize, a few hours in that you have made a poor choice in footwear, it is an issue that quickly comes to the forefront.
For some, the proper pair of work boots are a requirement of the job. In fact, for those individuals working with heavy equipment, in construction zones and factories for example, steel toe boots are not just recommended, they are a required part of their work uniform.
Why the right pair of steel toe boots are important
Yes, many people in many professions complain about foot pain, or leg and back pain that results from poor foot support or excessive walking or standing. But in the intense work zones where potentially dangerous machinery and situations are ever present, the right pair of comfortable boots are just as important as the steel toe boots that will protect your feet in case of an accident or unexpected event. While there are numerous safety guidelines and requirements set in place, there is always room for human error or equipment malfunctions.
It pays to follow the rules
These rules are in place for very good reasons. In fact one study conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics examined the many occurrences of foot injuries in the work place, and found that a massive 75% of those accidents happened when workers were not in compliance, meaning if they had been following the safety standards, the accidents very well may have been prevented. There are thousands of injuries that occur in the workplace that could have been prevented, if only the workers had adhered to the standards set forth by the American Society for Testing and Materials, or ASTM.
Workplace safety is a serious matter and should be treated as such. One standard put in place by the ASTM specifically spells out different measurements to determine the level of safety and stability that quality work boots should deliver.
Worth it in the long run
Maybe there is something inherent in many human beings that pushes against authority and rules. Particularly when many people feel that they have enough experience in a job or task, there is sometimes a tendency to lean away from the strict standards and rules. But while an average of $70 each year is spent per employee on foot protection, think about the costs of medical bills should something go wrong and damage the fragile bones in your feet when you decide not to wear your protective gear. It makes sense to protect yourself. And if you can’t seem to find the style that you like, you can always decorate them later. Just make sure they are properly protecting your toes.
Everyone has a job to do, and it should be the goal of everyone to work as efficiently and safely as possible. Some employers may even provide the right footwear, or give information about where you can find good discounts. But when it comes down to it, it is certainly worth spending a few extra dollars for the right pair of steel toe boots than ending up hobbling around while you attempt to recover from an avoidable injury.