ON THE JOB FOOT HEALTH

When your job requires you to stand for long periods of time on your feet or where work is potentially hazardous; it may put you at risk for developing foot injuries. However, many injuries can be prevented by keeping your feet healthy and following safe work practices.

In general, you should try to:

  • Bathe your feet daily and dry them thoroughly.
  • Check your feet frequently for corns, calluses, cracks, or signs of infection.
  • Keep your feet warm.
  • Trim your toenails straight across.
  • Prevent foot problems by visiting your podiatrist as part of your annual health check-up.

ON THE JOB PROTECTIVE FOOTWEAR

Safety shoes and boots protect your feet and help prevent injuries to them and can reduce the severity of injuries that may occur. In an industrial setting, the foot is one of the most commonly injured parts of the body. Because of many potential work hazards, it is important for you to discuss with your supervisor the safety shoe, boot, or other protective equipment that you need for your protection.

Falling and Rolling Objects: Steel-toe safety shoes are used to protect the toes of the foot.

Hazardous Chemical: Footwear made of rubber, vinyl or plastic with synthetic stitching can help to protect the foot.

Electric Current: Shoes or boots with rubber soles and heels, no metal parts must be utilized.

Extreme Heat and Direct Flame: Overshoes or boots of fire-resistant materials are employed.

Slips and Skids: Non-slip rubber or neoprene soles; non-skid sandals that slip over shoes; strap on cleats for icy surfaces are effective.

Sparks and Molten Metal Splashes: Foundry boots with elastic sides or quick-release buckles for speedy removal are necessary.

Static Electricity: Shoes or boots with heels and soles of cork or leather will prevent electrical buildup.

If your feet are injured while at work report the injury to your supervisor promptly to obtain necessary first aid. If further treatment is recommended, see your podiatrist as soon as possible.

This website is maintained to facilitate access to information about foot health and to provide information about footcare products. The content of this website, such as text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational purposes only and are not intended to replace the services of a trained health care professional or to be a substitute for medical advice provided by a qualified physician or other appropriate health care professional. You should consult your own physician or other appropriate health care provider on specific medical questions, including matters requiring diagnosis, treatment or medical assistance.