Which safety shoes should you choose to be an order picker?

Dear readers, if you are looking for the best safety shoes for your preparation activities order, you are in the right place. We will share our expertise to help you make the best possible choice.

Types of safety shoes suitable for order pickers

The high-top safety shoes offer excellent ankle support and increased protection, which is ideal for environments where the risk of falling objects is high. They provide an additional protective wrap around the ankle, reducing the risk of twisting or injuries related to poor posture when handling heavy loads. Additionally, their high-rise construction provides greater stability, which is beneficial when handling bulky materials or in areas where balance is essential to avoid falls.

However, they can be heavier and less flexible, which could be a disadvantage in some intensive work situations. high-top shoes can limit freedom of movement, which can be restrictive during tasks that require increased agility or flexibility. In warehouses where order pickers often have to move quickly over long distances or perform repetitive movements, high-top shoes may be less practical.

low-cut safety shoes are generally lighter and offer greater flexibility, which is beneficial for the speed and agility required in the order picker profession. Their design allows for increased freedom of movement, which can be advantageous when handling light loads or performing tasks that require high mobility. Additionally, they are often more comfortable to wear for long periods of time, as they do not impose restrictions on the ankle.

However, they offer less ankle protection, which can be a safety compromise in some work environments. In conditions where the risk of falling objects or twisting the ankle is high, low-cut shoes may not provide the necessary level of protection. It is therefore important to consider the specific risks associated with each task and work environment before choosing between high-top or low-top shoes.

The job of order preparer

The order picker generally works in a dynamic environment, where speed and efficiency are essential. Duties include collecting items, preparing pallets and frequently moving between different areas of a warehouse. This role requires great attention to detail, as the picker often must follow precise lists of items to gather for each order. Efficiency is necessary, especially during periods of high demand such as promotions or end-of-year holidays, where the volume of orders can increase significantly.

Common risks include falls, slips or collisions with objects or machines. Unsuitable footwear can increase the risk of accidents or significant discomfort. For example, warehouse floors may be slippery or uneven, and cluttered work areas increase the risk of tripping over pallets or boxes. Additionally, carrying heavy or bulky loads can lead to twisting or falling if shoes do not provide adequate grip and support. Foot safety is therefore a major issue, requiring robust shoes, equipped with non-slip soles and impact protection.

Selection criteria for safety shoes for order pickers

Safety shoes must provide a robust protective shell to prevent crushing by heavy objects. This is a non-negotiable part of ensuring foot safety. This protection is typically provided by a steel or composite material shell, which helps disperse the force of impact away from the toes and foot. It is also important that this protection complies with international safety standards, such as the EN ISO 20345 standard, in order to guarantee optimal safety in various work situations.

Good traction is essential to prevent slipping, particularly in areas where floors may be slippery or uneven. Safety shoes for order pickers should have soles made from materials that provide superior traction on different types of surfaces, including wet, oily or dusty floors. abrasion resistance also ensures that the shoes last longer, even under intense use conditions, representing a better return on investment for the user.

Comfort and ergonomics

The comfort of the arch and good cushioning are essential to support the long periods of standing and the numerous movements characteristic of this profession. Shoes with good ergonomics often include midsoles designed to reduce pressure on the feet when walking or carrying heavy loads. These soles can be made of materials like polyurethane, which not only cushions impacts, but also provides increased stability. It is important that shoes adapt well to the shape of the foot to prevent foot problems such as plantar pain, bunions, or tendinitis.

Choosing materials that allow the feet to breathe significantly improves comfort and reduces the risk of fatigue and excessive humidity. Materials like natural leather or advanced mesh fabrics are preferable because they allow good air circulation, preventing heat and moisture buildup. These features are especially important in hot or very active environments, where excessive sweating can become a problem. Additionally, shoes with antimicrobial linings or odor treatments add an extra layer of comfort, keeping feet fresh longer.

Durability and maintenance

Investing in shoes made with high quality materials not only guarantees better protection, but also greater product longevity. Safety shoes for order pickers are often subjected to harsh working conditions, including abrasive floors, heavy loads and frequent travel. Materials like full-grain leather, ballistic nylon or high-quality synthetic materials provide superior resistance to wear and tear, ensuring continued protection in harsh conditions.

Easy to maintain shoes will allow you to maintain perfect hygiene and ensure that your shoes remain functional for longer. order picker safety shoes must be cleaned regularly to remove dirt, dust and residue that could compromise their integrity or effectiveness. Opt for shoes with smooth surfaces and water-resistant materials for easy cleaning and quick drying. Additionally, shoes with anti-odor features or antimicrobial linings help maintain freshness and hygiene, extending their lifespan.

Importance of choosing the right safety shoes

Choosing the right pair of safety shoes is important not only to comply with legal standards, but also to guarantee personal safety in the workplace. Workplace accidents in warehouses or during order picking can often be attributed to inappropriate equipment. Well-chosen safety footwear helps prevent many incidents, such as slips, trips or falls, which are among the most common accidents in these environments. In addition, they play an important role in the daily comfort of the worker. Ill-fitting or uncomfortable shoes can cause foot pain, musculoskeletal disorders or increase general fatigue, which reduces efficiency and can increase the risk of accidents. An ergonomic shoe, offering good support and appropriate cushioning, not only prevents injuries due to impacts or compressions, but also minimizes fatigue during long working days.

Do your feet hurt with your safety shoes? Check out our article How to avoid foot pain with safety shoes ?.

Safety shoes must meet strict standards, which vary depending on the country and the specifics of the tasks performed. For example, in Europe, the EN ISO 20345 standard defines the basic requirements for safety footwear intended to provide protection against various risks. These standards ensure that shoes have features such as protective toe caps (capable of withstanding forces of 200 joules), slip resistance, insulation against heat or cold, and anti-static properties. . By meeting these standards, employers and workers can be confident that footwear will provide adequate protection against the specific hazards encountered. It is therefore vital to ensure that the shoes chosen are certified according to these standards to avoid safety risks but also to comply with the employer's legal obligations in terms of protecting its employees.

Safe steps towards a protected future

By choosing suitable safety shoes, order pickers guarantee their safety in the workplace, while benefiting from optimal comfort and increasing their productivity. Invest in quality shoes to preserve your well-being and professional efficiency now.