Which safety shoes to choose for working at height?

We know how important safety is, especially when working at height. Choosing the right shoes can literally be the difference between an accident and a successful day at work.

This article aims to guide you in choosing the best safety shoes for your activities at height, by highlighting the essential criteria to consider.

The risks associated with working at height

The risks of falling and slipping are most common at height. A good pair of shoes must therefore offer optimal protection against these dangers. Working at height also exposes workers to less obvious risks, such as injuries due to poor posture or prolonged use of unsuitable equipment. It is crucial to understand that each type of height and work surface may require a specific type of shoe to ensure safety and efficiency. Are you working on a roof and don't know which pair of shoes to get? Discover our buying guide on which safety shoes to choose for walking on a roof.

Statistics show that many accidents on construction sites are due to poor grip of shoes. Indeed, according to recent data, nearly 25% of work accidents involving falls are directly linked to inappropriate or worn shoes. Complying with safety standards is not only a legal obligation, it is a duty owed to every employee. Existing regulations, such as those established by OSHA or ISO, clearly define the requirements for personal protective equipment , including safety shoes. Failure to comply with these standards can result in severe sanctions, both financial and legal, not to mention the human and moral consequences of an accident.

Safety footwear selection criteria

It is important that safety shoes comply with ISO standards and EN, which guarantee the quality and safety of the product. These certifications ensure that the shoes have been tested and meet strict criteria for resistance to shock, compression and other hazards specific to working at height. Complying with these standards is not only a guarantee of safety, but also a guarantee of quality and reliability in the long term.

Robust materials like leather and advanced composites provide durability and comfort, while ensuring safety. The construction of the shoe must also be taken into account, including the manufacturing method (such as Goodyear welt or direct injection) which influences the strength and flexibility of the shoe. Cutting-edge material technologies now make it possible to produce lightweight footwear without compromising on protection and durability.

A non-slip sole is essential to prevent accidental falls. Soles should provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, including wet, oily or dusty. Some soles are designed to withstand heat and other extreme conditions, which is essential for some working environments at height.

Ankle support is crucial to avoid twisting and other injuries. Shoes should offer good lateral and rear support, often reinforced by suitable lacing systems that ensure a secure and personalized fit, thereby minimizing the risk of injury in the event of sudden or unexpected movements.

A good safety shoe must also protect against the risk of perforation and falling objects. Protective shells made of steel or composite materials at the front of the shoe protect the toes against impacts. Anti-perforation plates integrated into the soles prevent injuries from sharp objects that could penetrate the bottom of the shoe.

Comparison of types of safety shoes

safety boots provide better ankle support, which is crucial for working on irregular or unstable surfaces, usually encountered at height. They are also more robust and provide better protection against bad weather and external dangers. In contrast, low-top shoes are lighter and more flexible, which can increase comfort during long periods of wear and during work requiring high agility. Each type therefore has its advantages depending on the context of use and personal preferences.

Depending on your sector of activity, some shoes will be better suited than others, with specific characteristics for each profession. For example, shoes for construction workers have thicker soles and puncture protection, while those for electricians are insulated to reduce the risk of electrical accidents. It is essential to choose footwear that meets the specific requirements and risks of your work environment.

Each model of safety shoe has advantages and disadvantages. The most popular models may offer better availability of spare parts and wider recognition of their effectiveness. However, they may also be less suited to very specific needs or more expensive due to their brand. We advise you to weigh these aspects carefully, taking into account frequency of use, specific working conditions and your budget. For example, a very sturdy shoe may be ideal for a harsh work environment but excessively heavy and uncomfortable for lighter or indoor tasks.

Practical advice for purchase and maintenance

Choose suppliers specializing in personal protective equipment, recognized for their quality and expertise. These suppliers not only offer a wide range of products that meet the latest safety standards, but they can also provide you with personalized advice on the best choice for your specific situation. Look for stores or online platforms with good customer reviews and responsive customer service.

Be sure to try them on at the end of the day, when your feet are slightly swollen, to choose the most comfortable size. Wear the socks you will usually use at work to get an accurate idea of ??the fit. Walk with the shoes around the store to make sure there are no points of compression or discomfort. Check that your toes have enough room without the shoe being too loose, as this could compromise your stability and safety.

Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your shoes. Clean them regularly and replace them at the first signs of wear. Use cleaning products appropriate for the material of your shoes to avoid damaging their structure and protective properties. Additionally, keep your shoes dry and ventilated to prevent odors and degradation of the internal material. Finally, periodically inspect soles and protectors for signs of excessive wear or deterioration and replace shoes as necessary to maintain optimal protection.

Summary of key points and encouragement of vigilance

Choosing the right safety shoes for working at height is essential to guarantee not only your safety but also your daily comfort. We explored various crucial aspects, such as safety standards, suitable materials and specifics required for different working conditions. Don't forget the importance of selecting your shoes from recognized suppliers, trying them on carefully and maintaining them regularly to maximize their lifespan.

We encourage you to always remain vigilant about the condition of your personal protective equipment and not hesitate to replace any footwear that shows signs of wear or failure. Your safety at height depends greatly on the quality of your shoes. Investing in the best equipment is a crucial step towards preventing accidents and protecting your health in the workplace.