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Following OSHA Personal Protective Equipment Subpart I 29 CFR 1910.132, a worker must wear protective footwear when operating in a location where there is a risk of rolling objects, falling objects, things that can pierce the sole of foot protection, and electrical hazards from static discharge or electrical shock. Read More about Australian PPE Standards and Requirements.
If you work in an environment where foot injuries are possible, your employer will require you to wear protective footwear. While purchasing safety footwear, you must know not only of safety footwear codes but also the materials from which they are made. For example, if you understand the distinctions between steel toe caps and composite toe caps, you can be confident that the footwear you purchase is for your work environment.
When searching for new safety footwear and selecting purpose-fitting safety boots, you may encounter footwear with steel toe caps and footwear with composite toe caps. Both of these materials are used to protect the foot at work from various threats, but what is the difference between them, and which will provide you with the most protection?
Importance of Safety Boots
Safety boots are a must-have in an environment where foot injuries are possible. This includes footwear with a protective toe cap. These boots protect your feet against falling or rolling objects, sharp objects, and electrical risks. In addition, this type of boot features an impact- and compression-resistant internal toe box.
Most safety boots feature a steel or composite toe box. Additionally, alloy metals such as aluminium and titanium are used. This article compares composite toe boots vs steel toe boots to help you determine which provides the necessary level of protection.
When Should You Purchase Composite Toe Boots?
There are numerous situations where a composite toe is preferable to a steel toe. Composites, typically Kevlar, fibreglass, or other complex polymers or plastics, have the majority of steel’s strength (but not all of it!) with fewer disadvantages.
For example, composite toes are preferable if you frequently pass through metal detectors because they will not set them off. Additionally, composites are poor electrical conductors. That’s why electrical hazard safety boots always comprise composite toe boots. Finally, composite toes will not become cold or give chill feet if you work outside in wet and cold conditions, as they provide excellent insulation.
Another critical aspect of choosing these boots is their weight, as composite-toed safety boots are lighter than their steel counterparts.
Therefore, composite is your best option if you need safety toe boots with enhanced resistance to electrical dangers and coldness.
When You Need Steel Toe Boots?
Steel-toed boots protect against crush injuries, which occur when something hefty is dumped on the foot and crushes the toes.
There are alternatives to steel when it comes to safety toe boots. Steel is the most robust material available, providing the highest protection level. However, if you only desire toe protection, you also have various other options.
A cap toe adds a layer of leather to the top of the toe box for further protection against foot stumbling. While your foot may feel slightly more constrained, the toe cap provides additional protection without sacrificing mobility.
Steel-toed boots are the best option when the risk of injury to the toes or feet is high.
For example, steel-toed work boots are preferable in warehousing jobs because heavy items stored overhead can cause significant injury if they fall on a foot. Or when working around heavy machinery, steel-toed safety boots are a good option for the workplace.
Steel Cap Toe Boots | Composite Toe Boots |
Renowned in the market | Much less weight than steel caps |
Shatterproof and offers a high level of protection against punctures. | Fulfil Australian OHS regulations (protection against 200J of energy and at least 15kN of compression force) |
Designed to provide maximum protection from falling objects. | An ideal option for a metal detector as it is made of non-metallic materials. |
Due to the resilience of steel, your foot will be prevented from being crushed. | Enhanced resistance to electrical dangers and coldness provides excellent insulation, making it ideal for safety boots in cold areas. |
Find Perfect Work Boots for Every Day
Conclusion
Before purchasing and supplying safety footwear, assessing the environment and employee needs is essential. If you are still confused about which type of safety boots you require, please contact our helpful customer service staff at 1300 986 000, via live chat, or at sales@garmentprinting.com.au. They will assist you in choosing the most cost-effective option for your project.
Garment Printing provides a variety of workwear boots that meet the required safety standards for your work environment. Also, check out our website to shop from home for various styles.
Also Read:
- How To Stretch Work Boots?
- 5 Premium Safety Boots for Women
- Different Types of Safety Boots for Different Types of Jobs
Image Source: Shutterstock
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Meet Lisa John, a dynamic Content Manager and Marketing Professional at Garment Printing Group. With three years of industry experience, Lisa excels in crafting compelling narratives that not only illuminate the vibrant world of garment printing but also drive engagement and growth.
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