As a company with 20 years of experience in exporting safety boots, our safety boots are manufactured in strict accordance with CE standards for international markets. The blog today is to discuss when we shall replace safety boots.
Safety shoes are designed not only for foot protection from impact, puncture, chemicals, and electrical hazards, but also against slips, trips, and falls. Over time, the safety footwear could reduce its ability of protection in use. So it needs maintenance and replacing to avoid any workplace injuries.
Signs for Replacing Your Safety Shoes
We have some common signs summed up as below for reference:
1) Visible damage to the Upper
We shall not ignore any visible damage to the upper part of the safety shoe, such as cracks, holes, or tears. The ignorance could let our feet out of protection from external hazards like chemicals, water, or falling objects. If the stitching or seams are coming apart, don’t hesitate to repair or replace it. If the protective toe cap is visible or damaged, we must replace it immediately.
2) Sole Wear and Tear
The sole of the shoe provides enough grip and slip resistance. If the tread is worn down and becomes smooth, workers could fall and get injured; Cracks in the sole or separation between the sole and the upper show that chemicals, or other hazards can enter the shoe; Any punctures or objects embedded in the sole, especially for puncture-resistant safety shoes could mean that it’s time to replace it.
3) Loss of Cushioning and Support
If you feel foot pain, fatigue, or a lack of support, the cushioning inside the shoe could break down over time, even if the shoes still appear intact; Flattened or misshapen insoles would lead to strain on your feet and joints.
4) Compromised Waterproofing or Insulation
If waterproof shoes begin to leak, your feet might be vulnerable to wet conditions; Insulated safety shoes are used to keep warm. If your feet start to feel cold or damp in shoes, it may be time for replacing.
5) Damage to Protective Features
For shoes with steel or composite toe caps, any signs of dents, warping, or distortion indicate that the shoe can no longer provide the necessary protection. If any objects puncture the sole of your safety shoes, it’s time for a replacement.
6) Odor and Hygiene Issues
If there is a persistent odor despite regular cleaning and airing, the internal materials could be degrading. That could cause hygiene issues and damage to the shoe’s protective structures. If your shoes are used in wet environments and not properly dried, there could be mold or bacteria. You’d better replace them for health reasons.
7) Changes in Job Requirements
If you move to a new working environment (e.g., from light manufacturing to heavy construction), your old safety shoes might not provide the necessary protection. Even if the shoes are still in good condition, they may need replacing.
How Long Should Safety Shoes Last?
Generally speaking, safety shoes have a lifespan of 6 to 12 months depending on usage and environment. Shoes in heavy industries (construction, mining) may need replacing more frequently.
However, you’d better follow manufacturer’s guidelines on the shoes intervals so as to avoid any potential injuries, reduced productivity and expensive medical claims. Also, the guidelines from shoes manufacturers could help avoid urgent purchasing, when the costs would usually be much higher for production and shipment.
Why Delaying Replacement Is Risky
Without proper protection, workers are vulnerable to falling objects, sharp materials, and slippery surfaces. Also the discomfort or injury caused by worn-out shoes can lower worker efficiency and lead to more sick days. Besides, not replacing damaged safety shoes in time may contribute to failing workplace safety inspections and regulatory non-compliance.
Care and Maintenance for Longer Life of Safety Shoes
1) Remove dirt and debris of shoes, especially those used in construction or industrial environments and regularly clean the shoes with a soft brush or damp cloth;
2) Use appropriate cleaners based on the shoes material like leather, synthetic, and mesh fabric. For example, synthetic materials may only require mild soap and water;
3) Air dry after cleaning instead of direct heat sources like heaters or dryers in case of any damage to the materials or weakened adhesives.
4) Rotating between two pairs can reduce wear and allow shoes to “rest”.
5) And replace insoles and inserts periodically would also be helpful.
6) Reapply waterproof coating for waterproof safety shoes could help maintain their resistance to moisture.
7) Minor issues like loose stitching or peeling soles can sometimes be repaired with professional help or by using appropriate adhesives. For more severe damages, consult professional cobblers to see if the shoes can be repaired rather than replaced entirely.
When to Replace Specific Types of Safety Shoes
For steel-toe safety boots, replace them if steel cap is exposed or deformed; for electrical hazard safety shoes, replace them immediately if soles are worn through, as this compromises electrical insulation; For slip-resistant safety boots, replace them when the tread becomes smooth or ineffective on slippery surfaces. For waterproof boots, replace them when shoes start leaking or are no longer impermeable.
Conclusion
Don’t wait until it’s too late – inspect your safety shoes today to ensure maximum protection! Even with proper maintenance, safety shoes have a limited lifespan. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on when to replace them. Overusing worn-out shoes can lead to decreased protection and increase the risk of workplace injuries. Any other questions, welcome to us for further discussion.
Any doubts about safety boots, contact us https://toprisesafety.com/contact-us/
Learn more about safety boots https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steel-toe_boot
