Metalworking Safety Shoes

Bring on the safety toes. Objects that can fall or roll onto the foot are a common hazard in this industry, and metal isn’t known for being lightweight. Depending on the job, this worker might need footwear that offers not only impact and compression resistance but also puncture resistance, electrical hazard protection and metatarsal guards. And in any metalworking environment, a full boot that covers six to eight inches of the ankle can be a smart idea.

 
Best metalworking safety shoe features: Safety toe, puncture resistance, electrical hazard protection, metatarsal guard, full boot

First Responder Safety Shoes

What makes a great safety shoe for a first responder will depend on their work and the hazards involved. Firefighters, emergency medical technicians, police officers and other first responders routinely need protection against many hazards and should look into safety toes, puncture resistance and slip-resistant components that can offer good traction. And while they might not work for every job, lighter-weight footwear that are easier to move in can be a plus when workers need to be able to hit the ground running.
 
Best first responder safety shoe features: Depends on hazards; generally safety toe, puncture resistance and slip resistance

Oil and Gas Safety Shoes

Safety shoes for oil and gas industry workers are more straightforward, but they can have more components at play. These workers should consider safety toes, metatarsal protection, electrical hazard protection and slip resistance. Waterproofing is another concern if there is rain or water at an outdoor job site, since moisture inside the shoe can lead to discomfort and even trench foot, a serious health condition.
 
Best oil and gas safety shoe features: Safety toe, metatarsal protection, electrical hazard, slip resistance and waterproofing

Construction Safety Shoes

Construction workers often need to consider the same characteristics as those in oil and gas, like toe protection, slip resistance, puncture resistance and electrical hazard protection, because anyone on a job site can potentially be exposed to an electrical hazard. 
 
Best construction safety shoe features: Safety toe, metatarsal protection, slip resistance, puncture resistance and electrical hazard

Warehousing Safety Shoes

Although warehouse workers can wear lighter-weight shoes, safety toes are necessary in case of impact or compression hazards. That said, there are sneaker-like options for warehousing that are comfortable and supportive on flat surfaces but have protective safety toes.
 
Best warehousing safety shoe features: Safety toe, comfort, support and static dissipation

Safety from the Ground Up

Safety footwear is just one step in the right direction. Find out more about managed footwear and other safety services.