Boots are made for walking, but if you want healthy, happy feet, wear the right shoe for the job.

We recently talked about proper hand protection, now we’ll focus on feet. If your job requires you to stand for long periods, or work in hazardous areas, you can injure your feet without the proper protection.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 52,000 foot injuries occurred in 2014, and required an average of nine days away from work. 1

Wearing the right shoe for the job can protect you from cuts, punctures, burns, sprains, fractures, and broken bones. They can also help prevent slips, trips, and falls.

The type of foot protection you need depends on your work environment

Evaluate your work area to determine if any of the following are present:

  • Nails or other sharp objects
  • Potential for electric shock
  • Corrosive or hazardous chemicals
  • Wet or oily surface areas
  • Heavy objects that could fall on your foot
  • Blood or bodily fluids

Find the right shoe for the job

  • Flat, rubber-soled shoes provide a good grip on uneven surfaces, protect from electrocution, and help prevent slips and falls in wet conditions.
  • Leather work boots are sturdy, provide excellent support, and are appropriate for working outside, on uneven terrain, and in wet conditions.
  • Steel-toe boots are sturdy, provide excellent support, and protect the toes from falling objects.
  • Impermeable rubber or neoprene boots protect those working with corrosives, hazardous chemicals, blood, or bodily fluids.

Make the shoe fit

Shoes that fit poorly can contribute to foot injuries:

  • Buy comfortable shoes that don’t slip or pinch your feet and toes.
  • Measure both feet measured when buying shoes. If one foot is bigger than the other, buy shoes to fit the bigger foot.
  • Don’t expect shoes that are too small to stretch with wear.
  • Purchase shock-absorbing insoles if your job requires walking or standing on hard surfaces.

If you want happy feet, wear the right shoes, be aware of your surroundings, and pay attention to where you’re walking.

Your feet will thank you for it.

1 BLS  Nonfatal Occupational Injuries and Illnesses Requiring Days Away From Work, 2013, Table 5, Total private, state, and local government.