Complaints caused by safety footwear: causes and solutions

From painful feet to back problems: why fit, support and ergonomics are so important when choosing safety footwear. They protect against falling objects, sharp materials and slips, but a good fit and adequate support are equally important.

Why can unsuitable safety footwear cause problems?

Employees who walk a lot, stand for long periods or carry out physically demanding work every day place considerable strain on their feet and legs. What happens if their safety shoes or work boots do not fit properly or provide adequate support?

This can lead to physical problems that often develop gradually and go unnoticed at first. What starts as minor aches and pains can eventually lead to inflammation or wear and tear of the joints.

Unsuitable protective footwear can place extra strain on other parts of the body. If the feet lack support or sufficient space, other parts of the body have to compensate.

Common problems in practice include:

• Painful feet.
• Tired feet and legs.
• Pressure points, corns and blisters.
• Knee, hip and back problems.
• Overuse of muscles and tendons.
• Heel problems such as heel spurs or plantar fasciitis.
• Irritated or inflamed tendons, muscles or joints.
• Wear and tear of the joints.

Good safety footwear obviously protects you, but it also helps reduce physical strain and, above all, should be comfortable to wear.

The feet support the rest of the body. If safety footwear does not provide adequate support or does not fit properly, it can subtly change the way someone walks or stands. This can place additional strain on muscles, tendons and joints.

Safety footwear should meet the relevant safety standards, but a good fit and adequate support are just as important. The footwear should also be comfortable to wear and suited to the work being carried out.

The choice of the right safety footwear depends on factors including:

• Risks and hazards present
• Type of work
• Surface
• Length of time spent walking or standing
• Shape and width of the foot
• Required support
• Correct safety class

Not every employee experiences the same problems. The type and severity of the problems depend on the work, how long someone spends on their feet, the fit of the footwear and personal factors.

Below are some of the problems our customers ask us about. Sound familiar, or would you like to know which solution is right for your situation? Feel free to contact our PPE experts.

Physical problems often develop gradually, and you may not notice them until they become more serious. Discomfort, aches and physical problems can eventually lead to sickness absence.

That is why experts recommend choosing safety footwear based not only on safety class or purchase price. A good fit, ergonomic support, comfort and suitability for the work are equally important factors in helping to prevent physical problems and potentially long-term sickness absence.

Safety footwear for women

Not all safety footwear fits everyone equally well. Many standard models are designed around a male or unisex foot shape. Women’s feet are generally shaped slightly differently from men’s.

Safety footwear designed specifically for women’s feet can provide a better fit, support and comfort. Various manufacturers therefore develop safety footwear specifically for female employees. Pressure points, movement of the foot inside the footwear and other fit-related discomfort can be reduced without compromising the required safety standards.

Additional solutions for foot problems

If problems persist or standard safety footwear does not provide sufficient support, suitable insoles, a different sole technology or (semi-)orthopaedic safety footwear may provide a solution. Below are some practical options.

Insoles

Not every foot requires the same level of support. Suitable insoles can improve pressure distribution, provide additional arch support and increase comfort. Only use insoles that are suitable for the relevant footwear model. This ensures that the protective properties of the safety footwear are maintained.

Sole technology

The sole of safety footwear also plays an important role. Some manufacturers use shock-absorbing or energy-returning sole technologies. These can help reduce the strain on the feet, knees and joints during prolonged walking or standing.

A good example is the Wellmaxx sole used in the ELTEN MADDOX range. This sole helps absorb shocks and returns some of the energy with every step.

(Semi-)orthopaedic safety footwear

For employees with persistent foot problems, an abnormal foot position or specific support requirements, an orthopaedic modification may be necessary. This could include individually fitted insoles, sole modifications or safety footwear specially adapted to the wearer’s feet.

However, not all safety footwear can simply be modified. A different insole or structural modification can affect factors such as fit, antistatic properties, ESD performance and protection provided by the safety toe cap. Always discuss this with a PPE expert or the supplier of the relevant footwear.

Protective footwear from all leading brands

Safety Products offers safety footwear from leading brands, with different fits and levels of support for various types of work. Many of these products are available directly from stock for fast delivery.

Can unsuitable safety footwear cause physical problems?

Yes. Poorly fitting safety footwear or footwear that does not provide adequate support can contribute to problems such as painful feet, blisters, fatigue, and knee, hip or back problems. That is why it is important to consider not only the safety class, but also the fit, ergonomics and type of work when choosing safety footwear.

How do I know if my safety footwear fits properly?

Safety footwear should provide enough room for the toes, fit securely around the heel and not pinch or cause pressure points anywhere. The correct width, last and support are also important. As the fit can vary between brands and models, trying on the footwear properly or having it professionally fitted is recommended.

Can I use insoles in safety footwear?

Yes, but not every insole is suitable for every safety shoe. Only use insoles that are suitable for the relevant footwear model or seek advice from a specialist. The protective properties of the safety footwear must not be compromised.

When should safety footwear be replaced?

Replace safety footwear when the sole is worn, the footwear is damaged, or comfort and support begin to deteriorate. If physical problems persist, it is also advisable to reassess the footwear. Always follow the manufacturer’s care and replacement recommendations.

Is the correct safety class enough to prevent physical problems?

No. The safety class determines the level of protection against workplace hazards, but says nothing about fit or ergonomics. The correct size, width, support and suitability for the work are also important for improving comfort and helping to prevent physical problems.

Can I have safety footwear professionally fitted?

Yes. Safety footwear can be professionally fitted. This involves looking not only at shoe size, but also at foot width, the last, support and, where necessary, suitable insoles. This allows the safety footwear to be better matched to the wearer and the work being carried out.

How does a safety footwear fitting service work?

During a fitting service, a specialist measures your feet to determine which safety footwear best matches the shape of your feet, the work being carried out and the support required. Based on these measurements, you will receive suitable footwear advice. This helps you choose footwear that fits properly and provides enough support.

Why is professional fitting of safety footwear important?

Every foot is different. That is why shoe size is not the only important factor: foot width, the last and the support required also matter. Having safety footwear professionally fitted helps ensure a better fit for the wearer. This can improve comfort and help prevent physical problems caused by an incorrect fit.