Choosing the right safety shoes which can be bought in a safety shoes shop (ร้าน รองเท้า เซฟตี้ which is the term in Thai) is not as simple as it sounds. It is necessary to take into account several factors to have adequate protection for your work. The important point is to choose the correct numbering, as shoes too tight or larger than your foot can cause problems. Therefore, always make sure that the shoes are well adjusted to ensure the protection your activity needs.
In addition to the necessary protective items, which we’ll talk about later, you can consider the look as well. After all, many safety shoes today combine protection with a more modern design. With that in mind, here are 4 tips to help you choose the ideal safety shoe. Keep reading with us!
- Identify The Risks Of The Work Environment
Professional activities, to a greater or lesser degree, bring risks to workers. Thus, according to NR 9, safety shoes are classified according to the possible risks within each activity. The risks vary depending on thermal agents, falling objects, electrical energy, abrasive and excoriating agents, cutting and piercing agents, humidity, and chemical products.
- Choose The Shoe Model
There are several models of safety shoes like sports safety shoes for women (รองเท้า safety ทรง สปอร์ต ผู้หญิง ,which is the term in Thai), such as boots, boots, shoes, and sneakers, with tie closures, Velcro or elastic, and other items that differentiate one from the other. The boot is the shoe with the longest shaft, being at least the height of the shin. The boot is ankle-length. In turn, the shoe and the sneaker have the barrel below ankle height.
The type of activity you develop will define the most suitable model for protecting your feet.
- Define The Leather Material
Leather is the upper part of a safety shoe. It helps protect the top of your foot from falling objects, punctures, moisture, and other risks. The upper can be produced in leather, scrape, cowhide, PVC, polyurethane (PU), microfiber, fabric, and other synthetic materials. That’s why it’s essential to know the materials, to choose which one is the most suitable for your activity.
For example, waterproof materials such as PVC or PU are recommended for those who work in damp places or have contact with chemical products. Leather, which is very resistant and durable, can be used in most environments.
- Know The Types Of Soles
The sole is the shoe item that helps provide stability, reduce impact and protect from slipping. Therefore, in addition to the protection factor, the sole is responsible for the worker’s comfort. The types of soles found are PVC, polyurethane (PU), and nitrile. PVC offers protection against sharp objects, sharp objects, chemical products, and liquids in general, as it is waterproof.
PU is a material widely used in the manufacture of shoes because it is resistant and long-lasting. The sole can be made in mono-density, with just one injection of PU, or dual-density. Protects against sharp objects, sharp objects, and chemicals.
The nitrile sole is indicated for environments with exposure to extreme temperatures (high and low) and flammable materials. This material offers heat resistance at temperatures up to 300°C, for one minute. It is resistant to cold, withstands negative temperatures, and protects against kerosene oil and other flammable liquids.
