Key risks

• Slips and falls due to soles that are worn, dirty, or unsuitable for wet or oily surfaces.
• Crushing of toes or instep from impacts by heavy objects if the toecap protection is inadequate.
• Puncture of the sole by nails, swarf or shards when the sole does not provide an adequate barrier.
• Electrical hazard from accidental contact with energised parts, especially if the footwear is damp or deteriorated.
• Burns or irritation from splashes of hot substances or chemicals if the material is not resistant.
• Trips and sprains due to loose laces, poor fit or incorrect sizing.
• Blisters, chafing and fatigue from prolonged use without adequate fit and support.
• Loss of grip and stability on stairs, ramps and uneven surfaces.
• Skin irritation or unpleasant odour due to trapped moisture and lack of ventilation.

Safe use

• Choose a model suited to the environment and task; consider features such as a reinforced toecap, slip-resistant sole or puncture resistance where appropriate.
• Ensure the correct size and try the footwear on with the socks you normally wear at work.
• Secure laces, hook-and-loop straps or other fastenings properly, and avoid loose ends that could snag.
• Inspect before each use the sole (tread and cuts), toecap, seams and fastenings; do not use if any damage is found.
• Keep soles clean; remove mud, stones and oily residues to maintain grip.
• Walk steadily; avoid running on slippery surfaces and use handrails on stairs where possible.
• If the interior gets wet, change your footwear and dry it completely before wearing again.
• Do not modify the footwear or pierce it; use only compatible insoles or accessories recommended by the manufacturer.
• In areas with electrical hazards, wear dry footwear in good condition; avoid tasks for which your model is not designed.
• In the event of chemical spills, remove the footwear carefully and clean it following the manufacturer’s instructions and those of the spilled product.

Storage and maintenance

• Clean the exterior after the shift with a damp cloth or soft brush, as appropriate to the material; avoid solvents and abrasive products.
• Remove mud and particles from the sole to maintain the tread pattern and grip.
• Dry at room temperature, away from direct heat sources; remove insoles to ventilate.
• Store in a cool, dry and ventilated place, protected from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Keep the footwear away from oils, fuels and chemicals when not in use.
• Disinfect or deodorise periodically with products suitable for footwear, especially if shared.
• Regularly inspect soles, toecap, seams and midsole; look for cracks, separation or delamination, or deformation.
• Replace laces, insoles or worn parts with compatible replacements.
• Replace the footwear when the sole is worn smooth, the toecap has suffered a significant impact, or after heavy exposure to chemicals or heat.

Restrictions of use

• Do not use as sports or leisure footwear, or for activities unrelated to work.
• Do not use in environments with specific hazards (high temperatures, aggressive chemicals, high voltage, chainsaw-cut hazards) unless the model is expressly designed for it.
• Do not use if the footwear is damaged, with a heavily worn sole, a deformed toecap, or broken seams.
• Do not use when wet inside or with socks that retain excessive moisture.
• Do not combine with incompatible accessories (external toecaps, crampons or unsuitable insoles).
• Do not share between users where there is a biological risk or strict hygiene requirements.
• Do not use on ladders, platforms or scaffolds if the sole is dirty, smooth or contaminated with oil.
• Not intended for minors; this is protective equipment for adult use.