The Purpose of Steel Toe Boots
Steel toe boots are traditional type of footwear used in many situation where heavy-duty protection is needed. Today, steel toe boots are not always made of steel, since other materials can serve the same purpose with benefits like lighter weight and easier production, but they are still often referred to as steel toe boots. Today these boots are required for some jobs in America, according to ANSI/ASTM regulations.
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Steel Toe Boots
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Steel toe boots tend to live up to their name; a section of steel is placed inside the toe box, or the tip of the shoe that surrounds the toes. Often, this steel cap is connected to a plate that runs through the sole of the boot as well, providing the same sort of protection on the bottom of the shoe.
Purpose
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The primary purpose of steel toe boots is to protect the feet, especially the toes, from impact. This is why the boots are used so often in construction and industrial projects, where falling objects can easily damage feet. The plate is extended through the sole for protection against sharp objects on the ground as well. Also, the steel features tend to make these boots more durable and longer-lasting in general.
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General Uses
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Construction workers and those involved in industrial jobs where heavy lifting is common wear steel toe boots. Some occupations, such as logging, are regulated with steel toe boot requirements to help protect all workers. The boots are also used when riding motorcycles, working on ranches, or enjoying recreational pursuits.
Added Protection
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Not all steel toe boots stop at the metal sheath. Many include extra protection, especially protection from electrical current. This is useful and sometimes required for workers who work near large electricity sources where injury can occur from absorbing electrical current through the ground. The boots may also be corrosion and acid resistant.
Considerations
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Steel toe boots are much heavier than normal boots, a commonly accepted drawback to the protection they offer. However, for workers who have to walk long distances during their jobs, the weight and inflexibility of the boots can become painful. Plastic and composite versions of steel toe boots are available in cases where the real steel boots are too heavy.
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References
- Photo Credit Pair of Old Dusty Steel Toed Work Boots image by Doodlebugs from Fotolia.com
