Steel-toe Boot Safety
No matter what industry you work in, safety is always a primary concern. The less often people get hurt, the less often employers have to worry about leaves of absence or hits to productivity. In particularly rough or dangerous industries, steel-toe boots are often essential pieces of protective wear.
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Steel Toe
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The name steel-toe boot is a little misleading. These heavy-duty work boots have a toe that's reinforced with a steel plate on the bottom and a steel cap on the toe. Instead of steel, though, many shoes have heavy polymer materials that hold up just as well as steel.
Legality
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Some industries, such as metal foundry and construction, have laws mandated by the U.S. Occupational Health & Safety Administration, or OSHA, that employees wear steel-toe boots or equivalent protective foot gear. These laws vary by employer. Check with the OSHA standards before buying protective foot gear.
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Misconceptions
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One misconception about steel-toe or steel-cap shoes is that they may be more dangerous that protective. An urban legend states that if a heavy enough weight falls on the toe of the shoe, the steel will amputate the wearer's toes. The popular television show "Myth Busters," using the same methods that test if steel toe boots are safe, determined that this situation doesn't occur if the shoes are properly made and tested before you buy them.
Other Concerns
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While the steel toe is what many people focus on, there's more to a steel-toe boot than just the toe. The sole of the shoe should have grip, for instance, because it doesn't matter how safe your toes are if you slip and fall on the work site. Additionally, the shoes should fit snugly and stretch well so you're comfortable wearing them because you'll perform better and remain safer.
Style
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While primarily a safety oriented boot, steel toes have become a popular fashion statement in many subcultures. Punk rockers and heavy metal enthusiasts wear steel-toe boots for their association with industrial work. Bikers may wear steel-toe boots as both a protective item and fashion statement.
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