In the professional world, feet are among the parts of the body most vulnerable to workplace accidents. Whether on a construction site, in a warehouse, or in a workshop, the risks of foot injuries are frequent and can have serious consequences, ranging from temporary work stoppages to permanent damage.

But the good news is that a large proportion of these injuries can be prevented with one simple solution: wearing appropriate safety shoes.

In this article, we will review the most common foot injuries in the professional environment and show you how to avoid them by choosing the right safety shoes.

The most common foot injuries

According to a study by the National Institute for Research and Safety (INRS), foot injuries account for approximately 7% of workplace accidents.

A figure that underscores the importance of protecting your feet.

1. Sprains and strains

Sprains and strains typically occur after a misstep or slip. The ligaments and muscles can be seriously affected, especially for those working on uneven or slippery surfaces, such as construction sites or warehouses.

  • Causes: poor footing, slippery surfaces, or falls.
  • Consequences: pain, swelling, or even temporary immobilization.

How to protect yourself?

To minimize these risks, prioritize high safety shoes that offer good ankle support to stabilize the foot and prevent twisting.

Additionally, choose shoes with suitable soles, such as Parabolic® soles, which are particularly effective on loose ground. Thanks to their concave shape, they allow the outer part of the sole to penetrate the ground first, thereby stabilizing the foot.

2. Crushing injuries

On construction sites, in warehouses, or in industry, the risk of crushing injuries is common. Whether it's due to falling objects or mishandling heavy equipment, the dangers are everywhere.

  • Causes: falling heavy objects or crushing by machines.
  • Consequences: fractures, severe injuries, or even amputations in the most severe cases.


How to avoid them?

Shoes with protective toe caps are essential. In accordance with the EN ISO 20345 standard, all safety shoes are equipped with a protective toe cap, resistant to impacts of 200 joules, equivalent to a 20 kg weight falling from a height of one meter.

3. Puncture wounds

  1. Puncture wounds

In some professions, floors may be littered with debris such as nails, metal shards, or screws. These objects present a risk of puncturing the workers' feet.

  • Causes: nails, metal debris, or sharp objects on the floor.
  • Consequences: deep wounds, risk of infections, or severe injuries requiring surgical care.

How to protect yourself?

Safety shoes equipped with puncture-resistant soles, whether made of steel or high-resistance textile, provide essential protection against these risks. According to the recommendations of the EN ISO 20345 standard, safety soles must be able to withstand a minimum penetration force of 1,100 Newtons.

At Lemaitre, we have taken this protection even further with our exclusive DuoProtection® patent. This system combines a double insert made of stainless steel and high-tenacity composite textile, exceeding the requirements of the EN ISO 20345 standard. Thanks to this double insert, you benefit from reinforced protection of 100% of the sole of your foot, while preserving your comfort, even in the most hostile environments.

It is, however, important to recall that regular floor inspections and the implementation of cleaning procedures can significantly reduce the presence of dangerous objects that could cause injuries. Stay vigilant!

4. Blisters and irritations

Less impressive injuries, sometimes even overlooked, but still annoying and uncomfortable at work: blisters and irritations on the feet.

Blisters and irritations, often neglected, can cause daily discomfort and reduce productivity at work. They usually result from ill-fitting shoes or non-breathable materials, which promote friction.

  • Causes: shoes that are too tight or materials that are not suitable, poor foot ventilation.
  • Consequences: irritations, pain, and everyday discomfort.


How to avoid them?

Opt for safety shoes with breathable linings, which allow better sweat evaporation. This helps keep your feet dry, thus preventing the build-up of moisture that encourages friction and, eventually, blisters.

Choosing shoes that perfectly match the shape of your feet is therefore essential. That’s why we offer, on many models, a double-fit system that ensures comfort tailored to every foot shape: sizes 35 to 39 for women and sizes 40 to 49 for men.

Finally, to put an end to blister bandages, wear quality socks designed for safety shoes, such as our LEMAT or LINDOR socks.

5. Infections and fungi on the feet

In humid environments or after wearing shoes for long hours, the feet are exposed to fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot. These conditions can quickly become a chronic issue if not treated in time.

  • Causes: prolonged humidity, lack of proper foot hygiene.
  • Consequences: fungal infections, itching, skin irritation, and sometimes more severe infections.

How to avoid them?

To combat humidity, we recommend lightweight safety shoes made with breathable materials that promote sweat evaporation. Antibacterial soles can also be beneficial in limiting the spread of fungi.

It is also advisable to change your socks regularly and to air out your safety shoes after each use.

The importance of safety shoes to prevent foot injuries

Safety shoes are not mere accessories; they provide essential protection against numerous occupational hazards. In many sectors, they are even mandatory. Wearing appropriate safety shoes effectively prevents foot-related accidents and ensures the safety of employees in the field.

Essential functions of safety shoes

Safety shoes play several key roles in protecting the feet:

  • Protection against impacts and punctures: As mentioned above, thanks to their protective toe caps, they shield the feet from falling heavy objects and severe impacts. Additionally, the puncture-resistant sole prevents sharp objects from injuring the foot. These functions are particularly essential in sectors such as construction, workshops, or warehouses. Moreover, some work environments present specific risks of impacts on the metatarsals. For these situations, it is essential to choose shoes that meet the additional "M" requirement, which offers enhanced protection against these impacts.
  • Improvement of posture and reduction of fatigue: Anti-fatigue soles, found in many safety shoe models, are designed to absorb shocks and improve foot ergonomics, thereby reducing strain and pain in the legs and back. This helps prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
  • Reduction of slips: Anti-slip soles play a major role in preventing falls, especially in environments where the floor may be wet, oily, or slippery. The specific design of these soles optimizes grip on a wide variety of surfaces.

These three functions illustrate the importance of safety shoes, not only to protect against workplace accidents but also to improve everyday comfort and prevent the onset of long-term conditions.

How to choose the right safety shoes

To choose the right safety shoes, there are several criteria to consider:

Essential features

  • The manufacturing materials: The choice of materials should correspond to the working conditions. For example, in humid environments, it is recommended to opt for water-repellent leather, which can resist water while protecting the feet. Conversely, in warmer settings, breathable textiles are preferable to ensure better ventilation and limit excessive perspiration.
  • The type of sole: Similarly, there are several types of soles depending on your needs. In environments with a risk of slipping, such as industrial kitchens or warehouses, an anti-slip sole is essential. On construction sites, where sharp objects may be present on the floor, an anti-puncture sole is non-negotiable.
  • Comfort: You will spend many hours in your safety shoes, so never overlook comfort. Ensure that the shoes offer good support, are adapted to the shape of your feet, and most importantly, that you feel comfortable in them.

Safety shoes adapted to your profession

Each professional sector presents specific risks and requires appropriate shoes. For example:

  • In the construction and public works sector (BTP), where workers are exposed to heavy objects and rugged surfaces, robust shoes with protective toe caps are essential (available in aluminum, steel, polycarbonate, or composite fiber).
  • In the chemical industry, shoes resistant to chemicals and splashes are necessary to avoid burns or irritations.

Adapting your shoes to your work environment guarantees maximum protection while ensuring the comfort needed for optimal performance.

In this article, we help you choose the safety shoes best suited to your profession. https://www.lemaitre-securite.com/fr/blog/comment-choisir-les-chaussures-de-securite-adaptees-a-votre-metier--n11

Never neglect the maintenance of your shoes

For them to remain effective over time, the maintenance of safety shoes is paramount. Poorly maintained shoes can lose their protective properties and become uncomfortable. Here are some tips to extend their lifespan:

  • Regular cleaning: Regularly remove dirt, dust, and accumulated residues from your shoes. These elements can prematurely wear out the materials, especially the soles.
  • Proper storage: Store your shoes in a dry place, away from moisture. Moisture can damage the materials and promote mold growth, particularly in leather shoes.

And at the first signs of wear, change your shoes!

Safety shoes do not last forever and should be replaced as soon as signs of wear appear. Here are some indicators that it's time to change your shoes:

  • Soles that are visibly worn or smooth, reducing their grip.
  • The appearance of cracks or cuts in the materials.
  • A visible or deformed protective toe cap.
  • Shoes that are no longer comfortable, which may indicate that their shock absorption or support properties have deteriorated.

A pair of safety shoes in good condition is the first line of defense against accidents. Not replacing them in time can increase the risk of injury.

Safety shoes are irreplaceable in preventing injuries in the workplace.

By choosing models that suit your feet and your profession, you ensure not only your protection but also your daily comfort.

With the right equipment, you can confidently stride toward a safer professional future.