Choose the Right Boot

Just as the right tools are essential for getting the job done, the right boots are very important too. Because if you’re not feeling healthy and enjoying a sense of well being, then all the tools in the world aren’t going to help. That’s why so many workers are choosing Steel Blue. Our 100% commitment to 100% comfort means they feel good on your feet from day one.

With the premium leather and quality upper materials, you don’t have to ‘wear’ our boots in. So correctly fitted, you put them on and get straight on with the job. No worries. No hassles. No arguments. That’s because we 100% guarantee they’re comfortable - or you get your money back!

 

Advice from the specialist

As proof of our long-standing commitment to improving foot health, Steel blue are Corporate Sponsors of the Australasian Podiatry Council (ApodC). The Australasian Podiatry Council provides professional representation for practicing Podiatrists across Australasia. Responsible for setting competency standards and training policy for practicing Podiatrists, the ApodC represents the best foot forward for the industry. And as official sponsors of the ApodC, Steel Blue therefore plays a small but vital role in the implementation of national Foot Health policy in Australia and New Zealand.

Foot health advice for Employers:

Foot injuries can be financially crippling so it’s vital to protect your workers’ feet. Did you know that one in five injuries in the workplace affects the lower limbs including the feet and toes? Stringent rules demand safety footwear in the workplace. In addition, by following a few simple guidelines, you can help to reduce foot problems in the workplace. It’s in your interests to do so.

• As an employer you can prevent foot problems at work:
• Ensure the right footwear is used for the right job. There are many brands, designs and types of safety footwear available. Ask the manufacturer or supplier to advise on the correct footwear for use.
• Comfortable safety footwear increases productivity and creates a happier work place.
• Have your employee try on the footwear to make sure the shoe or boot is the correct size and fits comfortably. Good quality safety footwear should not be uncomfortable if correctly fitted.
• Promote foot health in your workplace, especially during Foot Health Week (mid-October).
• Contract a podiatrist to give a talk on foot care to employees.
• Encourage your staff members to report foot problems, however minor (e.g. safety shoes that rub).
• Look at the foot health record of your company - multiple foot complaints may suggest the workplace itself is creating foot problems.
• Do a ‘Foot Risk Assessment’ in the workplace – look for ways to minimise the burden on your employees’ feet. (A podiatrist may be able to assist you with assessing workplace foot risks).
• Emphasise to the safety officer or occupational physician that foot complaints should be taken seriously.
• If your employees wear safety shoes, ask yourself: Do we stock an adequate range of safety shoes to suit every staff member? If not, out-sourcing the supply and fit of safety shoes may be more cost-effective.
• Allow employees a crossover period when they exchange their old safety shoes for a new pair

 

Foot health advice for Employees:

• As an employee, you can maintain your foot health. Here’s how:
• Wear good quality work socks and change them every day.
• Ensure your safety footwear is comfortable. Good quality, well-fitted safety footwear should not be uncomfortable and will need very little breaking-in time.
• Recognise that comfortable safety footwear will reduce fatigue and keep you fresher and alert longer.
• Be aware of the hazards in your workplace. If you have concerns about foot safety, alert your employer or safety officer.Make sure your shoes fit properly and that you wear appropriate shoes for your workplace
• Remember, feet shouldn’t hurt. Sore feet are a sign of a problem.
• Visit a podiatrist if you have foot problems.

 

Visiting a Podiatrist can help

Podiatrists are highly skilled health professionals trained to help prevent, diagnose, treat and rehabilitate medical and surgical conditions of the feet and lower limbs. Podiatrists have completed a Bachelor of Podiatry or higher degree and continually upgrade their skills and knowledge through further education and training. To find a podiatrist, go online to   www.findapodiatrist.org. More information about foot care is available at  www.feet.org.au. In Australia, refer to your Yellow Pages for podiatrists in your area or contact the Australian Podiatry Association in your State. In New Zealand, contact Podiatry New Zealand Inc.

PLEASE NOTE: This information is not to be used as a substitute for podiatric or medical assistance and is provided to you by Steel Blue and the Australasian Podiatry Council in the interests of better foot health.