Keeping Your Feet Safe and Healthy While Working

Bare FeetSince your feet bare the brunt of your weight, it is important to take extra precautions while working to protect them from harm. When your job requires you to stand on your feet for a long period of time, work in potentially hazardous areas, or work with potentially hazardous materials, you have some risk of foot injury. Productive workers depend on their ability to walk and move about safely, with ease and comfort. According to the National Safety Council, there are about 120,000 job-related foot injuries in any given year, with one-third of them being toe injuries.

Follow Proper Guidelines

While you are off the job, there are a few steps you can take to protect your feet, including:
  • Washing your feet daily
  • Drying them thoroughly
  • Checking your feet for corns, calluses, and cracks
  • Keeping your feet warm
  • Trimming your toenails straight across
  • Visiting your podiatrist.
  • Wearing protective footwear for each activity
On the other hand, when you are working it is important to do the following:
  • Develop safe work habits and attitudes
  • Be aware of the hazards of your job
  • Be alert and watch for hidden hazards
  • Watch out for other workers’ safety
  • Follow the rules and don’t cut corners

Wear Protective Footwear

Safety shoes were created to protect your feet, help prevent injuries to them, and to reduce the severity of your injuries should one occur while at work. According to the National Safety Council, it is estimated that only one out of four victims of job-related foot injury wear any type of safety shoe or boot. Your feet are the most valuable part of your body, and are constantly subjected to injury in the workplace. With many potential work hazards, it's important that you discuss with your supervisor which safety shoes, boots, or other protective equipment that you need for your protection.
 
Your podiatrist is specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of all manners of foot conditions.  Visit our office if you experience any work injury, or if you have any further questions on how to properly care for your feet.