Common foot hazards on construction sites
- Falling or rolling objects (tools, materials, equipment)
- Punctures from nails, rebar, or sharp debris
- Slips, trips, and falls on uneven or wet surfaces
- Electrical hazards from live wires or energized equipment
- Chemical spills or corrosive materials
- Extreme temperatures (hot asphalt, cold weather)
Protective footwear types
| Type | Use case |
| Steel-toe boots | Protection from falling or rolling objects; general construction use |
| Composite-toe boots | Similar to steel-toe but lighter and non-metallic; ideal for electrical hazard areas |
| Puncture-resistant soles | Protection from nails, rebar, or sharp debris on the ground |
| Slip-resistant soles | Work on wet, oily, or uneven surfaces to prevent slips and falls |
| Metatarsal guards | Extra protection for the top of the foot from heavy falling objects |
| Electrical hazard (EH) rated | Insulated soles to protect against electrical shock |
| Chemical-resistant boots | Protection from corrosive or hazardous liquids (e.g., concrete, solvents) |
| Insulated or waterproof boots | Cold weather or wet conditions to maintain comfort and prevent frostbite or trench foot |
Best practices
- Inspect boots daily and check for cracks, worn soles, or exposed steel toes
- Replace damaged footwear and don’t tape or patch safety boots
- Lace boots properly to prevent tripping and getting the laces caught in equipment
- Keep boots clean and dry as wet boots can lead to slips and infections
- Choose the right footwear for the task
Discussion questions
- What hazards on our site today could injure your feet?
- Are you wearing the right boots for the job?
- Do you know how to check if your boots meet ASTM standards?
Key takeaway
Your feet carry you through every task so protect them with the right footwear. One injury can set you back for weeks.
OSHA Standard Reference: 29 CFR 1926.96 – Foot Protection
Related Standard: 29 CFR 1910.136 – Occupational Foot Protection