Foot Safety in the Workplace
At Clifton Foot & Ankle Center, we discuss foot and ankle problems arising from aging, sports injuries, and overuse. The workplace is typically not something we focus on in this blog. We rectify that today by discussing workplace foot safety, in honor of National Safety Month.
According to the National Safety Council, more than four million people sustain work-related injuries annually, many of them to the lower limbs. Here are some examples of foot and ankle dangers in different work settings and how to avoid them:
If you work in a factory or warehouse:
You are in danger of slipping, tripping, and falling when you carry a heavy load, walk on a wet or slippery surface, or encounter an electrical hazard. Your PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) should always include the proper footwear. Closed-toed, steel-toe, lug-sole work boots protect your feet from lacerations, sprains, and falling objects.
If you work in an office:
Foot safety issues are generally not as prevalent compared to an environment with moving parts, such as a factory or warehouse. However, they do exist. Consider your office environment: are the hallways lined with boxes that hinder free movement? Do wires running between cubicles threaten to trip someone? How about the lighting situation – can everyone see where they’re going? Look around and remove tripping hazards or add lighting as needed.
If you’re on your feet all day:
Supportive shoes are a must for helping prevent plantar fasciitis and arch pain. Nurses, teachers, retail salespeople, servers, and chefs are examples of folks who spend most of their time on their feet. They shouldn’t skimp on buying the best, most comfortable, and supportive shoes possible, replacing them when they show signs of wear.
If your employer doesn’t hold periodic employee meetings about general safety at work, or if those meetings don’t include specific recommendations for feet, talk to your manager about adding this essential component of employee safety. Some examples of ways your employer could help include providing employees with a list of recommended work boots and making anti-fatigue floor mats available.
If you sustain a foot or ankle injury at work, or if being on your feet all day leaves you with chronic pain, make an appointment with board-certified podiatrist Dr. Kenneth R. Wilhelm. We are experts in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle disorders and injuries. Fairfax County residents may call our office in Centreville, Virginia, at (703) 996-3000 or contact us online. ¡Se habla español!
