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Foot Protection

Purpose
Safety shoes are required where the potential for serious injury to the foot may result from an employee’s daily job duties. Foot injuries may occur in areas where there are rolling or falling objects, objects piercing the sole, or where feet are exposed to electrical hazards, such as a static-discharge or electric-shock hazard, that remains after the employer takes other necessary protective measures. These guidelines are not intended to apply to functions performed by an employee on a rare or special occasion, unless the risk of foot injury is great.

There may be other instances when safety shoes are needed. Departments can determine this by performing a hazard assessment of their work areas. Contact EHS if you need assistance with this process.

Use of Safety Shoes
In general, the need for safety shoes is indicated if work involves:

Hand carrying rigid equipment or objects weighing 20 lbs. or more up and down stairs
Lifting or carrying rigid equipment or objects on a floor or level surface where:
20 to 49 lbs. or lifted or carried object is above knee level, or,
50 lbs. or more is lifted or carried at any elevation.
Use of wheeled carts or dollies that have a load of 50 lbs. or more.
Use of mechanical lifting equipment such as overhead hoists to lift and move material.
Areas where sharp objects may puncture the feet.
Areas with manual material handling carts or heavy pipes that could roll over the feet.
Frequenting areas where others are engaged in the above activities.
Shoe Design Standards
Safety shoes and boots meeting the ANSI Z41-1991 provide both impact and compression protection. Special types of shoes can also be obtained that provide puncture protection, or offer electrical insulation from foot contact with electrical sources.

Shoe Purchase
Chapter 33.4 of the UI Operations Manual states the following:

“Safety shoes, as authorized by the employing department, will be provided as needed to staff members required to wear them. Each department is responsible for determining the style of shoe that is to be worn by its employees. Staff members are responsible for maintaining shoes, including the cost of minor repairs.

In the event the department determines that special shoe protection is necessary or special shoes are required to meet operational demands, said equipment will be furnished by the department at no cost to the staff member. Each department is responsible for procuring safety shoes from outside vendors for staff members required to wear safety shoes. Shoes may be purchased with a departmental procurement card (Pcard) or purchase order, or the department may reimburse the staff member for shoes purchased directly.”

Each department is responsible for determining the amount they will spend on safety shoes for their employees depending on their departmental budgets and is responsible for procuring safety shoes with outside vendors for its employees.

Shoe Wear Factors
Damaged or defective shoes should be replaced.

Shoe Limitations
Safety shoes only protect the toes and not the instep or metatarsals.

bodyprotection (1)

The benefits of protective clothing

Many workplaces require workers and visitors to wear personal protective clothing (PPE) while on worksite premises if there are hazards present in the area such as open flames or chemicals that can cause harm. It is important that PPE is always worn correctly while in a hazardous area, as this will prevent accidents from occurring and make for a safer work environment.

By having PPE in place within the workspace, workers shouldn’t have to worry about being safe at work therefore reducing the likelihood of workplace injury or short-term/long-term health issues caused by a situation that protective clothing may have prevented. Here, we will discuss the key benefits of PPE in more detail, along with why investing in protective clothing for staff in all hazardous environments should be paramount.

Prevent injury from harmful bacteria and corrosives

If you’re working with chemicals, it is imperative to wear full PPE from goggles to gloves. Harmful and corrosive substances, particularly liquids, can be very dangerous if spilled or leaking occurs; often resulting in splashes which can be life-altering when contact is made with the skin or eyes. When working in an environment that aims to control harmful bacteria such as a clinical lab or a hospital, PPE acts as a barrier between infectious materials that can cause illness and damage to the skin. In these environments, protective clothing is vital.

Reduce the risk of respiratory illness

Respiratory issues from breathing in smoke, gases or chemicals from contaminated air can be toxic, so respirators are essential to protect your lungs from both long-term and short-term gas-related illnesses. However, on oil and gas sites, it is important to be fully equipped with eye protection, hearing protection and flame-resistant clothing. If working in oil and gas wells, this can expose workers to hydrogen sulphide, which can cause irritation and difficulty breathing in some asthmatics. One of the worst gases to inhale is crystalline silica; this is a known lung carcinogen that can cause silicosis and in the worst cases, can be fatal.

Protects your body from extremes of heat and cold

It is imperative to keep workers safe and comfortable, even in uncomfortable and dangerous situations. Protective suits and arc flash clothing from Reece Safety are some great examples of how PPE can keep you safe from extreme heat when welding or using electricals for example, as well as extreme cold such as outdoor or underground maintenance work. Multiple layers of PPE are to be worn for extreme temperature, including heat-resistant outerwear for hot environments or thermal layers and wicking material to keep you warm in cold environments.

Prevents injury

Whether it’s falling rocks or slipping, make sure you’re protected with the right footwear and head and body protection when you’re entering a hazardous area. Boots with good grip and a helmet are examples of much needed essentials to protect yourself from falling and head injuries while on the job; these injuries are some of the most common in the workplace, so be sure to wear your protective clothing until you are no longer in a hazardous area, particularly in more dangerous areas such as working underground, on building sites and in damp environments.

Top tip: Make sure your PPE is cleaned and locked away securely when not in use to avoid issues like cross-contamination or getting clothing mixed up at work, as each person requires different sized PPE to fit appropriately.

gloves

BENEFITS OF LEATHER GLOVES

Leather gloves are a timeless and versatile accessory that has been around for centuries. They are not only stylish but also provide practical benefits, making them an excellent investment. In this blog article, we will explore the benefits of leather gloves, from their durability and comfort to their ability to protect hands from harsh weather conditions and potential injuries.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Introduction
  2. Durability
  3. Comfort
  4. Style and Versatility
  5. Protection from Harsh Weather
  6. Protection from Potential Injuries
  7. Improved Grip and Dexterity
  8. Natural Insulator
  9. Easy to Maintain
  10. Eco-Friendliness
  11. Investment Piece
  12. Proper Sizing
  13. Conclusion
  14. FAQs


INTRODUCTION
Leather gloves are a staple in fashion and are a practical accessory for both men and women. They are made from high-quality leather materials that provide numerous benefits, including durability, comfort, style, protection from harsh weather, potential injuries, and improved grip and dexterity. They are an investment piece that can last for years with proper care, making them an excellent value for money.

DURABILITY
One of the most significant benefits of leather gloves is their durability. Leather is a durable material that can withstand regular use and wear and tear. The natural fibers of leather are flexible and durable, making them ideal for gloves that are meant to last. They are resistant to scratches, punctures, and tears, making them an excellent choice for those who work with their hands or enjoy outdoor activities.

COMFORT
Leather gloves are also incredibly comfortable. The natural fibers of leather are breathable and soft, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods. They conform to the shape of the wearer’s hand, providing a snug and comfortable fit that is perfect for activities that require hand dexterity. Leather gloves provide warmth during cold weather and are a great option for those who suffer from cold hands.

STYLE AND VERSATILITY
Leather gloves are stylish and versatile. They come in a variety of styles, from classic to modern, and can be worn with a variety of outfits. They are an excellent addition to any wardrobe and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Leather gloves are also available in a range of colors, allowing individuals to choose a pair that best matches their style and personality.

PROTECTION FROM HARSH WEATHER
Leather gloves provide excellent protection from harsh weather conditions. They are a natural insulator and can keep hands warm during cold weather. Leather gloves are also resistant to water, making them an excellent option for rainy or snowy weather. Leather gloves are also breathable, allowing hands to stay dry and comfortable during hot weather.

PROTECTION FROM POTENTIAL INJURIES
Leather gloves provide protection from potential injuries. They are resistant to scratches, punctures, and tears, making them an excellent option for those who work with their hands or engage in outdoor activities. Leather gloves can also provide additional grip, preventing slips and falls.

IMPROVED GRIP AND DEXTERITY
Leather gloves provide improved grip and dexterity. The natural fibers of leather allow for a better grip, making them an excellent option for activities that require hand dexterity. They are an excellent option for activities such as driving, gardening, and sports.

NATURAL INSULATOR
Leather gloves are a natural insulator. They are ideal for cold weather as they keep hands warm by trapping heat. The natural fibers of leather allow air to circulate, making them breathable and comfortable to wear for extended periods.

EASY TO MAINTAIN
Leather gloves are easy to maintain. They only require simple care, such as wiping them with a damp cloth and conditioning them occasionally. With proper care, leather gloves can last for years, making them an excellent investment.

ECO-FRIENDLINESS
Leather gloves are also eco-friendly. Leather is a natural material, and unlike synthetic materials, it is biodegradable. This means that leather gloves will not harm the environment and can be disposed of without causing pollution. Leather gloves are made from sustainable materials, such as lambskin, deerskin and peccary leather, they are often a by-product of the meat industry.

INVESTMENT PIECE
Leather gloves are an investment piece. They are durable, long-lasting, and timeless, making them an excellent value for money. With proper care, leather gloves can last for years, providing the wearer with a practical and stylish accessory that will never go out of style.

PROPER SIZING
When purchasing leather gloves, it is essential to ensure that they are the correct size. Ill-fitting gloves can be uncomfortable and can affect dexterity, making it difficult to perform certain tasks. Properly sized leather gloves should fit snugly but not be too tight, allowing for easy movement and flexibility. At Fratelli Orsini, we recommend using our size chart to ensure that you find the perfect fit for your leather gloves.

LEATHER GLOVES AT FRATELLI ORSINI
At Fratelli Orsini, we offer the highest quality leather gloves handmade in Italy by the best craftsmen. Our gloves are made with precision and care, using luxurious leathers that are guaranteed to last for years. Since 1998, we have sold over 500,000 pairs of gloves, and with over 30,000 positive reviews, you can trust in our quality. Our gloves come in a range of styles, from warm and fine linings like rabbit fur, cashmere, wool, and silk, to long leather gloves for the stylish women out there, great for gala nights, or white bridal gloves for weddings. We also offer the highest quality leather driving gloves that provide many benefits to driving, such as enhanced grip and improved comfort. Explore our collection today to find the perfect pair of gloves in many colors and styles to match any outfit or occasion.

CONCLUSION
Leather gloves are a practical and stylish accessory that provides numerous benefits. From their durability and comfort to their ability to protect hands from harsh weather conditions and potential injuries, leather gloves are an excellent investment piece. They are available in a variety of styles and colors, making them versatile and suitable for any occasion. With proper care, leather gloves can last for years, providing the wearer with a practical and stylish accessory that will never go out of style.