It is not surprising that about a third of all work-related injuries in the US result from slips and falls. Many professions face hazards and slipping on a wet or oily floor can happen to anyone at any time.
Watching someone going through the motions when they slip and fall never ceases to amuse us. The flailing of arms and legs, like some sort of contorted dance move is, I’m almost ashamed to admit, is hilarious.
Being on the butt-end of this situation is no joke and can result in serious injury. Yet millions of people in all types of jobs face this reality every day.
Who are these unsung heroes? The brave warriors of the urban jungle who spend their days heading down the slippery slope of providing us with the basic services that we so often take for granted.
I decided to launch an intensive investigation. After countless hours of research and relentless investigative journalism, I’ve been able to uncover the dark underbelly of jobs that require non-slip shoes.
Join me as I take you on a fascinating journey into the lives of everyday, unassuming working people who risk life and limb to serve the greater good of humanity!
My Curious Analysis in the World of Slipping and Falling!
Okay, that’s all a bit intense for such a seemingly mundane topic, but I had to get your attention. This is actually quite a serious topic and affects more people than you might think.
Now that I’ve perked your interest, it’s time get down to the reality of it all, the genuine dangers faced by people who need to wear non-slip shoes to keep them safe at work.
Are You at Risk of an Injury from Slipping?
According to an article published in the Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, slips, trips, and falls are the second most common cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries amongst American workers.
Not only is it a danger, injuries from slipping cost US employers a lot of money. These types of injuries can result in up to ten days of sick leave. While it’s nice to get time off work, there has to be a better way of getting a few days off.
OSHA Regulations
OSHA is not too specific about the requirements for non-slip footwear in the workplace. Employers are required to provide slip resistant safety shoes for employees working in situations where water, oil, or grease present a risk of slipping and falling. This can be good news for some, as it means that your boss may have to foot the bill for safety shoes. OSHA-approved non-slip shoes need to be ATSM 3445-21 certified.
Despite their best attempts, I don’t feel that the OSHA safety requirements cover all the bases. If we think of construction workers trudging over loose gravel and rocks, especially on an incline, the risk of slipping is imminent even when water, oil, or grease are not a factor.
When we put our minds to it, there are many jobs that require non-slip shoes. Apart from the obvious professions, like restaurant kitchen workers and processing plants that use a lot of water, there are plenty of less obvious examples.
I’ve attempted to list all, or at least most of these professions, even the more obscure jobs that may not come to mind when we consider the dangers of slipping.
Slip Resistant Shoes are a Must For These Jobs
Whether your employer is legally required to supply slip-resistant footwear, or you just want to make sure you’re safe at work, there are a myriad of jobs where non-slip shoes can be a real lifesaver.
You may feel that sneakers with a good grip could be sufficient, but I’d suggest playing it safe and sticking with non-slip shoes that meet ATSM requirements. These safety shoes have been tested and meet very strict criteria. Designing slip-resistant shoes for work is a complicated science.
Now, let’s get down to it, a comprehensive list of jobs that require non-slip shoes.
Don’t Slip Up
While there are many jobs where non-slip shoes are mandatory, it usually comes down to the individual to make an informed decision. Worker safety regulations are all good and well, but only you can assess the risks you face.
Even if your employer is not obliged to provide you with non-slip safety footwear, you should decide for yourself.
We all must negotiate slippery situations at some time or another. Some more than most. If you find yourself regularly walking on sidewalks or floors that are slippery, carefully consider your safety, especially if it is part of your daily working routine.
When we’re busy, we tend to focus on the job at hand, and are often in a hurry. In these situations, safety can often take a back seat. We are preoccupied with seemingly more important things.
Before you find yourself slipping and sliding your way to the emergency room, take pause for thought and consider your personal safety. There are many types of non-slip shoes that can be both comfortable and stylish. knowing that you are safe on your feet, will spare you a lot of pain and anxiety.
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