4 reasons safety footwear is essential for the logistics & warehousing sector

The number of business premises used for logistics and warehousing in the UK has almost doubled in the last decade. As a result of COVID-19 and the subsequent rise in online shopping, this has opened a large number of employment opportunities within the sector.

In fact, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that as of October 2021, there are approximately 1.8 million people employed in logistics and warehousing. With the majority of these workers spending every single working day on their feet, comfortable and protective footwear has never been more important.

With that said, here are four reasons footwear is essential for the logistics and warehousing sector.

1. Safety footwear protects against falling objects

Carrying and working around heavy objects that are stacked high is part of the day-to-day life as a warehouse operative. There’s always the chance that an item could fall, and it usually happens when least expected. Whilst heads should be protected with the appropriate PPE, the protection of the workforce’s feet is equally as important.

Many safety footwear options feature protective toecaps, which effectively prevent crushing injuries to the feet. From steel to composite and aluminium toecaps, there are various options available to suit different preferences and requirements.

2. Safety footwear prevents slips, trips and falls

Wearing appropriate safety shoes is crucial to maintaining balance and stability when moving around different surfaces, both inside and outside of the warehouse. Regular shoes may not provide enough grip and can increase the risk of slipping and falling, causing injuries to your workforce.

When looking to invest in safety footwear, slip-resistant outsoles provide better traction and reduce the chance of falls, especially on wet floors.

Did you know that 37% of all reported workplace injuries are due to slips, trips and falls? It’s the single most common cause of major injury in the UK, yet easily avoidable with the correct footwear.

3. Safety footwear enhances comfort

Whether out for deliveries or working inside the warehouse, a painful shift is never an enjoyable experience. Unfortunately, feeling sore and tired is a common occurrence I the logistics and warehousing sector, and is usually a result of improper footwear. With insufficient ankle and/or foot support throughout several long shifts, joint pain can grow overtime and cause severe issues in the long run too.

As time passes, pain can spread to the knees and even the back, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Safety footwear is not only designed to protect against immediate injuries such as falling objects or slips and trips, but prevent strain-related injuries through increased comfort. With superior arch support, each step feels light and supportive from sole to ankle.

4. Safety footwear reduces fatigue

Linked closely with the point above, fatigue can become a real problem as muscles in the feet begin to ache over long periods of standing. Whilst there’s no avoiding the many steps and moving around required in a warehouse, the right safety footwear can be of huge relief. The adequate cushioning and arch support provided by safety footwear is designed to alleviate strain on muscles in the feet, legs and back, meaning workers feel less tired and more alert throughout their shifts.

Take a step towards safer working with safety footwear from SMI

At SMI, we’re on a mission to provide more affordable and more sustainable safety products for the workplace. With an extensive range of safety footwear products, including safety boots, trainers, shoes and accessories, we have all your workplace footwear needs covered.

We’re also trusted by leading logistics and warehousing companies across the UK to deliver protective and comfortable workwear. For more information on how SMI can support your business, get in touch with expert team today.