Rubber boots
Table of Contents
Information on this page is drawn from "Rubber Boots for Concrete Work" published by the Laborers' Health and Safety of North America (LHSFNA)
Using Rubber Boots for Concrete Work
Background
The most commonly used boots among Laborers are simple rubber boots that have some of the following problems:
- have very flexible soles,
- don't often have a snug fit
- have little or no arch support
- are not snug around the calf of the leg
- allow moisture to build up from foot perspiration and blisters and general discomfort can result
- contribute to less stable footing because of the sloppy fit. Additionally, walking/standing on rebar and hard surfaces to place and finish concrete digs into the bottom of the feet and can risk chronic contact stress.
Typical concrete boots
Choosing the correct boot
Use boots that have:
- a durable, yet flexible material in the soles
- soles that are stiff enough to protect against rebar "digging" into the bottoms of the feet, yet flexible enough for comfortable walking. (either steel or fiberglass shanks will provide added support)
- a snug fit around the calf of the leg to ensure additional comfort.
- insoles that have impact absorbing material in the heel and ball of the foot to add to overall comfort. Adding insoles that absorb perspiration or wearing socks with "wicking" capabilities will reduce moisture inside the boots.
- semi-rigid arch support which will help create a better fit and allow for a more stable stance, and
- taping the tops of boots to pant legs to help prevent "mud" from getting inside their boots.
Cost
Top of the line boots will cost $50 - $60 per pair. This should include a steel or fiberglass shank, nylon inners for easy removal, snug fit and moisture absorption.
Inexpensive boots with none of the above features cost between $15 and $20 per pair.
Benefits
Workers report feeling less tired at the end of the day. Reducing fatigue may increase productivity over the course of the day.
Related
Insole for Rubber Boots for Concrete Work
