This is a question that we frequently receive here in the store or on social networks. Many people come looking for a boot when they need a boot or vice versa.
The truth is that these two shoes are very different from each other. If they were accidentally exchanged, this would put the worker’s physical integrity at risk, and the company would also be open to fines and penalties in the event of an MTE Audit.
To differentiate between Boot and Safety Boot, you can start by looking at the height of the barrel. If the shoe has a short upper at the ankle, then it is a boot. If the barrel is extended, shin height, or more, then this PPE is a boot.
To quickly identify, remember that an example of a classic Safety Boot is the white one, made of PVC, often used in butcher shops. The most common Safety Boot is produced in leather, usually black, used by construction professionals, etc.
Of course, these two examples are just tags for you to remember easily. Safety Boots and Boots come in different models, colors, and specifications that can also be important when purchasing.
Other Important Specifications
There are other important features about the Safety Boot that you need to be aware of. For example, the toecap and the sole. Have you ever heard of Composite Toe or Steel Toe? And Monodensity and Bidensity Soles?
Composite Toecap Or Steel Toecap
Boots with composite toe caps are more recent compared to steel toe caps. For this reason, more conservative workers and occupational safety technicians still don’t usually have them as their first option.
However, for some activities, this is the most suitable model. Because the composite is not an energy conductor, this becomes the best option for workers exposed to electrical hazards, for example.
Unlike Thorogood work Boots with Steel toe caps. As steel is considered an electrical conductor, this shoe could not be used in any way for jobs involving this type of risk.
Although, nowadays, there are already steel toe shoes with the proper approval against electric shocks. Believe if you want! It is always a good idea to carefully check the Certificate of Approval to avoid accidents in these cases.
When it comes to weight, Composite toe boots are about 30% lighter than steel toe boots. This is because it is produced using a material that mixes polyester, carbon fiber, and glass — elements much lighter than steel.
Both models protect against contact with chemicals, extreme temperatures, sharp objects, perforations, and falls of heavy materials. But on this last point, it’s good that we leave a warning.
