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Footwear Safety to Prevent Workplace Slips

Fall Protection

The Problem

Slips, trips, and falls can happen when we least expect them, and they’re a leading cause of workplace injuries. While many factors contribute to slips, one of the most overlooked causes is improper footwear. Whether it’s worn-out soles, muddy shoes, or simply the wrong type of footwear for the job, the risk of slipping increases dramatically. Today, we’ll discuss how selecting, maintaining, and inspecting proper footwear can prevent these incidents and keep you safe.

Identify the Hazards

  • Improper Footwear Selection: Smooth or worn-out soles on slippery or uneven surfaces.

  • Lack of Maintenance: Mud, grease, or other contaminants reduce traction and increase the risk of slipping.

  • Ignoring Task-Specific Needs: Using footwear suitable for dry conditions in wet, oily, or icy environments.

These hazards are easy to overlook but can have serious consequences if not addressed.

Safety Practices and Preventative Measures

To minimize the risk of slips, follow these steps:

  1. Selecting the Right Footwear:

    • Choose shoes or boots with slip-resistant soles, such as rubber or gripped soles, especially for slippery surfaces.
    • Match footwear to the specific work environment (e.g., oily floors, icy outdoor areas).
    • Avoid smooth-soled shoes in areas requiring additional grip.
  2. Inspecting Footwear Regularly:

    • Check for wear and tear, such as worn-out soles or loose stitching, that can compromise traction.
    • Clean mud, grease, or other debris from the soles to maintain slip resistance.
  3. Maintaining Footwear:

    • Clean your footwear regularly to preserve its slip-resistant properties.
    • Repair or replace footwear with damaged soles or structural issues.
  4. Adapting Footwear for Non-Routine Tasks:

    • Assess whether your current footwear is adequate for new tasks or unfamiliar environments.
    • Use a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) to determine specific footwear needs before beginning a task.

Real-Life Case or Scenario

Where possible, use an actual incident that you have experienced or been involved in.

E.g. Recently, a worker slipped on an oily surface because their boots had worn-out soles. They hadn’t noticed the loss of traction over time. The slip resulted in a strained back and several missed workdays. This incident could have been avoided with a simple inspection and timely replacement of the boots.

Employee Responsibilities

  • Inspect your footwear daily for wear, debris, or damage.
  • Clean and maintain your shoes regularly to ensure slip-resistant performance.
  • Match your footwear to the specific tasks and surfaces you’ll encounter during your shift.
  • Report footwear issues to your supervisor and replace damaged shoes promptly.

Employer Responsibilities

  • Provide guidance on appropriate footwear for different job tasks and environments.
  • Conduct periodic assessments to ensure employees are wearing suitable footwear.
  • Offer resources or allowances for purchasing proper work shoes, if applicable.
  • Incorporate footwear safety into Job Safety Analyses (JSAs) and training programs.

Discussion & Questions

  • "Have you ever experienced a slip due to improper footwear? What changes did you make to prevent it from happening again?"
  • "What specific footwear features (e.g., slip resistance, durability) are most important for your job tasks?"

Encourage employees to share their experiences and suggestions.

Commitment/Action Plan

Starting today, commit to inspecting your footwear before every shift and cleaning your shoes regularly. If you notice worn soles, mud buildup, or other hazards, take action immediately by cleaning, repairing, or replacing your footwear.

Wrap-Up

Footwear is often overlooked, but it plays a critical role in preventing workplace slips. By selecting, inspecting, and maintaining your footwear, you can reduce risks and ensure your safety and productivity. Thank you for your attention and for taking proactive steps to prevent slips and falls.

Standards Overview

  • OSHA regulations emphasize waterproof and protective footwear in wet or hazardous environments (OSHA 1910.136).
  • Employers are responsible for ensuring employees wear appropriate footwear for specific job conditions.
  • Proper footwear is not just a recommendation—it’s a key part of workplace safety compliance.
OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Legal Disclaimer

This toolbox talk is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The information presented is based on best practices and general industry standards but may not apply to all workplace situations.
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It is the responsibility of the employer, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and standards. The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
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Participants are encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals to address specific concerns or questions. Always follow your organization's policies and procedures for workplace safety and hazard mitigation.

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