As with all personal protective equipment, safety footwear should be inspected prior to each use. Shoes (and leggings) should be checked for wear and tear at reasonable intervals. This includes looking for:
- Cracks, tears, or holes;
- Separation of materials; and
- Broken buckles, eyelets, or laces.
The soles of shoes should be checked for pieces of metal or other embedded items that could present electrical or tripping hazards.
Employees should also follow the manufacturers’ recommendations for cleaning and maintenance of protective footwear.