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Anti-Fatigue Footwear – What You Need To Know
Where people are standing for long periods of time, particularly on hard surfaces, there is the risk that
leg muscles can become static and constricted, which reduces blood supply to the feet. For assembly
line workers, as an example, whose job primally consists of hours of standing at a particular point in a production line, often on a concrete floor, this type of hazard is all too prevalent. Additionally, studies show that standing for excessive periods of time can cause joint pain in your lower back, hips and knees.
The invention of anti-fatigue matting was an attempt to ameliorate the effects of this long standing issue. The cushioning element built into the matting was designed to cause a level of instability, the effect of which causes the leg muscles to get working and thus counteract the tendency to tighten. Anti-fatigue matting works up to a point, but it does not really offer the best answer to the the problem. There are a number of inherent disadvantages with an anti-fatigue mats. They are generally a costly product that require ongoing maintenance and cleaning. Regular requirements to replace worn matting can be expensive, and they can present a trip hazard. Additionally, an obvious drawback is the fact that the matting is usually positioned in one place (i.e. at a workstation). As soon as a person moves away from off the matting, these properties are lost.
So, what is the answer?
Do away with costly, high maintenance matting, and replace with lightweight, practical anti-fatigue footwear.
Wearing lightweight and breathable footwear, designed with a highly effective shock absorption system while offering the proper foot support, is the best way to reduce the strains that are inevitably placed on the body when you are on your feet all day. The pressure on the body is lessened, with lower muscle effort required throughout the working day. This significantly reduces the risk of fatigue or injury and overall stability is improved. Anti-fatigue safety shoes reduce foot and body fatigue, while increasing foot and leg comfort due to their design characteristics which minimize force on key pressure points on the foot. The built in capacity to absorb shock, often combined with innovative soft, anti-slip, removable insoles and breathable material properties ensure they are the footwear of choice for many people working on the factory floor.
Wearing safety shoes with innovative anti-fatigue technology will help your workforce to be more comfortable and therefore happier at their work, leading to increased efficiency, productivity and focus throughout the day.
Rockfall TeslaDRI RF-120 Safety Boot
The RF-120 safety boot, brilliantly designed by Rockfall, is a great example of a boot with anti-fatigue features. All day comfort comes from an Activ-Step® recycled footbed which is made from post consumer plastic bottles and foam. This product offers best in class breathability, shape retention and arch cushioning. The dual-density EPR rubber outsole is shock-absorbing and offer great overall foot stability.
Because these boots are completely leather free, they are flexible and breathable whilst also being a sustainable vegan option, certified by the Vegan Society. They are also a more desirable option for female wearers or those shorter in height, as they are much lighter and compact than traditional work boots.
If your staff are on their feet all day, it is imperative that they are provided with quality, durable anti-fatigue footwear. Reach out to the Clad Safety team today on 01423 881266 and discuss your requirements with our footwear experts!