Hard concrete floors are common in many different working environments, from factories and warehouses to retail shops, hospitals and more. The reality, however, is that hard concrete floors take a toll on the body due to their inflexibility. Having to stand and walk on hard concrete floors for long periods of time can lead to sore feet, swollen legs and even knee and back pain. Over time, you may suffer from injuries and/or chronic pain. Therefore, it is important to take steps to protect yourself when working on this hard surface, and the following tips will help you to do that.
First and foremost, quality footwear is a must, especially when spending a lot of time on hard concrete floors. It is important to try them on to ensure that they are the correct size, avoiding both tight and loose shoes. It is important to do your research and to invest time in choosing quality footwear.Beyond an adequate fit, you will also want to look for shoes/boots built for comfort, and that have firm, thick soles and offer great arch support. Avoid shoes with thin soles. Those who spend a lot of time on hard concrete floors should also purchase insoles, which will provide additional comfort and arch support. You will also want to choose shoes/boots with slip-resistance so that you avoid slipping.
When working on hard concrete floors, it is important to alter your positions as much as possible to reduce the impact of hard concrete floors. For example, you could bring in a small stool to allow you to sit down periodically and/or you could bring in a small step stool to rest one foot on throughout the day.
If possible, you should place anti-fatigue mats in areas where you spend a lot of time. These mats soften hard concrete floors, thereby cushioning your feet and reducing pain.
Wearing the same shoes or boots every day can cause foot discomfort. Instead, you should rotate between a couple different pairs of shoes. It is also important that you replace your shoes twice a year (every six months) because over time, footwear loses its cushioning and support.
Mister Safety Shoes is an expert in both fit and comfort, offering more than 200 of the best brand names in safety shoes with premium options for working on hard concrete floors. Contact us today for more information.