Case study of the impact of toecap type on the microclimate in protective footwear

Abstract

Protective footwear plays a critical role in work effectiveness and personal safety. It exhibits special properties due to the use of protective elements and materials, but these components may deteriorate its hygienic characteristics. This paper presents a study on the influence of toecap type on the microclimate in protective footwear (ankle boots). Toecaps made of metal and of a composite polymer material were evaluated. Changes in the footwear microclimate were monitored using a thermal foot model at a perspiration rate of about 5 g/h with and without the simulated movement function. The influence of the toecap material on the microclimate in the footwear was analyzed statistically. Under conditions of simulated movement, higher temperature and relative humidity values (about 32 °C and 90%) were recorded in the toe region of ankle boots with metal toecaps as compared to composite polymer toecaps (about 29 °C and 53%, respectively). These results suggest that protective footwear with composite toecaps ensures better ventilation of the foot during work. Relevance to industryThe current system of harmonized standards for testing protective footwear in terms of hygienic properties concerns individual materials of which the footwear is made. It does not allow for comprehensive evaluation of protective elements in footwear under simulated work conditions. This study provides evidence that metal toecaps in safety footwear used by workers may impair specific hygienic parameters which are critical for wearing comfort and foot health.