If you’ve ever worked in a job that puts your feet at risk, you’re probably already making use of safety boots. Most people know about steel-toe boots, but there’s another type of foot protection that offers even more defense: metatarsal boots. You might be wondering, what exactly is metatarsal protection, and why should you care? In this post, we’ll break it down and explain when and why you might need this type of safety technology in your work boots.
What is Metatarsal Protection?
This is footwear that guards the metatarsal bones—the long bones on the top of your foot. These bones are easily injured, especially if something heavy or sharp falls on them. While steel-toe boots protect your toes, metatarsal boots extend that coverage to the top of your foot, securing a larger area and reducing your risk of injury.
Metatarsal protection comes in the form of a metatarsal guard that can be either internal or external. These guards are designed to protect against crushing injuries, falling objects, and other hazards that could harm the delicate bones in the middle of your foot.
CSA certification ensures that your footwear meets the rigorous safety standards set by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). CSA certification ensures the metatarsal protection is reliable and meets the necessary impact and compression resistance required to protect workers in hazardous environments. So, if you’re working in construction, manufacturing, or similar fields CSA-certified footwear is a solid choice for ensuring your feet are properly shielded from harm. Look for the black rectangular badge with an “M” for certified metatarsal protection footwear.
Related article: What do the Symbols on Safety Footwear Mean?
Why is Metatarsal Protection Important?
Our feet are often more vulnerable than we realize. The metatarsals are exposed and have little natural protection. Since they stick out in front of your body, they’re often the first part of your foot to be hit if something falls or rolls toward you. A metatarsal fracture can be incredibly painful and take months or even years to heal, depending on the severity. So, protecting these bones is crucial if you work in an environment with risks of falling or rolling objects. In short, it helps prevent injuries that can sideline you for weeks or even longer, keeping you safer at work.
When is Metatarsal Protection Required?
You might be wondering, “Do I really need metatarsal protection?” Well, if your job involves lifting, rolling, or working around heavy objects, it’s a good idea to consider it. Your need will depend on the risk of a crushing injury to your foot, especially the top part of your foot where the metatarsals are located.
Common Jobs That Require Metatarsal Protection
Here are some examples of work environments where metatarsal protection is strongly recommended:
- Construction workers: Lifting heavy equipment or materials like metal pipes or beams.
- Warehouse workers: Handling large boxes or machinery that could potentially fall.
- Foundry workers: Dealing with molten metal or sparks that can burn the top of your foot.
- Welders: Exposure to flying debris or molten materials that could cause serious injuries to the top of your foot.
How Heavy Does an Object Need to Be to Require Metatarsal Protection?
According to safety guidelines, you should take the extra safety precaution if objects weighing 30 pounds or more are likely to be dropped on your foot. For objects that are rolled, a weight of 50 pounds or more would require the additional protection. So, if you regularly deal with heavy or awkward-to-carry objects, metatarsal protection is definitely something to consider.
What If I Only Need Toe Protection?
Great question! Steel-toe boots provide protection for the toes, but they don’t protect the top of the foot. If you’re dealing with heavy or sharp objects, metatarsal boots provide an extra layer of defense that steel-toe boots can’t match. This added protection can make all the difference in preventing injuries that could sideline you for weeks.
Types of Metatarsal Guards
When it comes to metatarsal protection, BUCKS line of footwear offers two types of guards: internal and external.
Flexguard™ Internal Metatarsal Protection
Internal guards are built into the boot and are hidden beneath the laces. These guards are lightweight and flexible, so you don’t have to worry about them being bulky or unsightly. They provide great protection without getting in the way of your comfort or mobility.
Metguard™ External Metatarsal Protection
External guards are attached to the outside of the boot. They provide extra protection and cover a larger surface area, but some workers find them unsightly.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between internal and external metatarsal guards largely depends on personal preference and your job requirements. If you prefer a sleek, comfortable look, internal guards are a good option. If your job involves high risks, external guards might provide the added protection you need. Both options meet workplace safety standards, so either can be a good choice depending on your needs.
FAQs About Metatarsal Protection
1. What does metatarsal protection do?
Metatarsal protection helps safeguard the metatarsal bones on the top of your foot from impact injuries caused by heavy or sharp objects. It extends the protection beyond steel-toe boots, covering more of your foot.
2. When should you wear metatarsal boots?
You should wear metatarsal boots if you work in an environment where there’s a risk of dropping or rolling heavy objects, such as in construction, manufacturing, or warehouse settings. Metatarsal boots are essential when there’s a significant risk of foot injury.
3. What’s the difference between metatarsal protection and steel-toe boots?
Steel-toe boots protect only the toes, while metatarsal boots offer protection for both the toes and the top of the foot. Metatarsal boots are necessary when the risk of injury extends beyond the toes, especially if heavy or sharp objects are involved.
4. How much weight requires metatarsal protection?
Metatarsal protection is typically required when objects weighing 30 pounds or more are dropped on your foot, or 50 pounds or more are rolled onto it. If the object has sharp edges or other hazards, the risk of injury increases, making metatarsal protection essential.
5. Do metatarsal boots meet workplace safety standards?
Yes! Metatarsal boots with internal or external guards meet safety standards in various industries and jurisdictions. Look for the CSA-approved metatarsal guard footwear, marked with the letter “M” on the label.
Conclusion
Metatarsal protection is a smart choice for workers who face the risk of foot injuries, especially in industries like construction, manufacturing, and foundries. Whether you choose boots with internal or external guards, the added layer of protection can make a huge difference in preventing painful and long-lasting injuries. So, if your job involves lifting heavy objects or working with potentially hazardous materials, consider investing in a pair of metatarsal boots to keep your feet safe and secure.
Stay safe and protect your feet!