Checklist: Foot Protection

Workplace hazards can contribute to or cause a wide range of foot problems and injuries, from simple fatigue and athlete’s foot to serious burns, punctures and amputations. Fortunately, the majority of these problems are preventable.

The following checklist may help you evaluate your company’s foot protection efforts. However, it is not intended to substitute for a comprehensive safety program.

Yes	No	Does your written foot protection program include footwear and working surfaces?
Yes	No	Does it require the reporting of injuries?
Yes	No	Are program elements enforced and reviewed on a regular basis?
Yes	No	Is your foot protection selection based upon a documented hazard assessment?
Yes	No	Is there a documented review of employee-owned or provided footwear?
Yes	No	Is there a policy stating defective or damaged foot protection must not be used and must be removed from service?
Yes	No	Is disciplinary action used when employees do not adhere to the policy?
Yes	No	Is training complete and documented for all employees?
Yes	No	Are all exposed employees wearing protective footwear when necessary?
Yes	No	Are all foot protection items maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations?
Yes	No	Do employees know how to report damaged footwear when it is provided by the company?
Yes	No	Are employees instructed on the types of hazards that may cause foot injuries and on preventative measures?
Yes	No	Is there a reporting procedure in place for footwear evaluation and selection?
Yes	No	Are scrap, debris and waste stored safely and removed from the work site properly?
Yes	No	Are aisles and passageways kept clear from tripping hazards?
Yes	No	Are wet surfaces covered with non-slip materials?
Yes	No	Are changes of direction or elevation readily identifiable?
Yes	No	Are aisles or walkways near moving or operating machinery, welding operations or similar operations arranged so employees will not be subjected to potential hazards?
Yes	No	Are step risers on stairs uniform from top to bottom?
Yes	No	Are steps on stairs and stairways designed or provided with a surface that renders them slip resistant?
Yes	No	Where the ground or surface is wet underfoot, do employees wear impervious boots, shoes, rubbers or other appropriate shoes?
Yes	No	Is waterproof footgear provided, or are dry places provided, for standing during wet processes?