The Most Important Tool in Your Kit

If you are a tradesman, contractor, home renovator or casual do it yourselfer the most important tool that you have is your physical well-being. When doing physical work your feet are susceptible to injury or abuse. We take it for granted that the tools we use are what gets the job done but often we don’t realize how stressful the workplace can be or that our feet are essential to using those tools safely and efficiently.

Sturdy work boots especially CSA approved class 1 are better protection than ordinary shoes or sneakers, whether from punctures, dropped objects or falls. When working on ladders or steps a steel sole plate will distribute your weight and cause less stress to the arches. If you experience foot pain or fatigue a good quality cushioned liner or arch support is probably a good idea. Hard or uneven surfaces are not kind to your feet, ankles, knees, hips or back. Any comfort advantage you can get will be appreciated at the end of the day.

Stockings are another important part of your kit. Absorbent cotton or cotton poly work socks will keep your feet dry and protect them better from friction inside the boot. There are many types of stockings with special properties available now. Seam free, padded, insulated and blister resistant socks may cost a bit more but they can make your working life a lot easier. A good moisturizer to keep skin supple and careful attention to callouses before they become troublesome will keep you comfy on the job or job site.

Custom foot orthotics can play an important role in holding your feet in a better position inside the footwear. Whether for cushion or position this can have a beneficial effect on the knees, hips and back. Repetitive stress from doing the same movements or positions over and over can cause long term damage. If you are climbing stairs or ladders or just standing on concrete floors for a long time, repetitive stress is self-explanatory. Recurring tendinitis and pain from too much of this can lead to degenerating joints, compensation and early onset osteo-arthritis.

If you are thinking about how much you are hurting, you may not be paying as close attention to your safety as you should. This is the most important part of occupational health when working around tools and other workplace hazards. One misstep can have lasting consequences.

Be foot smart and work safe.

This article authored by Terry Trask C. Ped(C)