KEEPING TEEN WORKERS SAFE IN WORKPLACE

Restaurants and other eating and drinking businesses employ 11.6 million people in the United States. Nearly 30% of these employees are under 20 years of age. Many teens' first work experience is in the restaurant industry. OSHA can provide information to help youths working in the restaurant industry to be safe and healthy on the job.

Exposure of teen restaurant workers to injuries due to slips, trips, and falls while performing tasks such as carrying trays or bins of dirty dishes, washing dishes, mopping floors, emptying trash, cleaning, and spraying down parking lots. Slips, trips, and falls can also occur in the cooking area, from cluttered, slippery floors with oil, water, or food on them. It is particularly hazardous in this area because teens may fall into or onto hot surfaces or liquids.

Employers should make sure that all employees wear the appropriate waterproof and/or non-slip footwear. Crocs work shoes provide flexible, durable and uncompromisingly comfort, along with meeting the ASTM F1677 standards. Crocs’ independent test results demonstrate that Crocs lock™ tread is a leader in slip resistance. There are three styles that are ideal for the food industry.

High Velocity - Classic crocs comfort evolves into the first workplace boot with ankle support and a leather upper - Designed specifically for those in the foodservice and restaurant industry - Crocs lock™ tread exceeds most industry slip resistance standards - Slip resistant on dry, wet, soapy, oily, and greasy surfaces as tested by ASTM F1677 standards - Shock-absorbing sole and ergonomic footbed minimize the load on feet, legs and back, while circulation nubs help stimulate blood flow -Nubuck leather upper - ventilation ports for added breath-ability.

Velocity - Classic crocs comfort evolves into the first workplace shoe, with a leather upper - Ideal for the food service, hospitality and healthcare industries -Crocs lock™ tread exceeds industry slip resistance standards on oil, water, soap and a wide variety of slippery surfaces as tested to ASTM F1677 standards - footbed conforms to your foot creating a custom fit - Enhanced arch support footbed circulation nubs stimulate blood flow.

Bistro – the Bistro is designed specifically for those in the food service industry - Crocs lock™ tread, meets most workplace standards in slip resistance and comfort - Shock-absorbing sole and ergonomic footbed minimize the load on feet, legs and back, while circulation nubs help stimulate blood flow - resulting in reduced muscle fatigue and a more comfortable day at work – provides increased traction and conforms to ASTM F1677 slip resistance testing standards – enclosed design and thicker metatarsal area help protect foot from liquid intrusions – made with easy to clean crocs croslite material; simply rinse with soap and water.

Employers should consider implementing recommended safe work practices, including: a shoe policy program, the program could focus on employees wearing proper non-slip footwear, and could help fund proper footwear.

Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe http://www.michiganshoe.com/index.htm, Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI

When in Doubt, Throw it out.

Choosing the appropriate work shoe for the specific demands of the job is essential to ensuring that a safety shoe provides the proper protection. But selecting the correct shoe for the job is only half the battle, experts say. The other half is monitoring safety footwear for signs that the shoe may need to be "retired."

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all formula for knowing exactly when it's time to replace safety shoes, as there are many variables to consider such as the job hazards, how often the boot is worn and the size and weight of the worker.

When inspecting safety footwear to see if it needs to be replaced, shoes with steel toecaps will offer more tactile clues than shoes with composite material toecaps. For example, if a heavy object falls on a steel toe shoe, the steel cap will be dented and will not "spring back," indicating that the shoe must be replaced. Composite toe shoes, on the other hand, could be "irrevocably damaged" in the same incident and still maintain their form.

That's one reason why replacing impact-resistant safety footwear anytime something heavy is dropped on it. Even if there's only "mild impact," if there's any doubt that the shoe will be able to offer protection next time something falls on it.

There are steps that workers can take to make sure your safety footwear stays in good condition to extend the life of their safety footwear.

First, choose the right shoe. Often when safety shoes fail to meet expectations it's because the shoes weren't appropriate for the job task. If possible, see if you can conduct a hazard assessment for each job task to determine what kind of foot protection is needed for each job.

Then dedicate a few minutes each day to the care and maintenance of your safety footwear. This can go a long way toward extending the life of your work shoes. After each use, safety footwear should be sprayed off with a hose; dipped in water; or cleaned with soap, water and a cloth or brush, depending on the type of work shoes and how dirty they are.

Lastly, if it's feasible, purchase two pairs and rotate between the two pairs, on average, a worker can perspire as much as 200 milliliters of moisture into a boot or shoe when involved in heavy activity. Such moisture not only can eat away at the boot but also can cause discomfort and blisters for the workers. By giving each pair of work boots a day to rest, you allow the moisture to evaporate and dry out.

So, choose the right footwear for the right job, take proper care and you will extend the life of your safety footwear.

Michigan Industrial Shoe carries the best safety shoes and work boots for your job. We carry safety footwear brands like Bates, Caterpillar, Crocs, HyTest, Harley Davidson, Nautilus, Wolverine and more!

Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe www.MichiganShoe.com , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI

Two Common Foot Conditions

Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation caused by excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue which runs along the bottom surface of the foot, attaching at the bottom of the heel bone and extending to the forefoot. When the plantar fascia is excessively stretched, this can cause plantar fasciitis, which can also lead to heel pain, arch pain, and heel spurs.

Plantar Fasciitis often leads to heel pain, heel spurs, and/or arch pain. The excessive stretching of the plantar fascia that leads to the inflammation and discomfort can be caused by the following:

• Over-pronation (flat feet) which results in the arch collapsing upon weight bearing
  
• A foot with an unusually high arch
  
• A sudden increase in physical activity
  
• Excessive weight on the foot, usually attributed to obesity or pregnancy
  
• Improperly fitting footwear

Over-pronation (flat feet) is the leading cause of plantar fasciitis. Over-pronation occurs in the walking process, when a person's arch collapses upon weight bearing, causing the plantar fascia to be stretched away from the heel bone.

With Plantar Fasciitis, the bottom of your foot usually hurts near the inside of the foot where the heel and arch meet. The pain is often acute either first thing in the morning or after a long rest, because while resting the plantar fascia contracts back to its original shape. As the day progresses and the plantar fascia continues to be stretched, the pain often subsides.

The key for the proper treatment of plantar fasciitis is determining what is causing the excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. When the cause is over-pronation (flat feet), an orthotic with rearfoot posting and longitudinal arch support is an effective device to reduce the over-pronation and allow the condition to heal. If you have usually high arches, which can also lead to plantar fasciitis, cushion the heel, absorb shock and wear proper footwear that will accommodate and comfort the foot. Other common treatments include stretching exercises, plantar fasciitis night splints, wearing shoes that have a cushioned heel to absorb shock, and elevating the heel with the use of a heel cradle or heel cup. Heel cradles and heel cups provide extra comfort, cushion the heel, and reduce the amount of shock and shear forces placed during everyday activities. Every time your foot strikes the ground, the plantar fascia is stretched. You can reduce the strain and stress on the plantar fascia by following these simple instructions: Avoid running on hard or uneven ground, lose any excess weight, and wear shoes and orthotics that support your arch to prevent over-stretching of the plantar fascia.

Heel pain is a common condition in which weight bearing on the heel causes extreme discomfort.

There are two different categories of heel pain. The first is caused by over-use repetitive stress which refers to a soreness resulting from too much impact on a specific area of the foot. This condition, often referred to as "heel pain syndrome," can be caused by shoes with heels that are too low, a thinned out fat pad in the heel area, or from a sudden increase in activity.

Plantar fasciitis, a very common diagnosis of heel pain, is usually caused from a biomechancial problem, such as over-pronation (flat feet). The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom surface of the foot, from the heel through the midfoot and into the forefoot. Over-pronation can cause the plantar fascia to be excessively stretched and inflamed, resulting in pain in the heel and arch areas of the foot. Often the pain will be most intense first thing in the morning or after a prolonged period of rest. The pain will gradually subside as the day progresses.

To properly treat heel pain, you must absorb shock, provide cushioning and elevate the heel to transfer pressure. This can be accomplished with a heel cup, visco heel cradle, or an orthotic designed with materials that will absorb shock and shear forces.

When the condition is pronation related (usually plantar fasciitis), an orthotic with medial posting and good arch support will control the pronation and prevent the inflammation of the plantar fascia. Footwear selection is also an important criteria when treating heel pain. Shoes with a firm heel counter, good arch support, and appropriate heel height are the ideal choice. Footwear product recommended for the above conditions are Aetrex Athletic Socks, with Copper Sole™ Technology, they are unsurpassed in comfort, performance and protection. Copper Sole Technology has been lab tested and clinically proven to help prevent Bacteria, Fungi and Odor, as well as improve skin texture and appearance. The Aetrex® X801 Athletic Walker is designed to provide an equal distribution of pressure throughout the gait cycle while maintaining the highest standards in density orthotics feature a Pro-Shox™ top cover for superior cushioning and shock absorption. Lynco® Biomechanical Sports Orthotics are designed specifically for comfort, support and weight redistribution in athletic, walking and comfort footwear.

Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe http://www.michiganshoe.com/ , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI

Soles4Souls 50,000 Shoes in 50 Days Challenge!

Soles4Souls has a simple mission: To impact as many lives as possible with the gift of shoes.

Soles4Souls has a holiday mission: To raise 50,000 shoes in 50 days. This program started 18 days ago and runs for another 32 days through December 30, 2008. A $5.00 donation will purchase 2 pairs of shoes for someone in need. Three easy clicks will help someone in need this holiday season. Start here.

The Founder and CEO of Soles4Souls is Wayne Elsey he grew up in the Washington, D.C. area, and always felt compassion for other people. When Wayne's brother Timmy, was killed tragically in 1986, he was an enormous influence on his life. "My brother had a huge impact on me and taught me to have a soft heart," Elsey said. "He would do anything for anyone - he was just trying to make a difference in the world."

Wayne has worked in the footwear industry since he was 15. He started by helping out on the floor and stockroom of a retailer and worked his way up to serve as President and CEOs of several footwear companies in the United States. Still, Wayne felt his life's potential was not being fully realized. He wanted to help people with more than providing a great product.

In the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami that hit Southeast Asia, Wayne Elsey, the Founder and CEO of Soles4Souls™ Inc., felt compelled to do something. Like many of us, he did not know what to do. He was at home one night, watching TV and he saw a picture of a single shoe washing up on the beach. That triggered a few calls to some other executives in the footwear industry and the subsequent donation of a quarter of a million shoes to victims in the devastated countries.

A year later when Katrina hit, Wayne called the same group of friends, and they sent over a million pairs of shoes down to the gulf coast communities affected by the hurricane. In all honesty, he admits that he did not expect such an immediate and successful turnout. This left him wondering, why not start a non-profit and do this all the time? One year later, Soles4Souls was formally created.

Since that day, Elsey watched as the charity continued to rapidly expand. "I was working full-time as President of another company while I was also trying to give advice to the Soles4Souls team and realized I had to make a choice," Elsey said. "I couldn't do both, and that's when I realized that the pure joy of working with Soles4Souls - a simple mission to give away free footwear to needy people - was more more gratifying than selling a million pair of shoes for profit."

Soles4Souls has a simple concept. They get shoes and give them away. It has been that simple: Changing the world one pair at a time.

Soles4Souls is a shoe charity dedicated to helping those in need. As a shoe charity they collect worn shoes to donate them to those in need. The donation of shoes gives someone the hope for a better tomorrow. As a shoe charity they collect gently worn shoes to donate them to those in need – it is a great way to recycle shoes. Please donate today.

Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe http://www.michiganshoe.com/ , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI

Buy the Right Shoes for the Commercial Kitchen

A busy commercial kitchen – in a hotel, fast food restaurant or the best restaurant in town – could be one of the most dangerous places to work. Slippery floors, knives and other sharp tools, hot surfaces, heavy pieces of moveable equipment, awkward food packages and congested quarters are all invitations for injuries. Add to that mix of dangers the rush of activity during lunch or dinnertime and there is a perfect recipe for a disastrous and costly accident.

Despite all the existing dangers in the kitchen, slips and falls are the leading hazards for restaurant and hospitality kitchens, accounting for 34 percent of all restaurant worker injury cases, according to a survey conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 1994, and slips and falls and other kitchen accidents account for the majority of workers’ compensation claims in the food service industry. One of the key issues with slips and falls is that they cause a host of back, knee, head, wrist and other musculoskeletal injuries that require long-term care. This is why making foot protection a useful tool for safety professionals looking to reduce slips and falls.

Reduce your exposure to slip and fall accident by purchasing slip-resistant footwear. The material used in the heel and sole of footwear is a major factor in its ability to be slip-resistant. Softer compounds are generally more slip-resistant than harder materials because they more effectively "grab" a surface. Tread patterns significantly can affect slip-resistance performance. Tread patterns that run in the direction of travel are ill-advised, as they tend to accentuate – rather than slow down – forward motion. Also, it is important to avoid patterns that are closed-in, as these can trap water and other liquids, which increases the likelihood of slips.

Shoe comfort also is an important aspect of safety, comfort increases energy and thus increases safety. To feel comfortable in the shoe that you are in is to be safe. Cleaning also helps performance, especially in the case of slip-resistant shoes. It is advised to use a brush and degreaser to clean the bottom of slip-resistant shoes so they maintain their traction. Wear and tear have an impact on the effectiveness of slip-resistant footwear, but several factors influence the degree to which they do so. In any event, it's just a matter of time before slip resistance begins to deteriorate and the footwear needs to be replaced. Upon inspection, signs of wear are usually clear. For example, the rear of the heel may be worn away and the sharp peaks of treads will appear shorter and flatter.

Many varieties of footwear on the market are promoted as slip-resistant. Of note, most tests for slip-resistant footwear contemplate clean, dry floor conditions. Test method ASTM F489 is the most commonly performed and cited test for footwear slip resistance, but specifies dry testing only. Performance in wet conditions may be different. If you are asking for an ideal footwear for the food service industry, it would be a three-quarter top – something that covers the ankle bone, just high enough to protect that sensitive bone. If you look at a kitchen environment, a slip and fall can turn into a lot of things, such as a back injury, a bump in the head or even a fatal wound. If a chef is carrying a heavy pan and it lands on the ankle bone, he could be crippled for days or even more.

Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe www.MichiganShoe.com , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI

Merrell Updates Performance Line with Ortholite Insoles

OrthoLite, the leader of open cell foam insoles, has partnered with Merrell to incorporate its proprietary insoles into more than 100 footwear styles. By early 2008, Merrell expanded the number of shoes with OrthoLite insoles throughout most of their line; raising the bar of comfort and performance by millions of pairs.

In addition, Merrell introduced a new line of aftermarket insoles to offer customers additional comfort with OrthoLite technology. The new insoles will contain all the benefits of traditional OrthoLite foams, such as long-lasting cushioning and moisture wicking for an optimal in-shoe environment.

“When looking for the best way to provide customers with a high-quality insole, the decision to partner with OrthoLite was easy,” said Yahn Lebo, strategic business unit manager for Outventure, Merrell. “No other insole is able to provide the balance of anti-odor properties, breathability, moisture wicking and long-lasting comfort to our customers.”

“Merrell’s long history of creating quality performance footwear combined with OrthoLite’s customized technology and benefits will offer outdoor enthusiasts an enhanced level of comfort.” said Glenn Barrett, OrthoLite CEO.

Consumers will be able to easily identify styles that offer OrthoLite comfort by looking for the logo on the shoe’s insole. Merrell footwear and insoles are available at Merrell stores, at retailers nationwide or by visiting www.michiganshoe.com.

Merrell® is a brand within the Outdoor Group, a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. that also includes Patagonia Footwear. Wolverine World Wide, Inc. is headquartered in Rockford, Michigan. The company’s portfolio of highly-recognized brands includes: Bates®, Hush Puppies®, HYTEST®, Merrell®, Sebago® and Wolverine®. The Company is also the exclusive footwear licensee of the following popular brands: CAT®, Harley-Davidson® and Patagonia®.

Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe http://www.michiganshoe.com/ , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI

Happy Birthday Jungle Moc!

Merrell’s Jungle Moc is turning 10 years old. Here’s a Birthday salute to a very comfortable shoe.

The Jungle Moc has been imitated but never fully reproduced by so many other manufacturers. That alone can tell you the success of this casual shoe by Merrell, a division of Wolverine Worldwide. Merrell has had tremendous growth with plans to be a $1 Billion brand for Wolverine Worldwide.

What’s Merrell’s Mantra? “Let’s Go Outside”. Who created the after sport category of footwear? Merrell.

Originally targeted at the outdoor enthusiast, just like most of Merrell’s footwear, the Jungle Moc became the shoe for any type of enthusiast, with or without enthusiasm. People wear them to go for a walk, go shopping or just to get the mail.

People began to wear the casual shoe for any occasion where a comfortable casual shoe was acceptable. They even began to come to the corporate work place on casual Fridays.

So, how many pair have you owned in the last ten years?

My 7 year-old-daughter has been wearing them for the last 5 years. That translates to about 6 pair. They have been mostly taupe, but she’s gone through two pairs of black jungle mocs and 1 pair of purple jungle moc shoes as well.

My husband still has a pair from the first year they came out. They don’t look to good, but he’ll still wears them for yard work. He’s also had several since then and one pair of new jungle mocs are still in his closet for casual work days.

Me? I have had two pair of the original jungle mocs and also have a pair of the winter polartec jungle mocs. They are a nice and toasty pair of winter shoes. I hate to wear winter boots.

So, Happy Birthday Jungle Moc. We wish you another successful 10 years!

What’s your Jungle Moc story?

Written By: Lisa Girolami, Marketing Manager of Michigan Industrial Shoe, www.MichiganShoe.com , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI

Insulation for Cold Weather Boots

What makes Thinsulate™ Insulation so important to a cold-weather boot? Three words: thin, warm, light.

A thin insulation, of course, is crucial in boots for warmth. There is simply no room for anything bulky. And what better place to look for thin than the insulation that started it all: Thinsulate insulation.

The same goes for warmth. Feet, being furthest from your body's center of heat, need insulation more than any other part of your body. With nearly twice the warmth of foam, felt or pile, Thinsulate insulation is just what feet need to stay warm and comfortable.

Which brings up the third big benefit of Thinsulate insulation: It doesn't bog boots down with weight. In fact, it's one of the lightest synthetic insulations on the market.

So durable the warmth keeps springing back
Boots are a unique part of the outdoor wardrobe because of the pounding they take. Each step exerts tremendous pressure on every boot component. This harsh treatment is especially hard on insulation, which can become compacted. And since all insulations work by trapping microscopic pockets of air in their fibers, compacted insulations lose their effectiveness.

The qualities that make Thinsulate™ Insulation ideal for boots are its compression resistance and durability. It can take a beating and still retain those little pockets of air so important for keeping feet warm. Not even water can dampen its warmth.

For years, many outdoor enthusiasts have chosen Thinsulate insulation over foam and felt based on one characteristic alone: its ability to retain warmth when wet. Thinsulate insulation absorbs less than 1% of its weight in water, so it keeps feet warm even in damp conditions.

For the ultimate in cold-weather performance
No one wants their feet to get cold. But for some outdoor enthusiasts, keeping feet warm is a matter of survival. For them, there's Thinsulate™ Ultra Insulation Extreme Performance for Footwear.

Recommended amount of Thinsulate insulation for footwear - 200 gram* Thinsulate™ Insulation for Footwear is recommended for cool conditions or for high activity levels where wearer generates/builds a lot of body heat through activity.
Work boots
Hiking boots
Rubber bottom boots
Hunting boots
Snowboard boots
Alpine ski boots
Athletic winter boots

400 gram* Thinsulate™ Ultra Insulation for Footwear is recommended for cold conditions or for moderate activity levels where wearer generates/builds a normal amount of body heat through activity.
Rubber bottom boots
Hiking boots
PAC boots
Hunting boots
Work boots

600 gram* Thinsulate™ Ultra Insulation for Footwear is recommended for very cold conditions or for very light activity levels where wearer generates/builds little body heat through activity.
Hiking boots
Work boots
Hunting boots
PAC boots

800 gram* Thinsulate™ Ultra Insulation for Footwear is recommended for extremely cold conditions or for extremely light activity levels where wearer generates/builds minimal body heat through activity.
Hunting boots
PAC boots
Work boots

* Grams per square meter of insulation

Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe www.michiganshoe.com , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI

Unwanted Cold Feet

No one wants their feet to get cold. But for some outdoor enthusiasts, keeping feet warm is a matter of survival. One of the most difficult parts of your body to keep warm is your feet. That’s because they’re the farthest, physically, from your body’s warm core. Here are some tips for keeping your feet as warm and comfortable as possible.

Make sure your boots fit properly; Select a style of boot suited to the activity you’ll be using it for (Example – hunting boots, hiking boots, etc.); Try on several boots with the appropriate sock system until you’re sure of a good fit.

Sizing - When trying on cold weather boots, start with a half-size larger than your street shoes. Try the boots on with the sock system you’re planning to wear. Slide your foot all the way forward into the boot. You should be able to slide one finger behind your heel. Change sizes if necessary until its right. Move your foot into a comfortable position and close the boot. It should be snug without pressure points but still have plenty of wiggle room for your toes. Walk around (including uphill and downhill) until you’re comfortable. Your heel should not move more than a half-inch, nor should your toes touch the front of the boot.

Socks - Generally, two pairs of socks are the best bet: A thin liner sock that’s wickable, like polypropylene. A thick outer wool sock, the sock system should not overcrowd the boot, making it too constricted for good circulation. Start with warm, dry feet and footwear. Keep your socks and boots inside your car (not the trunk) on the way to your destination. If your feet sweat, put on fresh, dry socks just before going out, or anytime after a period of activity prior to resting

Keep your feet dry - Consider purchasing waterproof boots. Use foot powder or anti perspirant on your feet. Use waterproof, breathable socks or boot liners. Keep your body warm and your metabolism high. Your body core and head must be kept warm to allow for circulation to other body parts. If your feet sweat, put on fresh, dry socks just before going out, or anytime after a period of activity prior to resting
If either your body core or head are too cold, your body will shut down the heating of extremities in order to keep the core and head warm, causing your feet and hands to get cold. Eating calorie-rich foods and drinking lots of liquids will keep your body energized.

Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe, MichiganShoe.com , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work Clothing, Redford MI

Getting the Right Fit

No matter how expensive your shoes are or how much technology your shoes contain, they will not do their job unless they fit correctly. Here are some useful tips that can help assure you are getting the proper fit. Most footwear is specifically designed for men and women, with entirely separate lasts for each. “Last” is a piece of wood, metal or synthetic material roughly following the shape of the foot and acting as a form on which a shoe or boot is made. It is the foundation or “vital center” of all footwear. For women you should always take into account that; women feet are narrower than men’s at the ball, Achilles tendon and heel. Women have proportionally longer toes than men. Women have a higher instep, arch and women’s calf muscles are longer.

When trying on shoes put on all the equipment worn or used on your feet such as socks, braces and orthoses.

Make sure there is adequate space in the toe box. Leave 1/4 of an inch between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. This is about the width of your finger or thumb. This measurement should only be done while you are standing, since the foot elongates with weight on it. If this measurement is done while sitting, there is a good chance that the shoe will not fit properly when you go out for your first stroll or run.

Check the heel counter to make sure your heel won't slide and is rigid enough to provide stability.

Try on shoes in the afternoon or evening to insure you have enough room in your shoes as your feet expand through the course of the day.

Walk, run and jump in the shoes. They should be comfortable right away, not needing to be "broken in." General rule of thumb: If it hurts in the store, it will hurt at home. Also the shoes that need to be broken in tend to actually reverse the role by causing the owners feet to "break in" to the shoe.

Having a basic understanding of what to look for and how to obtain a proper fit will help you sort through the numerous options available. So, take your time and make sure you are getting the right fit.

Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe www.MichiganShoe.com , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI

SAFETY FOOTWEAR IMPACT RATINGS

There are two classifications for impact ratings--Classes 50 and 75:

I/50 resists 50 pounds dropped from 12 inches.
I/75 resists 50 pounds dropped from 18 inches.

What do these figures mean? I/75 rated toe-caps must pass a foot-pound test by dropping a 50-pound steel weight from a height of 18 inches. This is measured in foot-pounds and will protect a worker from an impact of 75 foot-pounds.

There are two classifications for compression ratings--also Classes 50 and 75. The shoes are tested to withstand compression at a set poundage before the toe-cap begins to crack or collapse:


C/50 = 1,750 pounds
C/75 = 2,500 pounds

The ASTM standard F2413-05 dropped a previous Class 30 rating from both impact and compression ratings. The standard also excludes "hang-on" or "strap-on" toe-caps, which are added on to the shoe. The toe-cap must be an integral, built-in part of the footwear. Also, the standard has removed static dissipative (SD) type II shoes, leaving only type I.

Read the Label
Here is a sample of a label you might find in safety footwear:
ASTM F2413-05
M I/75 C/75
PR
That code breaks down in this manner:
ASTM F2413-05 is the ASTM standard.
M I/75 C/75:
M or F identifies the gender (M = Male or F = Female)
I/75 is the impact resistance rating.
C/75 is the compression resistance rating.

That list of ASTM initials reminds us that feet in the workplace can be injured in a great variety of ways, so many factors need to be taken into consideration. Slip resistance, for example, is a factor employers need to ponder. Are employees in danger of slipping on slick surfaces? OSHA requirements for fire brigades, in 1910.156(e)(2)(ii), call for Class 75 footwear that is water-resistant for at least 5inches above the bottom of the heel and equipped with slip-resistant outer soles.

Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe http://wwwmichiganshoe.com/, Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI

WHEN IS A SHOE NOT JUST A SHOE…

The workplace can be dangerous in many different professions. Each job offers its own hazards, which is why safety shoes and clothing is so important. There is a wide variety of safety shoes and clothing available to handle specific needs for each job. Safety clothing can include everything from fire retardant suits down to simple eye-protection. Take, for example, safety footwear. Any company that assumes all safety footwear is the same would be doing its workers a serious disservice, opening the door to potential injuries. Many important factors need to be considered when selecting the right protection for workers' feet.

How do you know what kind of safety footwear to buy? Let's look into what the OSHA has to say on the matter, because compliance with OSHA standards is a high priority for the business community. OSHA standards provide guidelines for the selection of all personal protective equipment, which includes safety footwear.
According to OSHA's 29 CFR, Part 1910, General Industry regulations, Subpart I, Personal Protective Equipment, 1910.132 General Requirements, you must assess the workplace to determine whether hazards are present, or are likely to be present, that make the use of PPE necessary. In the case of safety footwear, the nature of those hazards will help in selecting a product with the right protective properties.

In 1910.136, OSHA identifies some of the hazards that need to be addressed when selecting safety footwear: "The employer shall ensure that each affected employee uses safety footwear when working in areas where there is a danger of foot injuries due to falling or rolling objects, or objects piercing the sole, and where such employee's feet are exposed to electrical hazards."

A partial list of occupations for which foot protection should be considered would include assemblers, carpenters, drywall installers and lathe operators, electricians, freight handlers, gardeners and groundskeepers, laborers, machinists, mechanics and repairers, packers, plumbers and pipefitters, punch and stamping press operators, sawyers, shipping and receiving clerks, stock clerks, structural metal workers, timber cutting and logging workers, warehouse laborers, and welders.

Electrostatic dissipative shoes, which reduce the accumulation of static electricity, should be worn around sensitive computer equipment so the machines do not receive static shocks. To prevent potentially dangerous sparks, they should also be worn where an explosive atmosphere, such as flammable vapors, may be present.

Safety footwear with puncture protection would be required where sharp objects, such as nails, screws, or scrap metal, could be stepped on by employees. Also, workers in settings that include garbage, such as landfills, should wear shoes with puncture protection to prevent the possibility of being stuck by infected needles.

Safety footwear for workers climbing ladders also should have defined heels and solid shanks, a supportive component of shoes, to stop the feet from bending downward on the rung.

Remember, OSHA regulations have been created and are enforced to protect workers from harm. When regulations are followed and workers are supplied with the right PPE, multiple benefits result: fewer accidents, lower overhead costs, lower insurance premiums and worker's compensation expenses, and, ultimately, greater profits for the company.

Best of all, workers can go home at night happy and free of injuries, enabling them to look forward to another great day of workplace safety and productivity.
Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe www.MichiganShoe.com , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI

NURSING – HARD ON YOUR FEET

The demand for nurses has been on the rise for several years, spurred by various economic and demographic factors. And demand for nurses is likely to continue to increase. Candidates for nursing jobs that are in highest demand include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nurse assistants, and certified medical assistants.

According to the US Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for registered nurses is expected to increase 23% between 2006 and 2016. Here is a breakdown of The Bureau's estimated increase percentage per nurse employer type:

• 39% - Offices of physicians
• 39% - Home health care services
• 34% - Outpatient care centers, except mental health and substance abuse
• 27% - Employment services
• 22% - General medical and surgical hospitals, public and private
• 20% - Nursing care facilities

The typical shift at a hospital for a nurse is 12 hours. Nurses are on their feet for most of those 12 hours. If a nurse is not properly outfitted with the correct work shoes, their feet will cause them a lot of discomfort and thus rendering them unable to do their work properly. Through time, improper shoes can lead to other physical problems. That is why the right shoe, proper fitting and overall foot care is very important to this profession. Here are just a few foot care facts that everyone should know.

• It's neglect and a lack of awareness of proper care - including ill fitting shoes - that bring on problems.
  
• 3 out of 4 Americans experience serious foot problems in their lifetime.
  
• The foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments and 19 muscles.
  
• 1/4 of all the bones in the human body are down in your feet. When these bones are out of alignment, so is the rest of the body.
  
• Women have about four times as many foot problems as men. High heels are partly to blame.
  
• Walking is the best exercise for your feet. It also contributes to your general health by improving circulation, contributing to weight control, and promoting all-around well being.
  
• Your feet mirror your general health. Conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, nerve and circulatory disorders can show their initial symptoms in the feet - so foot ailments can be your first sign of more serious medical problems.
  
• There are 250,000 sweat glands in a pair of feet. Sweat glands in the feet excrete as much as a half-pint of moisture a day.
  
• The two feet may be different sizes. Buy nursing shoes for the larger one.
  
• The average person takes 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day, which adds up to about 115,000 miles over a lifetime. That's enough to go around the circumference of the earth four times.

So for all you nurses out there, remember that your feet are very important to your profession and comfort and support are a must for those long shifts.

Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe http://www.michiganshoe.com/ , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work Clothing, Redford MI

The History Channel's look at shoe construction featuring Aetrex Shoes

The History Channel newest series “The Works” began airing in August 2008. The series is hosted by Daniel H. Wilson, a robotics expert, author and editor. “The Works” finds fascinating facts and history about everyday items to reveal the incredibly complex systems behind the creation of those items that we take for granted. The series dissects a wide range of products including power tools, beer, and sneakers.

The sneaker episode offered an intriguing look at the evolution of sneakers and their huge impact on athletic performance, fashion and pop culture. The episode covered the complicated construction process in making a shoe and interesting history. One interesting fact is that sneakers were so named because they were quite to walk in and a person could sneak around the house without being heard.

Three companies were profiled on this episode - Brookes, Nike and Aetrex. Aetrex, founded in 1946, is a $60 million dollar family-owned corporation. The company is recognized as the global leader in pedorthic footwear and foot orthotics. The company has the iStep, a patented foot scanning technology, to analyze your feet and how you step. The iStep helps consumers identify their arch type, shoe size and pressure points. This makes them the leading provider of customizable footwear solutions.

The segment followed host Daniel Wilson as he was sized on the iStep machine. Wilson notes in the episode that Aetrex has “sneaker fitting down to a science” and he adds that he “had never felt more comfortable”.

The average person walks 10,000 steps a day. During a lifetime that tallies up to 115,000 miles or four times around the planet. That’s a lot of walking and a lot of impact on your feet, knees, hips and total body. As we age we begin to feel those affects. Wearing Aetrex customizable footwear will make each step you take more comfortable.

Catch the next episode of “The Works” on the History Channel. This show airs Thursday nights at 10:00pm EST.


Written By: Mike Girolami, President of Michigan Industrial Shoe www.MichiganShoe.com , Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI