Electrically Conductive Shoes: When to wear a shoe with this safety feature

Electrically conductive shoes should be used if it is necessary to minimize electrostatic charges in the shortest possible time, e.g. when handling explosives. Electrically conductive footwear should not be used if the risk of shock from any electrical apparatus or live parts has not been completely eliminated. In order to ensure that this footwear is conductive, it has been specified to have an upper limit of resistance of 100 kΩ in its new state.

During service, the electrical resistance of footwear made from conducting material can change significantly, due to flexing and contamination, and it is necessary to ensure that the product is capable of fulfilling its designed function of dissipating electrostatic charges during the whole of its life. Where necessary, the user is therefore recommended to establish an in-house test for electrical resistance and use it at regular intervals. This test and those mentioned below should be a routine part of the accident prevention program at the workplace.

If the footwear is worn in conditions where the soling material becomes contaminated with substances that can increase the electrical resistance of the footwear, wearers should always check the electrical properties of their footwear before entering a hazard area. Where conductive footwear is in use, the resistance of the flooring should be such that it does not invalidate the protection provided by the footwear.

In use, no insulating elements, with the exception of normal hose, should be introduced between the inner sole of the footwear and the foot of the wearer. If any insert is put between the inner sole and the foot, the combination footwear/insert should be checked for its electrical properties.

Thanks to Wolverine Worldwide, Inc for the use of their Protective Footwear Guide to share this information.