Feet a casualty of the workplace

Feet are a casualty of the workplace, according to President of the Australasian Podiatry Council Kevan Wright.

Mr Wright said that National Occupational Health and Safety Commission figures showed that feet were taking a beating at work.   He said that lower limb injuries including those to feet & toes were responsible for nearly 20% of all workplace claims.

“The statistics on injuries are just the tip of the iceberg.  Research into workplace foot health shows a high level of unrecognised foot problems and huge problems arising from ill-fitting safety boots and inappropriate footwear. In one study, 91% of workers surveyed reported foot problems,” Mr Wright said.

During National Foot Health Week (7-13 October), the Australasian Podiatry Council is focusing on feet at work to draw attention to foot problems in the workplace (offices, shops, factories, restaurants, hospitals, warehouses, schools, etc.) and to promote foot health in the working community.

“Workplaces need to consult with podiatrists to gauge the true level of foot problems and to develop strategies to minimize the costs to business of foot injuries and foot problems.   On average, a serious foot injury results in an absence of seven weeks from work and costs $5000.  But the true cost of unrecognised workplace foot problems is hidden,” Mr Wright said.

“The majority of workplace foot injuries are caused by feet being hit by moving objects and by falls, slips and trips.  This signifies that work practices need to be audited to protect feet.    Where legislation exists people should be wearing protective footwear. But quality, design and fit are important, not all safety shoes on the market are equal.  Employers should seek professional advice from a podiatrist when choosing and fitting shoes for their staff,” he said.

Other workplace foot health facts:

• The manufacturing industry is where most foot injuries occur.
• Being a labourer is the most risky occupation for feet.
• Fractures, crush injuries, and sprains and strains are the most common foot injuries.