Foot protection requirements

• A. Steel toed boots
• B. Shank in some boots
• C. Both steel toe boots and shank in some boots
• D. No safety footwear required

Answer: (C)

Foot protection in structural collapse work must guard against both crushing injuries to the toes and injuries to the midfoot from sharp debris and uneven ground. A steel toe boot provides direct protection for the toes against impact and compression hazards. A shank adds rigidity under the midfoot, helping distribute load, improve stability, and resist puncture or damage from nails and sharp objects underfoot. In rescue footwear, you’ll commonly find boots that include toe protection and a midfoot shank, or at least a design that offers both protective features. Because the environment presents risks to both the toes and the midfoot, choosing boots that provide steel toe protection and a shank in some form best meets the protection needs.