SAFETY FOOTWEAR FOR PROTECTION OF RURAL WORKERS

Safety shoes to protect rural workers

Agribusiness moves an important part of the Brazilian economy, representing more than 20% of GDP (Gross Domestic Product). It encompasses agriculture and livestock activities, from production in the field, to arrival at the final consumer.

According to data from the Center for Advanced Studies in Applied Economics (Cepea), the employed population in agribusiness was approximately 18 million people in the first half of 2020.

SCRATCHS

Among the occupational risks to which these millions of rural workers are exposed are chemical, physical, biological, mechanical and ergonomic, which can cause accidents or occupational diseases.

Agribusiness encompasses numerous activities, ranging from cleaning and soil preparation to planting, crop management, harvesting, processing, transportation and storage, pest and disease control, seed and seedling treatment, to road construction and maintenance , fences, irrigation and drainage systems, among others.

For the execution of these services, several machines, tools, chemicals and flammable products are needed, among others, which, when not properly handled, can cause accidents or compromise the health of rural workers. The risks are even greater due to the increasing mechanization and automation of field activities.

STANDARDIZATION

In these scenarios, respecting the requirements of regulatory standards for Occupational Health and Safety, with an emphasis on NR 31 (Occupational Health and Safety in Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry, Forestry and Aquaculture), is of fundamental importance.

NR 31 establishes the OSH measures that must be implemented, the requirements necessary to provide good working conditions and protect the health and physical integrity of workers, as well as the obligations of the employer and the employee.

PPE

The use of Personal Protective Equipment is one of the mandatory measures in agribusiness. The PPE commonly used by rural workers are safety shoes, gloves, helmets against impacts, hats or other protections against sun, rain and other climatic situations, face shields against splashes and inhalation of chemicals, glasses against the action of chemicals, dust or pollen, hearing protectors for activities with noise and respirators with chemical, mechanical or combined filters.

Safety shoes for rural workers are different. Among them, there are waterproof and non-slip boots, for working on damp, muddy, soaked or wastes. Another option is boots with reinforced toecaps, for jobs where there is a danger of falling materials, heavy objects and animal treading.

Boots with reinforced soles are also available on the market, for situations where there is a risk of perforation, and boots with long boots or boots with leggings, where venomous animals are present. There are also waterproof and resistant safety shoes for working with chemicals, and closed shoes for other activities.

WARRANTY

Using the right PPE is essential to ensure the safety of rural workers. For this reason, it is important to consult a trusted supplier or an OSH professional to determine the main risks in agribusiness and what equipment is needed to prevent occupational diseases and accidents.

In addition to investing in correct and quality PPE, employees are responsible for raising awareness and training their employees on how to use, sanitize and store them properly.

Safetline has in its portfolio different models of professional footwear developed with all the requirements and certifications necessary for safe work in the rural sector.