With more options than ever before, safety footwear is anything but a one-size-fits-all purchase. As you evaluate your footwear program, there are many things to think about, such as job-site hazards, seasonal weather exposure and material durability.

OSHA ruled in 2008 that employers are required to pay for their employees’ PPE. OSHA does not specify the method that employers must use to pay for PPE. Many employers maintain a stock of PPE and hand it out as employees need it. Other employers use allowances or reimbursement systems. Any of these methods are acceptable, as long as employees receive the PPE at no cost.