3.8 Foot Protection
As part of baseline laboratory attire, personnel working in or entering laboratory spaces, laboratory support areas, and other hazard-present environments must wear footwear that fully encloses the foot (toe, heel, and sides) and provides a barrier to liquids. Footwear must be selected to minimize the potential for exposure to chemical, biological, and physical hazards, including spills, splashes, and dropped objects.
Footwear that leaves any portion of the foot exposed (e.g., sandals, open-heeled shoes) or that is constructed of highly permeable materials (e.g., mesh or similar fabrics) is not appropriate for laboratory use.
Baseline laboratory footwear is considered part of laboratory attire. Additional, task-specific foot protection may be required as personal protective equipment (PPE) based on hazard assessment.
Examples of situations requiring additional foot protection include:
- Chemically resistant boots or shoe covers when working with large volumes of hazardous chemicals or where significant splash or spill potential exists
- Protective footwear (e.g., safety-toe shoes) when handling heavy equipment or materials with potential for impact injuries
Selection of footwear and any additional protective equipment should be based on the hazards present and the nature of the work being performed. For assistance in selecting appropriate protective footwear, contact EHS at askEHS@cornell.edu.