Slip-Resistant Shoes Key Terms

Learn about slip-resistant shoe key terms

The slip resistant shoe can be purchased in several styles for different jobs. Whether you are a nurse, machine operator, electrician or waiter, there is a slip resistant shoe designed to meet your needs.

It's important to find the right tread depth and outsole pattern that meets your working needs. Get a basic understanding of the key terms associated with slip resistant shoes and you'll be on your way to finding the right fit.

 

Tread depth

Tread depth in a slip resistant shoe is one of the most important characteristics to consider. Tread depth refers to the depth of the tread on the under side of the shoe measured from the sole to the edge of the slip resistant material. Similarly to wheels, the tread depth will wear and become ineffective.
Try: Read the explanation of tread depth at Occupational Heath and Safety. The website also gives proper depth measurements and explains how tread affects slip resistant shoes.

Overshoe

The overshoe is simply a secondary shoe placed over your usual work shoe. The cover-up shoe can be created to be slip-resistant so you don't have to worry about finding a special shoe that is slip resistant.
Try: Review the description and an example of a slip-resistant overshoe at SafeShoes.

Outsole pattern

The term outsole pattern means simply the design of the tread on the underside of the shoe. This pattern of tread is what creates the slip resistant aspect of any non-skid shoe. Patterns create barriers and help grip the ground.
Try: Read the definition of outsole pattern at Shoes for Crews. The website also explains how different outsole patterns work in different work environments.

Brungraber Mark-II test

The Brungraber Mark-II test is a safety test designed to test the resistance a material, such as that on a slip resistant shoe, has against slipping in different situations. Many slip resistant shoes have a Brungraber Mark-II rating that explains how they fared in the test.
Try: SafetyBiz explains how the Brungraber test was designed and how it is used to test slip resistance.

Fall indemnity program

A fall indemnity program is a program offered by some manufacturers of slip-resistant work shoes to protect employers in the case of accidental slipping that occurred with the use of the shoes. Programs provide an insurance-like policy to cover any injuries an employee has from slipping. A manufacturer uses a fall indemnity program as a guarantee of their product's effectiveness.
Try: The fall indemnity program is explained at the SRMax website.

Steel toe

A steel toe shoe is one with a steel insert in the toe area of the shoe to prevent injury to the foot. A worker can drop a heavy object on his foot without worrying about crushing his toes because the steel holds strong and protects the foot. These shoes are available in slip resistant form as well.
Try: Review the example and definition of the steel toe shoe at BlueCollarWorkwear. The supplier explains the benefit of this shoe and sells the steel toe shoe and others.

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