Introduction
Safety shoes are an essential piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) for many workers. They help to protect feet from injury from a variety of hazards, including cuts, punctures, and falls. However, even the best safety shoes can eventually wear out, and one of the most common signs of wear is a crumbling or disintegrating sole.
There are a number of reasons why safety shoe soles can disintegrate. One of the most common causes is hydrolysis. Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction that occurs when water molecules break down the bonds in the polyurethane (PU) material that is used in many safety shoe soles. This reaction can be accelerated by exposure to moisture, heat, and UV light.
Another common cause of sole disintegration is wear and tear. The soles of safety shoes are constantly exposed to the elements, and they can eventually become cracked, worn, and brittle. This can make them more likely to crumble or disintegrate.
How to Prevent Sole Disintegration
Wearing Safety Shoes Regularly
In addition to storing safety shoes in a dry, cool place, it is also important to wear them regularly. If safety shoes are kept idle on the shelf for a few months in a row, the soles can become brittle and more likely to disintegrate.
NBR Soles
In addition to PU soles, there are also safety shoes available with soles made from Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR). NBR soles are more resistant to hydrolysis than PU soles, and they are also more resistant to chemicals. However, NBR soles are heavier than PU soles.
✔ PU Soles
- Pros: Lightweight, comfortable, and affordable.
- Cons: Not as resistant to hydrolysis or chemicals as NBR soles.
✔ NBR Soles
- Pros: More resistant to hydrolysis and chemicals than PU soles.
- Cons: Heavier and less comfortable than PU soles.
The best type of safety shoe sole for you will depend on your individual needs and requirements. If you are working in an environment where you are exposed to moisture or chemicals, then an NBR sole may be a better choice. If you are looking for a lightweight and comfortable shoe, then a PU sole may be a better option.
Safetyware Group offers a variety of safety shoes with both PU and NBR soles. We can help you choose the right pair of shoes for your needs.
Safetyware Group
Safetyware Group is the largest safety footwear manufacturer in Malaysia. We have been in business for over 20 years, and we produce a wide range of safety shoes and boots. Our products are made with high-quality materials and construction, and we offer a variety of features to meet the needs of different industries.
We have an annual production capacity of over 1 million pairs of safety shoes and boots. We are also the leading PPE and safety equipment manufacturer with 3 factories in Penang, Malaysia, and strong market presence in Asia Pacific.
Conclusion
By following the tips in this blog post, you can help to extend the life of your safety shoes and prevent sole disintegration. If you are looking for a high-quality pair of safety shoes, please contact Safetyware Group today. We would be happy to help you find the perfect pair of shoes for your needs.
