It might be mandatory. OSHA might require that your workplace require its employees to wear steel-toed boots or safety shoes. To be compliant under OSHA standards, some manual labor industries require them to prevent or help injury while on the job. This is the case with industries where employees are exposed to hazards such as falling objects, objects that could pierce the sole of a shoe, or electrical hazards.

Foot injuries are a common workplace injury. Foot injuries come in all shapes and sizes, some of which include punctures, lacerations, crushing, sprains, and falls.