A Legacy Built on Hard Work

john bul logo 90 years

In the rugged landscapes of New Zealand, where hard work is a way of life, there’s a brand of footwear that has been a steadfast companion for generations: John Bull boots.

For 90 years, these boots have gone beyond protecting the feet of hard-working New Zealanders. In short, they have come to embody the resilience and determination of the very people who wear them.

From Humble Beginnings to National Icon

In 1934, the Daisley brothers, having honed their craft in Auckland, opened their boot-making factory on Khyber Pass Road. Recognising the need for footwear that could resist the demanding conditions of New Zealand’s rural landscape. The Daisley brothers set out to create boots built to last.
Their dedication to quality and craftsmanship quickly earned them a reputation for excellence. Soon, John Bull boots were being worn across the country.

Supplying Boots for World War II and Beyond

The company’s commitment went beyond the civilian sector. John Bull was given the vital responsibility of providing boots to New Zealand’s armed forces during World War II. This responsibility solidified their reputation for reliability and durability, qualities that would continue to define the brand for decades to come.

Building the Nation, One Step at a Time

As New Zealand joined a period of significant growth and development, John Bull remained a constant companion to the nation’s workforce. After the war, the government opened land for returning servicemen. These servicemen, now facing the challenge of working the land, as a result, heavily relied on John Bull boots for their durability. The company also played a crucial role in supporting major civil projects, supplying boots for the construction of power stations and tunnels that helped shape New Zealand’s infrastructure.


While keeping its core values firmly in place, John Bull continued to innovate. The Daisley brothers, along with later generations of leaders, recognised the need to adapt. Consequently, as New Zealand grew and evolved, so did the demands placed on footwear. In response, they introduced innovative features like steel-toe caps and moulded soles, ensuring their boots remained not only durable but also increasingly safe and comfortable.

john bull crow 90 years limited edition


WEAR YOUR OWN PIECE OF JOHN BULL HISTORY.

Celebrating 90 Years with the Limited Edition Crow Boot

To celebrate this significant milestone, John Bull subsequently presented a limited-edition version of their iconic Crow style. This timeless classic gets a golden upgrade, featuring intricate gold stitching and unique anniversary motifs. The limited-edition Crow boot is not just a pair of boots; it’s a chance to own a piece of John Bull’s rich history.

John Bull Crow 90th Limited Edition

Order Now and Be Part of History

Don’t miss your chance to be among the first to own this piece of Kiwi heritage.

See more | John Bull Crow Limited Edition
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Sunglasses have become more than just a fashion statement; they play a crucial role in protecting our eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Polarized lenses have gained popularity when it comes to choosing sunglasses. But are polarized sunglasses really better?

What Are Polarized Sunglasses?

Polarized sunglasses are specialized eyewear designed to reduce glare and improve vision in bright conditions. They are particularly effective at filtering out the intense glare produced by reflective surfaces like water, snow, and road surfaces.

How Do Polarized Sunglasses Work?

The magic behind polarized sunglasses lies in their lenses. These lenses have a special filter that blocks horizontal light waves, which are responsible for creating glare. When these horizontal waves are filtered out, you experience reduced glare, resulting in clearer vision.

Benefits of Polarized Sunglasses

Reduced Glare

One of the primary benefits of polarized sunglasses is their ability to significantly reduce glare. Whether you’re driving, fishing, or participating in outdoor sports, reduced glare allows you to see more clearly and comfortably.

Enhanced Visibility

By eliminating glare, polarized sunglasses enhance contrast and depth perception. This is especially important for activities like boating, skiing, and golfing, where precise vision can make all the difference.

UV Protection

In addition to glare reduction, polarized sunglasses offer UV protection. They shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, helping to prevent long-term eye damage and conditions such as cataracts.

Who Should Consider Polarized Sunglasses?

Polarized sunglasses are suitable for a wide range of individuals. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, whether for work or leisure, polarized sunglasses can significantly improve your visual experience. This includes outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, drivers, and those living in sunny climates.

Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses

Lens Types

Polarized sunglasses have distinct advantages over non-polarized ones. While both offer UV protection, non-polarized sunglasses may not provide the same level of glare reduction. It’s essential to choose the right lens type for your specific needs.

Cost Considerations

The price difference between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses can be a deciding factor. Polarized sunglasses tend to be slightly more expensive due to their specialized lenses. However, the benefits they offer may outweigh the cost difference for many.

Activities and Polarization

The choice between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses also depends on your activities. If you’re involved in activities with high glare exposure, such as fishing or skiing, polarized sunglasses are the better choice. Non-polarized sunglasses may be sufficient for casual use.

Common Misconceptions

Colour Perception

Some people believe that polarized sunglasses affect colour perception. In reality, they mainly enhance colours and contrast by reducing glare, providing a more vivid and natural view of the world.

Polarization and Screens

There is a common misconception that polarized sunglasses interfere with electronic screens, making them difficult to read. While this can happen with some screens, it’s not a universal issue and can be managed by adjusting the angle of your glasses.

mens wearing polarised glasses

How to Choose the Right Polarized Sunglasses

Choosing the right pair of polarized sunglasses involves considering factors such as frame style, lens colour, and brand quality. The ideal sunglasses should not only provide eye protection but also suit your personal style and activities.

Frame Style

Select a frame style that complements your face shape and suits your fashion preferences. Sunglasses are not just about protection; they’re a fashion accessory too.

Lens Color

Different lens colours are suitable for various conditions. For instance, grey lenses are versatile and offer natural colour perception, while brown lenses enhance contrast. Consider your specific needs when choosing a lens colour.

Brand and Quality

Invest in a reputable brand known for the quality of its polarized sunglasses. Quality sunglasses are more durable, provide better protection, and often come with warranties.

Polarized sunglasses offer numerous benefits, making them a worthwhile investment for anyone who spends time outdoors. They reduce glare, enhance visibility, and protect your eyes from UV radiation. However, it’s essential to choose the right type of sunglasses based on your activities and preferences. When used appropriately, polarized sunglasses can greatly improve your outdoor experience, providing both style and practicality. So, are polarized sunglasses better? For many, the answer is a resounding yes. Make sure to select the perfect pair for your needs and enjoy the world in all its vibrant, glare-free glory.

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Redefining Safety Footwear with Innovation and Comfort

The New Standard of Steel Cap Boots

Blundstone proudly presents the RotoFlex Steel range – a collection of robust and advanced safety boots that not only offer superior protection but also set a new benchmark in protective footwear. Featuring a diverse selection of 10 steel cap boots, including four fresh styles, the RotoFlex range guarantees that you’re fully equipped with the right tools for any task ahead. Moreover, these boots not only prioritize safety but also provide exceptional comfort throughout your workday.

But what does Blundstone bring in comparison to the previous XRF line?
Click here to check the comparison sheet. And more…

Overarching Comfort System: SoftCell

Blundstone’s SoftCell technology revolutionizes comfort and safety. It brings stability, balance, and mobility, ultimately reducing the risk of trips, slips, and falls. Wearers experience increased stability, balance, reduced ankle slip within the boot, and reduced fatigue, all contributing to enhanced comfort and maneuverability.

Cushioning Footbed: AirCell

The AirCell footbed is a feat of engineering, offering anti-bacterial, washable, and breathable material. It features specialized zoning that activates ventilation, moisture control, and cushioning comfort. The pressure cells expertly cushion and actively pump air beneath the arch and toes, effectively addressing sweat buildup. With this innovative design, the footbed is not only exceptionally comfortable but also maintains optimal hygiene standards.

Energy Foam to Combat Impact: Infinergy

Introducing Infinergy® E-TPU, the super-elastic energy foam incorporated into the RotoFlex range. This foam provides a softly cushioned support system that significantly reduces the impact of every single step taken. This innovation proves to be particularly crucial for professionals who spend extended periods on their feet, offering unparalleled shock absorption and comfort that goes beyond the ordinary.

Steel Toe Cap Protection: FortaShield

Safety is paramount in any work environment, and Blundstone’s FortaShield technology provides an exceptional level of protection. Moreover, the broad-fitting, cut-resistant steel toe caps are designed to withstand significant impacts and compressions. Additionally, they allow for comfortable movement, ensuring both safety and flexibility. The technology has been rigorously tested to resist a 200 joule impact. Furthermore, it maintains its shape under immense pressure, guaranteeing its reliability even in the toughest conditions.

New Blundstone RotoFlex GripTek

RotoFlex GripTek HD

Designed for protection, traction, and support, this TPU sole is the ideal companion for demanding tasks. Designed to withstand temperatures of up to 140˚C, oil, acid, and organic fats, the GripTek HD is built to withstand even the harshest conditions. Plus, its exceptional resistance to microbes and water damage ensures your boots remain ready for action.

Blundstone Rotoflex 8060 Wheat Zip Sided Boots
Blundstone Rotoflex 8060 Wheat Zip Sided Boots
Blundstone Rotoflex 8063 Stone Zip Sided Boots
Rotoflex 8063 Stone Zip Sided Boots
Blundstone Rotoflex 8066 Saddle Brown Zip Sided

RotoFlex GripTek XHD

Maximize safety with the highest slip safety rating thanks to cutting-edge engineering. Just like its sibling, the GripTek XHD boasts heat resistance up to 300˚C, along with resilience against oil, acid, organic fats, microbes, and water damage. Trust in this sole’s unbeatable performance, especially in slippery environments.

Blundstone Rotoflex 9060 Zip Sided Wheat Boots
Blundstone Rotoflex 9060 Zip Sided Wheat Boots
Blundstone Womans Boots Rotoflex Zip Sided 9961 Black
Rotoflex 9061 Zip Sided Black Boots
Blundstone Rotoflex 9063 Zip Sided Stone Boots
Blundstone Rotoflex 9063 Zip Sided Stone Boots
Blundstone Rotoflex 9011 Lace Up Black Boots
Blundstone Rotoflex 9011 Lace Up Black Boots
Womans Boots Rotoflex Zip Sided 9961 Black
Blundstone Rotoflex 9001 Black Slip On Boots
Blundstone Rotoflex 9001 Black Slip On Boots

RotoFlex GripTek MAX

When extreme conditions call for footwear that goes the extra mile, the GripTek MAX with its Vibram™ sole made of Vibram TC4+ is your go-to choice. Industry leaders bring the best engineering and componentry to create a sole with the highest slip rating. Heat resistant up to a staggering 300˚C and boasting fuel oil resistance, excellent abrasion, and cut resistance, this advanced rubber outsole is your ultimate partner in protection, traction, and support.

Blundstone Rotoflex 9090 Wheat Zip Sided Boots

Blundstone’s RotoFlex range sets a new standard for biomechanical design in work and safety boots. These boots aren’t just about protection; they’re a blend of innovation, comfort, and functionality that cater to the needs of professionals across various industries. With features like SoftCell technology, AirCell footbeds, Infinergy foam, FortaShield steel toe caps, and Griptek outsoles, Blundstone’s RotoFlex range is a testament to the brand’s dedication to excellence. For those who demand the best from their safety footwear, the RotoFlex range is ready to deliver unparalleled performance, all day and every day.

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Insoles are the main component of work boots which should deserve more attention. Caring for your work boots requires regular footbed replacement to enhance foot support, comfort, and flexibility. Continuous usage diminishes the effectiveness of insoles, leading to foot fatigue and joint pain.

Insoles typically need replacement every 6 to 9 months, especially for heavy-duty work. However, you should change them when they become compressed, torn, or emit unpleasant odours.

But is it really worth the price for your needs? And When should you replace your Work Boots Insole?

How Often Should You Change Insoles in Work Boots?

As a general rule, replace your work boot’s footbed every six to nine months with high-quality ones. If you wear them daily without breaks, change them every three to six months. However, the frequency of use and the nature of work can affect the insole’s lifespan.

Even the most comfortable work boots may require a change, indicated by certain telltale signs. Here are some common indicators to consider.

Don’t ignore the signs!

Wear And Tear

When you notice wear or cracks in your insoles, change them immediately. Using damaged footbeds with your work boots compromises their protective capabilities and can impact your productivity. Moreover, torn insoles can cause friction and harm your foot’s skin.

Compressed

Are you currently using compressed or flat insoles? Continuous use can cause insoles to become compressed, leading to reduced ankle and arch support. These worn-out inserts result in foot discomfort, fatigue, and, eventually, joint and back pain. If you find that your footbeds are not providing the same level of support or comfort as they used to, it is time to replace them.

Fading

If you notice that the colour of your insoles is fading, the logo is starting to peel off, or the heel areas are becoming stiff, it is time to replace them. Footbeds are made of materials that break down over time, and these signs indicate that they no longer provide the support and cushioning they once did.

Unpleasant Odor

Do your work boot insoles smell awful at the end of the day? This is because they absorb sweat, which can lead to smelly odours. The moisture trapped in your work boots creates a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can cause fungal infections on your feet or toe gaps. It is important to change the footbed to avoid such issues.

Insole Footbed John Bull
Insole Footbed John Bull
Insole footbed grey
Insole footbed grey
Rotoflex bottom and top on footbed
Blundstone Rotoflex Insole Aircell Footbed

Why New Insoles Matter

Consider using multiple pairs of insoles to extend the lifespan and maximize the benefits of your work boots. You can even repurpose the extra pairs for different uses.

Increasing The Lifespan Of Shoes

Replacing the insoles of your work boots enhances their wearability, providing comfort and support to your feet. If you have a favourite pair of work boots that look good and offer great comfort, replace the factory footbed regularly to maintain their longevity.

Posture correction

A proper footbed can help prevent pain in your knees, shins, and back.
Improper gait and poor posture can put stress on these areas, but insoles can help distribute pressure evenly throughout your feet. This ensures that your feet hit the ground at the right angle, which can help prevent pain and injury.

Life Changes

When life circumstances change, consider replacing your insoles for better support. A new footbed can offer improved comfort during pregnancy, surgery, or when dealing with medical issues. Additionally, changing the footbed can provide added comfort if your physical activities intensify.

After understanding the recommended frequency for changing insoles in work boots, make it a habit to replace them regularly. This will keep you energetic and confident during work. Don’t hesitate to change the footbed to keep your feet happy and healthy when you start noticing signs. 

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Tinted glasses are sunglasses or eyeglasses with UV-blocking lenses coated in various tints like blue, green, brown, yellow etc. They serve both as a fashion statement and protection against harmful UV rays, enhancing contrast, contours and more. There are two types of coat patterns:

  • Solid-tinted lenses: which have one colour applied to the entire lens
  • Gradient lenses: transition from a plain colour at the top to a clear lens at the bottom of the frame

Unlike photochromic lenses, gradient lenses maintain a gradual coating without changing based on sunlight.

Tinted glasses serve different purposes depending on your lifestyle and activities.  Learn more about their properties and make the right choice:

Green-tinted sunglasses

Green lenses are considered the most protective type, as this tint blocks blue light and UV rays, reducing eye strain and glare in bright environments. Dark green glasses are ideal for sunny days, making them perfect for outdoor activities in spring and summer. Green lenses offer better colour accuracy and contrast compared to brown and grey lenses. They also excel at eliminating distracting glare, making them a great choice for those who are bothered by glare. These tinted lenses are great for:

  • Perfect for any outdoor activity, in rain or shine
  • Transmits all colours evenly
  • Good for general-purpose use
Ugly Fish Chisel RS6002 green
Ugly Fish Chisel RS6002 – Green lens
Ugly Fish Sparkie RS545RX GREEN
Ugly Fish Sparkie RS545RX – Green lens

Blue/Purple-tinted sunglasses

Blue and purple lenses offer numerous benefits and have a strong appeal. Enhancing colour perception and improving object contours, blue tints make it easier to differentiate between objects. Wearing blue lens tints enables you to distinguish various objects effortlessly.

Additionally, blue/purple lenses have a calming effect on the eyes, providing a tranquil filter for viewing your surroundings. This quality helps alleviate eye strain during extended wear and adds serenity to your perspective.

Especially useful in snowy or icy conditions, blue lens glasses effectively reduce glare, making them perfect for winter sports and other outdoor activities in colder months. Moreover, blue and purple lenses excel in low-visibility conditions like fog, mist, or snow. Furthermore, they complement almost any skin tone, ensuring a fashionable look. The features of these tinted eyeglasses are ideal for:

  • Reduces glare
  • Helps to see contours
  • Improves colour perception
Ugly Fish Slingshot RS2730 – Blue lens

Red/Pink-tinted sunglasses

Red and Pink sunglass lenses have the ability to reduce eye strain and improve visual clarity. These lenses are particularly beneficial for driving, enhancing road visibility by boosting contrast. They also enhance colour sensitivity, which is advantageous in occupations where vision is crucial. In addition, pink-tinted lenses offer protection against harmful UV rays during outdoor activities.

  • Enhances visual depth
  • Provides good road visibility
  • Comforting to the eyes
  • Helps adjust contract
  • Good in most weather conditions, especially in the snow
Ugly Fish Tradie RS5001 – Red lens

Dark amber, copper, or brown-tinted sunglasses

Dark amber, copper, or brown tints actively reduce glare and effectively block blue light, improving vision on cloudy days. Additionally, they enhance contrast and visual acuity while providing UV protection. These lens colours prove beneficial for judging distance in hazy and foggy conditions and are particularly advantageous against green and blue backgrounds, such as grass and sky.

  • Enhances contrast
  • This tint is invaluable for people with myopia
  • Great for variable conditions
  • Perfect for driving, golfing and fishing
Ugly Fish Flex RSU5507

Grey and black-tinted sunglasses

Grey and black lenses are an excellent choice for everyday use, suitable for bright and overcast days. These coloured lenses ensure accurate colour perception while effectively reducing eyestrain by providing significant light reduction.

  • Perfect for general, all-purpose use,
  • True colour perception 
  • Dark enough to provide overall protection 
  • Great for variable weather on sunny or overcast days 
Pink Transparent Frame Twister RS242S – Smoke
Ugly Fish Bullet Semi Functional RS303 – Smoke
Commando RS1414 – Smoke
Ugly Fish Lynx Pink Frame RS454 – Smoke
Black Frame Twister RS242 – Smoke
Ugly Fish Lynx Brown Frame RS454 – Smoke
Ugly Fish Positive Seal Flare RS5959 – Smoke
Woodgrain Frame Twister RS242 – Smoke

Yellow-tinted glasses

Yellow-tinted safety glasses prove valuable in low light conditions, enhancing depth and contrast. They are particularly beneficial on foggy and overcast days. These glasses feature lenses that block blue light, which has a shorter wavelength and can disrupt focus. Blue light scatters more easily, causing the eyes to work harder and leading to headaches and migraines. By using yellow tint lenses, you can improve vision clarity and reduce eye fatigue.

  • Hiking in shaded areas
  • Mountain biking
  • Indoor use
  • Driving
  • Perfect for skiing, mountain biking, hunting, aviation, baseball, and tennis
  • Provides greater contrast at dawn or dusk and in fog, haze, and other low-light conditions
Ugly Fish Flare RS5959
Ugly Fish Vented Positive Seal Flare RS5959 – Yellow
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In jobs where standing is done for a large portion of the day, fatigue can set in quickly. Fatigue leads to lower productivity and a higher likelihood of mistakes. It can also reduce employee morale. So how can you combat fatigue in the workplace? One method is by using anti-fatigue mats.

What are anti-fatigue mats?

Workplace anti-fatigue mats are floor mats that help to relieve stress on the body. They also improve blood circulation to help reduce body tiredness.

These mats are ideal for workplaces where employees stand and work in a small area. Some examples are line cooks, behind-the-counter retail workers, and dining hosts.

The Benefits of Anti Fatigue Mats in the Workplace

How anti-fatigue mats work

The benefits of anti-fatigue mats include productivity, health and wellbeing.

Anti-fatigue mats work by improving circulation around the body, creating micro-movements in the leg muscles. This also helps pump blood back to the heart and reduces other stress and fatigue including hip and back problems.

Compared to a hard floor, the shock absorption of anti-fatigue mats reduces compression of the spinal cord and improves posture as well as blood circulation.

What’s the best way to setup anti-fatigue mats?

The workplace should be set up so that the worker is able to move around frequently.

The right footwear is important too. Footwear should provide arch and heel support and cushioning while being comfortable to the wearer.

Anti-fatigue mats in a kitchen

What are the other Benefits of Anti-Fatigue Mats?

Along with helping with tiredness, anti-fatigue mats promote improved posture, reduce circulatory problems, reduce joint and muscle pain, and increase productivity.

Improved Posture

Standing up puts lots of pressure on the joints due to the vertical weight of standing. Changing your standing position means that your weight can be spread evenly between both feet.

Reduce circulatory problems

Blood flows more freely around the body when you are standing up rather than sitting down. When the body isn’t moving the heart has to work harder to pump blood around the whole body.

However, using an anti-fatigue mat helps muscles and veins to relax, reducing the risk of health problems.

Reduce joint and muscle pain

Standing on hard floors for hours often leads to the stiffing of joints and shoulder and neck pain.

Pain in these areas tends to result in tension headaches affecting the ability to work.

When using anti-fatigue mats the cushioning beneath your feet will mean there is less pressure on the body. This means less chance of headaches and overall joint pain too.

Increase productivity

If you are having various aches and pains every day this can effect productivity. When standing we use 20% more energy and tire quickly. Fatigue can set in after just 90 minutes of standing.

With anti-fatigue mats combating these issues, you should see improvements in productivity, health and wellbeing.

Other Benefits

There are many other benefits of anti-fatigue mats. Check out Standing Smart Research by Professor Redha Taiar to find out more.

Anti-fatigue mat at a workstation

Mats and other products to combat

Protecting your workforce ensuring that they are safe and healthy should be a priority. Along with mats, we have other items at Safety1st to help combat fatigue. In office environments, blue blocker glasses can reduce eye strain. And proper gloves can minimise hand fatigue.

Reducing fatigue has benefits for everybody. Anti-fatigue mats give your workers a solid start alone. And when combined with proper work design and footwear, they help improve working conditions resulting in better productivity, less tiredness, and fewer bodily problems.

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Choosing the Right Safety Footwear for your employees regularly who work in hazardous environments where proper foot protection is a must. Safety 1st NZ distributes safety footwear suitable for virtually any work environment. We have footwear from many leading suppliers, including FXD, John Bull, Blundstone, Grisport, Bata and others. The right safety footwear can help pervent injuries.

But how do you choose the right safety footwear?

Risk assessments for Safety Footwear

When deciding which is the best safety footwear for the job think about the task and environment.

  • Is there a risk of falling objects?
  • Is there a risk of sharp objects penetrating the sole of the shoe?
  • Are there slippery surfaces in the workplace?
  • Is there a need for cut protection (i.e. chainsaw operation)?
  • Are acids/ alkalis/ chemicals present in the workplace?
  • Is heel or ankle support required?
  • Is there a risk of twisting or spraining the ankle?
  • Are works at risk of contact with molten metal?
  • Are employees working in very wet or damp conditions?
  • Is there a risk of contact with temperature extremes?
  • Is the employee on their feet for long hours?
  • Do you need it to coincide with other PPE?

The Right Safety Footwear Focuses on protection from primary risks

Concentrate on the real risks – those that are most likely to cause harm.

Ask your employees/colleagues what they think the hazards are – they may notice things that are not obvious to you and may have some good ideas on how to control the risks.

Review the risks regularly in case circumstances in the workplace change.

Safety footwears main aim is protecting the toes and base of the feet; toe protectors are a minimum requirement in many industries. However you may need more than this.

Think about the job that you do. The right safety footwear for you depends on your job. For example, a person who is working on a building site/demolition workplace would be unwise to buy a safety product that did not have a mid-sole to protect against underfoot nail penetration. A person working in a petrol station or any place of work where there is a high risk of flammability should buy boots with antistatic/electrical-resistance properties.

Get the right size and fit and don’t compromise on comfort

Comfortable safety boots make all the difference – you’re going to spend a large chunk of the day with them on your feet! The right fit can make all the difference!

Never buy second-hand footwear

There’s no room for debate here. Second hand blackwoods safety footwear are not the best option as you do not know the history. Any sign of damage to the toe cap or mid-sole it is best to replace the item.

Think about aftercare to increase the lifespan of your safety footwear

It’s no secret that caring for your work boots increases the life of them. In order to maintain safety footwear correctly, it is particularly important to air and dry them well after each use – leather shoes will take at least 24 to 48 hours to dry out completely. It is therefore advisable to use a second pair of safety shoes. Due to these longer regeneration phases, this also extends the respective useful life of the shoes.

It is best not to dry wet shoes using a heater, solid fuel burner or shoe dryer. Leather shoes in particular will become hard and brittle as a result, which will cause the shoe to wear out prematurely. Dry i a well ventilated space.

Undo your laces fully and stuff your wet shoes with paper. Leave them to dry slowly and, if necessary, replace the wet paper until the shoes are completely dry.

Remove heavy soiling from the safety footwear before drying using a brush and lukewarm water. Since dirt can have a severe impact on their breathability, affecting the climate within the shoe. After cleaning, we recommend treating the shoes with standard care products.

Choose the right safety footwear for your work

Choosing the right safety footwear for your work can have a huge impact on day to day life, especially if something was to go horribly wrong. Taking preventative measures whilst working in a hazardous environment could be the difference between severe injury and being able to continue as normal. Take a look at our footwear to see what we have available and find a good fit for your job.

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Safety signs are important in the workplace, both for workers and for visitors. Depending on the job, some safety signs are required to be posted at certain spots. Beyond the requirements, it can be a good idea to have a few safety signs in the workplace beyond the minimum.

In this article, we’ll cover some of the rules and regulations about safety signs and how to get signs that comply with these standards.

General safety sign requirements

Signs are required when the area presents a risk to safety. For physical safety, these can be anything from falling objects to needing hi-vis to requirements for PPE. Some have specific rules around usage, while others, like wet floor signs, are recommended.

When you’re unsure, it’s better to overdo safety signage than underestimate what you need. Not putting up signs like wet floor signs could cause someone to get hurt. That can also lead to legal troubles since they can claim the area didn’t have any warning signs up.

Finding when a sign is required in NZ isn’t always straightforward. If you’re unsure, a good place to start is from the HSWA Identifying, assessing and managing work risks.

There are specific requirements for hazardous substances and the signage required when those hazards on our site.

Hazardous substance sign requirements

Hazardous substances have their own requirements because of the risks attached to them. According to worksafe, “signs are required when you have hazardous substances exceeding specified quantities”.

A hazardous substance is defined as a substance that is flammable, explosive, toxic, oxidising, corrosive, or toxic to the environment. These signs need to have an EXPLOSIVE warning for explosive risks or HAZCHEM for any other hazard along with a symbol of the specific hazards on site. All of these hazards have specific definitions and required wording on the sign, with additional restrictions and signs needed for explosives.

For the full guide to hazardous substances and signage, take a look at the guide Working safety with hazardous substances.

Helpful, non-required signs

While some signs are mandatory to have on a work site and must be placed at specific places, others are helpful but aren’t required. Many signs that are commonly used are available pre-made from safety supply shops. But you can also get completely custom signs for your workplace!

Some good examples of non-required signs include:

  • Parking rules. If you need to enforce parking rules, these are helpful to have in the lot. In order for your rules to be enforced–like towing unauthorised vehicles–the lot needs a sign in an easily-visible area with the parking rules.
  • Signs for complicated procedures. If you have a process or a piece of machinery that takes several steps, a sign is a great way to lay out these steps. Plus it means there’s no excuse for doing steps in the wrong order!
  • Informative signs. Use these to show where the toilet is, if you have a door that needs to keep closed, to ring a bell if no one is at the counter, and so on.

Where can I get signage for my workplace?

There are plenty of safety shops in New Zealand that can help you get the signage you need. Some specialise in specific types of signs while others provide a large variety. And many will create custom signs for you too.

At Safety1st, we have a large range of signage, standard and custom made. If you’re looking to get some for your workplace, check out our signage range now.

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