Though the new Footwear Policy policy is still in draft and not yet open for public input, the Board is immediately enacting the provisions in response to Ministry of Labour orders.
So, effective immediately all employees must:
• Wear the appropriate footwear for the location and activity at all times.
• Wear shoes that are in good condition and provide a secure fit.
• Be aware of surroundings and conditions which may dictate the use of appropriate footwear and equipment.
• Report unsafe and unexpected surface/work conditions which may require isolation, repair or implementation of the steps listed within this document.
Due to the nature of a school environment, the increased presence of hazards within schools and the requirement to work outdoors, no open toed shoes should be worn. Soles should be non-skid and provide a snug fit.That is to say, footwear should be designed for the task being performed and must:
• provide adequate protection against injury to toes
• have soles that are soft rubber and non-skid
• fit snugly and fully enclose the foot
• be flat or maximum two and one-half inch (2.5") heel
The following are considered as inappropriate footwear:
• flip flops, beach shoes or slippers
• shoes with spiked heels
• platform shoes, soles greater than 1 inch
• molded/plastic “gummy” shoes or “Crocs”
• bare feet or socks
• “wheelies”, roller blades, roller skates, or similar type of footwear
Gym shoes worn must have soft rubber soles/non-skid soles and have a flat heel. Technical shops, the lab or chemical store rooms will require complete foot protection.
Employees working outside (recess/bus duty) during the winter are at a greater risk of falling. Footwear with soles resistant to slippery surfaces must be worn. Winter footwear should have flat soles with a raised pattern that grip the walking surface.
ETFO THAMES VALLEY OCCASIONAL TEACHERS' LOCAL
