Most safety footwear guidance is written for large companies with dedicated safety departments. But most Indian industrial workers are employed by SMEs — the fabrication workshop, the textile unit, the auto components manufacturer. This guide is written specifically for SME owners and managers.
The Legal Picture for SMEs
The Factories Act, 1948 applies to any premises with 10 or more workers using power (or 20 without power). The requirement to provide appropriate PPE including safety footwear is not size-dependent. The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 has strengthened these requirements. Non-compliance creates compensation liability under the Employees’ Compensation Act, 2010 that can far exceed the cost of providing proper footwear.
A Simple 5-Step Procurement Process
- Identify your hazards — falling objects? Wet/chemical floors? Sharp debris? Oily surfaces?
- Choose your model — Hawk PU for most dry environments; Polo PVC for wet/chemical
- Know your sizes — measure workers’ feet; size on the larger side
- Calculate your order — workers per size + 10–15% for new joins and replacements
- Request a quotation — we respond within one business day
Common SME Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying on price alone — cheap uncertified shoes cost more per year and cause injuries
- Not replacing worn footwear — flat soles provide zero protection
- Letting workers buy their own — results in no documentation and inconsistent protection