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When working in the construction field, one of the most important elements a work boot should have is protection against potential hazards. Dangerous situations in the workplace can include anything between foot slips, cuts, burns, injuries from heavy falling objects, and specific work locations that are very endangered by snake bites.
Although venomous snake bites rarely result in death, a worker with a severe envenomation or allergy to snake venom can die due to a venomous bite. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), an estimated 7,000–8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes each year in the United States, with around 5 of them dying.
Therefore, in cases where snake bites endanger workers, it is crucial to take preventive measures and buy the right pair of boots.
What Are Rubber Boots Made Of?
Rubber boots, often known as gumboots or rain boots, have been around for a very long time. They’re made of either natural rubber or polyvinyl chloride; a halogenated polymer commonly referred to as PVC or vinyl. They’re waterproof, which comes in handy during the rainy season or when working in the dirt.
These boots are particularly warm on the inside due to the materials used, keeping the feet dry and warm. As a result, they’re worn in cooler temperatures, especially during rainy weather, though you need insulated rubber boots for colder, harsher conditions.
Rubber boots are preferred by people who work in mines, industries with dangerous chemicals, and farm work because they protect their feet from unforeseen accidents or mishaps by not allowing fluids to soak in.
However, a frequently asked question is, can a snake bite through rubber boots, and are rubber boots snake-proof? Keep reading to find out more!
Can A Snake Bite Through Rubber Boots?
You might not always notice a snake when you’re walking since they blend in with the ground. Because your legs and feet are the most exposed in this situation, you must choose boots to protect yourself from the snakes’ fangs penetrating the skin.
If you’re wondering whether your rubber boots will keep you safe from snake bites, the answer is yes!
Snake bites can be avoided by wearing rubber boots. Rubber boots are composed of a strong material that keeps the snake’s fangs from getting close to your skin.
However, venomous snakes are usually the most powerful fangs and the most intense bite. Here is when the rubber boots are doubted. Snakes don’t care whether they bite you on the skin or not. After the bite, they’ll retract and run away, but we cannot be sure if the fangs will get through the boots only, or they will be able to reach much further, touching your actual skin. In such cases, it is better not to risk it and purchase a pair of snake boots.
What Makes A Boot Snake-Proof?
As seen above, chances for a snake to bite through your rubber boots are low but never zero. However, if you work in a snake-prone environment, you don’t want to put your life in danger by leaving the situation to luck.
For such circumstances, snake-proof boots are the answer to your search for the best protection.
Snake-proof boots come with extra features to keep you safe. They’re usually 14 to 18 inches tall, and they contain plated snake bite prevention elements built into the boot shaft layers or as an overlay. Because snakes can attack lower on foot, toe boxes are also crucial, and a good pair of snake boots will keep your feet guarded with additional materials.
As a result, these boots will not only protect you from snake bites to the ankle, but they will also protect you if you step on a snake by accident. In addition, they’re powerful enough to cause pain to the snake when you kick it, causing it to go away.
Unlike conventional rubber boots, snake boots have a puncture-resistant layer comprised of leather, rubber, neoprene, polyurethane, synthetic weaving, Kevlar, and denim. In addition, a snake-guard liner composed of impenetrable material is used in some models.
Rubber Boots Vs. Snake Boots: What’s The Difference?
Snake Boots are explicitly made to protect against snakebites. However, some people dislike snake boots because they are uncomfortable. Consequently, there is an ongoing debate when it comes to choosing footwear that will protect you against snake bites.
Snake-proof boots are not the same as regular boots as they are resistant to punctures. In addition, the upper half is composed of more complex leather material, and the inner side of the boots has an impermeable liner. This ensures that even if a snake bites your leg, the fangs will never be able to penetrate the boot material and reach you.
These boots will provide you with additional flexibility as well as protection. Snake teeth will only pierce the shoe’s outer covering. Wearing these shoes allows you to concentrate on your job.
Rubber boots, on the other hand, feature a thin insole and outsole lining. These shoes will protect you against some types of snakes; however, they cannot protect you from the bite of a venomous snake with mighty fangs. As a result, if you are considering purchasing footwear that will save you against a snake bite, it would be an intelligent choice to take some extra steps for your security and buy a pair of snake boots.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, rubber boots are an excellent solution for a significant amount of obstacles workers can encounter in their workplace. Due to their specific material, rubber boots are very warm and waterproof, making them perfect for rainy and snowy days. They are ideal for working in mines and other industries dealing with dangerous chemicals since they are very protective and will not allow anything to penetrate.
In addition, rubber boots work as an excellent shield against the bite of many types of snakes, as their fangs won’t be able to reach your skin. However, it would be better to buy an actual pair of snake boots when dealing with more venomous snakes.
