Correct Footwear for Security Duties
Slips, trips and falls account for over 30% of workplace injuries in the UK (HSE). Many of these could be prevented with one simple measure: wearing the right footwear. As a security officer, you are often on your feet for long hours, indoors and outdoors, in all kinds of weather and flooring conditions. Choosing footwear that’s safe, comfortable, and compliant is not just about comfort — it’s about protecting yourself, your colleagues, and the public.
UK guidance, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, SIA standards of professional conduct, and BSI/NSI workplace safety expectations, all stress that employers and employees must take practical steps to reduce risk. For security officers, that begins with what’s on your feet.
What Makes “Correct” Footwear?
When assessing footwear for your duties, consider the following:
Slip resistance: Soles should provide good grip on wet, polished, or uneven floors. Look for shoes tested to recognised slip-resistant standards (BSI-approved).
Comfort and support: Long shifts require cushioned insoles and ankle support to reduce fatigue and prevent strain injuries.
Durability: Cheap shoes wear down quickly and become unsafe. Invest in footwear designed for security or industrial work.
Weather resistance: Outdoor duties in rain, snow, or icy conditions require waterproof materials and soles that won’t harden or lose grip.
Professional appearance: Footwear must also meet uniform standards, presenting a smart and professional image while still being functional.
Key consideration: The SIA expects officers to be “fit for duty.” Wearing unsafe or unsuitable footwear could be viewed as a failure of professional responsibility.
Hidden Risks of the Wrong Footwear
It’s not just slips and trips you need to worry about. Wearing the wrong shoes can lead to long-term health issues:
Poor arch support → back pain and knee strain after long shifts.
Tight or ill-fitting shoes → blisters, sores, and distraction on duty.
Thin soles → increased fatigue, making it harder to stay alert on patrol.
Example:
Officer Ali wears cheap, flat-soled shoes for a 12-hour shift. By the end, his back is aching so badly that he’s focusing more on the pain than on what’s happening around him. He nearly misses a confrontation at the entrance because he’s too uncomfortable to react quickly.
Tip: Always think of footwear as an investment in your performance. Spending a little more on the right shoes saves you from health problems — and keeps you sharp on patrol.
Real-World Example
Imagine you are patrolling a shopping centre entrance on a rainy Saturday.
You’re wearing standard dress shoes with smooth soles. The wet tiled floor becomes slippery, and you skid, nearly falling in front of visitors. Not only are you at risk, but you also undermine confidence in the security presence.
Instead, you’re wearing smart black, slip-resistant boots. You remain steady on your feet, confidently monitoring the crowd, and set the right example to the public and your colleagues.
The difference? Correct footwear prevented a potential accident — protecting both you and the site’s reputation.
Tips for Security Officers
Choose footwear with certified slip-resistant soles (look for “SRC” ratings where possible).
Break in new shoes before long shifts to avoid blisters and distraction.
Keep footwear clean and dry — mud, grease, or worn soles reduce grip.
Replace footwear as soon as soles wear smooth; worn shoes are a hidden hazard.
Carry seasonal alternatives if working outdoors (e.g. insulated boots for icy weather).
Footwear Care: Small Actions, Big Difference
Even the best boots lose effectiveness if they’re not looked after. Poorly maintained shoes quickly become just as risky as unsuitable ones.
Example:
Officer Sarah has high-quality, slip-resistant boots. But after months of use, the soles are worn smooth, and she never bothers cleaning the mud from the grip. One rainy day, she slips at the building entrance — proving that neglected footwear is no safer than cheap footwear.
Tips:
Clean soles regularly to restore grip.
Check for wear weekly — look at tread depth and heel stability.
Keep a spare pair ready in your locker for emergencies.
Dry shoes properly; damp footwear weakens material and reduces life span.
Remember: well-cared-for footwear keeps you safe for longer and saves your employer money on replacements.
Consequences of Poor Footwear
For you: Risk of falls, fatigue, foot injuries, and even long-term back or joint issues. A fall while on duty could also raise questions about your professionalism.
For the business: Increased accident rates, claims, and insurance costs. Poor presentation from officers also affects reputation.
For compliance: Ignoring footwear safety can lead to breaches of health and safety expectations and could put your SIA licence at risk if deemed negligence.
Poor vs Good Practice
| Poor Practice | Good Practice |
|---|---|
| Wearing smooth-soled dress shoes on patrol. | Wearing slip-resistant, professional safety boots. |
| Ignoring worn soles because the shoes “still feel fine.” | Replacing shoes once grip is visibly reduced. |
| Choosing appearance over safety. | Choosing footwear that balances a professional look + safety features. |
Scenario for Practice
You’re working a night shift at an office complex. The car park is icy, and a delivery driver slips just outside the entrance. You notice two of your colleagues wearing casual trainers instead of safety footwear.
What actions should you take to reduce risks for yourself and others?
How would you handle the situation with colleagues who are not wearing correct footwear?
How would you log and report unsafe practices to ensure compliance?
Step Up for Safety
Your footwear is more than just part of your uniform — it is part of your safety toolkit. Every shift, every patrol, and every step relies on the foundation you stand on. The right pair doesn’t just make you look professional; it helps you stay balanced, comfortable, and alert so you can respond effectively to whatever the shift throws at you.
Think of your footwear as silent protection:
It absorbs long hours on your feet, reducing fatigue and strain.
It prevents slips, trips and falls on wet, uneven, or polished floors.
It supports your health by protecting your back, knees, and joints in the long run.
Example: An officer in poor-quality shoes might end a shift exhausted, distracted, or even injured. An officer in correct, well-maintained footwear stays confident, safe, and sharp — showing both the public and their employer that they are reliable and professional.
Stay safe, stay sharp, and step with confidence — because secure footing means secure protection. Every step you take is a step towards safety, professionalism, and trust.
