Safety shoes are required for certain jobs for a few key reasons:

1. Foot protection – Safety shoes are designed to protect the feet from falling or rolling objects, sharp objects, and other potential hazards that could injure the feet. They often have steel or composite toe caps to guard the toes.

2. Slip resistance – The soles of safety shoes are made with slip-resistant materials to provide better traction and prevent slips and falls, which are a common cause of workplace injuries.

3. Electrical hazard protection – Some safety shoes are rated to provide protection against electrical hazards, insulating the wearer from live electrical circuits.

4. Comfort and support – Safety shoes are ergonomically designed to provide cushioning and support for the feet, ankles, and legs, reducing fatigue and strain from standing or walking for long periods.

Wearing the appropriate safety shoes can help prevent foot, ankle, and leg injuries in workplaces where there are risks of falling objects, sharp objects, slippery surfaces, or electrical hazards. Employers often require their workers to wear safety shoes as part of their personal protective equipment (PPE) to comply with health and safety regulations.