What should a worker wear as a safety precaution when dealing with heavy materials or tools?

Wearing steel-toed shoes or boots is essential for workers handling heavy materials or tools because they provide critical protection for the feet against impacts and compression. In environments where heavy objects could be dropped or where there is a risk of crushing injuries, steel-toed footwear is designed with reinforced toes that absorb and disperse the force of an impact. This type of footwear helps reduce the likelihood of severe injuries, such as broken bones or crushed toes, and is widely recognized as a standard safety measure in construction, manufacturing, and various industrial settings.

Other options may serve specific safety functions but do not address the primary concern of foot protection in this context. Rubber-soled shoes provide some grip but lack the protective features necessary for heavy lifting. A leather back brace may help support the back but does not protect the feet, and while a reflective vest enhances visibility, it is not useful in preventing foot injuries from heavy falling objects.