Effect of work boot shaft stiffness and sole flexibility on boot clearance and shank muscle activity when walking on simulated coal mining surfaces: implications for reducing trip risk.

Underground coal miners experience a high incidence of work-related lower limb injuries, with tripping a main cause. This study systematically investigated two boot design features that are likely to influence a miner's risk of tripping. To reduce trip risk, coal miners should avoid a boot with a stiff shaft.