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There is no forklift industry standard for safety footwear. Safety footwear has to be tailored to meet the hazard protection required for the facility/operation.

Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001 applies in New South Wales, Australia.

"15 Provision by an employer of personal protective equipment. (1) If measures taken by an employer under clause 11 (2) to control a risk include the use of personal protective equipment, the employer must provide each person at risk with personal protective equipment and ensure that: (a) the equipment provided is appropriate for the person and controls the risk for that person, and (b) the person is informed of any limitations of the equipment, and (c) the person is provided with the instruction and training necessary to ensure that the equipment controls the risk for the person, and (d) the equipment is properly maintained and is repaired or replaced as frequently as is necessary to control the risk for the person, and (e) the equipment is provided in a clean and hygienic condition to the person, and (f) the equipment is stored in a place provided by the employer for the purpose, and (g) areas in places of work where personal protective equipment must be used are clearly identified. Maximum penalty: Level 3. 2) In this clause, personal protective equipment includes any substance used to protect health (such as a sun protection cream).Note. Reference should also be made to any relevant Australian Standards relating to the provision and use of personal protective equipment."

The following relevant Australian Standard may be available for review through your local library: Australian Standard AS/NZS 2210.3-2000 Occupational Protective Footwear.

Google: CCOHS Footwear - Assessment Checklist. This checklist can help you determine your footwear needs.

Two key factors for forklift footwear are toe protection for toe hazards and slip resistant soles for increased protection while climbing on and off the equipment. Safety boots for increased ankle protection are recommended for rough terrain forklift operations. Sole protection is recommended where puncture hazards exist. Non-metallic toe/sole protection is recommended if employees must enter/exit through metal detection systems.

Workcover NSW can assist you in determining your safety footwear needs.