Posted By Danny Swygart I understand that Rugby Cement (or whatever they are called these days) have banned them from their sites. Recent HSE guidance in the waste / recycling sector recommends against their use due to the lack of ankle support and the number of injuries (including broken legs) sustained whilst wearing them.

Posted By Gavin There is not an industry wide ban, but individual companies may decide to ban them. Typically for lack of support.

Posted By Sean Fraser Rigger boots are effectively phased out of the offshore oil & gas sector. Reasoning was lack of support or ankle padding and to reduce the number of ankle injuries as others have stated above. Ankle boots are preferred although originally only lace-ups were recommended. Now, lace-ups with side zips are preferred as it aids removal in an emergency. However, I remember that when I started training with my Medics unit years ago we were told that squaddies were instructed to lace up horizontally rather than cross-over, as when the medic needed to remove the boot/s a sharp knife could be used to slice down the lace and it would "burst" open, allowing rapid removal. I have laced up all of my shoes in that way ever since 'cos it'll help any paramedic in a similar way.