Safety footwear isn’t one-size-fits-all. The EN ISO 20345 standard categorizes shoes based on the hazards they guard against—from falling objects to chemical spills. Selecting the right category ensures compliance and reduces injury risks. Here’s how to align safety shoe features with your workplace demands.
Understanding EN ISO 20345: The Global Benchmark for Safety Footwear
EN ISO 20345 is the international standard defining protective footwear requirements. Unlike general work shoes (EN ISO 20347), safety shoes under this norm must include a 200-joule impact-resistant toe cap—equivalent to a 20kg object dropped from 1 meter.
Core Protective Features and Testing Protocols
- Impact Resistance: All EN ISO 20345 shoes withstand 200J toe-cap impacts.
- Slip Resistance: Tested on greased and smooth surfaces (e.g., ceramic tile).
- Additional Protections: Marks like P (puncture-resistant midsole), E (energy-absorbing heel), and WRU (water-resistant upper) indicate specialized defenses.
Example: A construction worker needs P-rated soles to prevent nail punctures, while a lab technician prioritizes WRU for liquid spills.
Decoding Safety Shoe Categories: S1, S2, S3, and Beyond
EN ISO 20345 classifies shoes into categories with escalating protections:
| Category | Key Protections | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| S1 | Toe cap, anti-static, energy-absorbing heel | Light manufacturing, warehouses |
| S1P | S1 + puncture-resistant midsole | Recycling, roofing (sharp debris) |
| S2 | S1 + water-resistant upper (≥60 mins) | Food processing, outdoor work |
| S3 | S2 + puncture-resistant midsole, lug sole | Construction, mining |
| S4/S5 | Waterproof (S4) or full protection (S5) | Chemical plants, oil rigs |
Did you know? S3 shoes combine water resistance, puncture protection, and slip resistance—making them versatile for high-risk sites.
Industry Applications: From Construction to Chemical Handling
1. Construction & Heavy Industry (S3/S5)
- Hazards: Falling tools, uneven terrain, metal shards.
- Solution: Shoes with S3 ratings (puncture-proof, slip-resistant) or S5 for extreme conditions.
2. Laboratories & Healthcare (S1/S2)
- Hazards: Chemical spills, static electricity.
- Solution: S1P (anti-static, puncture-resistant) or S2 (water-resistant) for labs.
3. Oil & Gas (S5)
- Hazards: Hydrocarbons, slippery surfaces.
- Solution: S5 with FO (fuel-oil-resistant soles) and E (shock absorption).
Ensuring Compliance: Steps for Employers and Workers
-
Conduct a Risk Assessment
Identify hazards like heavy loads (requiring S1P) or wet floors (needing S2). -
Verify Certification Marks
Check for EN ISO 20345 labels and subclass codes (e.g., P, WRU). -
Prioritize Fit and Comfort
Even S5 shoes fail if workers avoid wearing them. Look for ergonomic designs. -
Train Teams on Maintenance
Waterproofing degrades over time; replace worn soles promptly.
Upgrade Your Safety Footwear with 3515
Whether you’re a distributor stocking S3 boots for construction or a brand needing custom S1P shoes, 3515 delivers certified, bulk-order solutions. Our range meets every EN ISO 20345 category—combining protection, durability, and compliance.
Ready to equip your workforce? Partner with 3515 for safety footwear that matches your operational risks.
