Safety shoes under the EN ISO 20345 standard are classified into distinct categories (SB, S1, S2, S3, S4, S5) based on their protective features, with each level adding or enhancing safeguards like toe protection, slip resistance, waterproofing, and puncture resistance. These classifications ensure footwear meets specific workplace hazards, from basic industrial environments to high-risk conditions involving chemicals or heavy machinery. The standard mandates a 200-joule impact resistance at the toe and anti-slip soles as baseline requirements, while advanced categories integrate specialized protections such as anti-static properties or hydrocarbon-resistant materials.
Key Points Explained:
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Core Classifications (SB to S5)
- SB (Basic Safety): Minimal compliance with toe protection (200J impact resistance) and anti-slip soles. No additional features.
- S1: Adds anti-static properties (A), energy absorption in heel/sole (E), and oil-resistant soles (Fo).
- S1P: Includes S1 features plus penetration-resistant midsoles (P).
- S2: Enhances S1 with waterproof uppers (Wru) for wet environments.
- S3: Combines S2’s waterproofing with puncture-resistant soles (P) and often deeper treads.
- S4/S5: Rubber/polymer construction for full waterproofing (S4), with S5 adding puncture resistance.
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Mandatory Requirements
- All classifications must meet:
- 200J toe protection (simulates a 20kg object dropped from 1m).
- Anti-slip soles (tested on greased surfaces).
- Closed heel design for stability.
- All classifications must meet:
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Specialized Protections
- A (Anti-static): Prevents static electricity buildup in sensitive environments (e.g., electronics manufacturing).
- Fo (Oil-resistant soles): Critical for industries with slippery hydrocarbon spills.
- P (Penetration resistance): Steel or composite midsoles guard against sharp objects.
- Wru/Wr (Water resistance): Ranges from upper waterproofing (Wru) to full shoe resistance (Wr).
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Choosing the Right safe shoe
- Match classifications to hazards:
- S1/S1P: General workshops with minor electrical risks.
- S3: Construction sites with wet conditions and debris.
- S5: Chemical plants requiring waterproofing and puncture protection.
- Match classifications to hazards:
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Beyond EN ISO 20345
- Some shoes include optional markings (e.g., HI for heat insulation or CI for cold resistance), addressing extreme temperatures.
By understanding these classifications, purchasers can select footwear that balances compliance, worker safety, and cost-efficiency for specific operational needs.
Summary Table:
| Classification | Key Features | Ideal Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| SB | Basic toe protection (200J), anti-slip soles | Minimal-risk industrial environments |
| S1/S1P | Anti-static (A), energy absorption (E), oil-resistant soles (Fo); S1P adds puncture resistance (P) | Workshops with minor electrical or slip hazards |
| S2 | S1 features + waterproof uppers (Wru) | Wet environments (e.g., food processing) |
| S3 | S2 + puncture-resistant soles (P), deeper treads | Construction, forestry with debris and moisture |
| S4/S5 | Full waterproofing (S4); S5 adds puncture resistance | Chemical plants, extreme wet conditions |
| Optional Markings | HI (heat insulation), CI (cold resistance) | High/low-temperature workplaces |
Ensure your workforce is equipped with the right safety footwear for their specific hazards. As a large-scale manufacturer, 3515 produces a comprehensive range of EN ISO 20345-compliant safety shoes and boots tailored for distributors, brand owners, and bulk clients. Our footwear combines rigorous safety standards with durability and comfort, whether your needs include anti-static properties, waterproofing, or puncture resistance.
Why choose 3515?
- Custom solutions: We adapt designs to meet specialized workplace requirements (e.g., chemical resistance, extreme temperatures).
- Scalable production: From small batches to high-volume orders, we ensure consistent quality and timely delivery.
- Expert guidance: Our team helps you navigate EN ISO 20345 classifications to select optimal footwear.
Contact us today to discuss your safety shoe needs or request samples. Protect your team with footwear engineered for their safety—and your peace of mind.
