EN ISO 20345 compliant safety shoes are categorized into several classes (SB, SBP, S1, S1P, S2, S3, S4, and S5), each designed to meet specific workplace safety requirements. These categories build upon a base level of protection (200-joule toe impact resistance, anti-slip soles, and closed back) while adding specialized features like anti-static properties, water resistance, or penetration-resistant soles. The classifications help purchasers select footwear tailored to hazards such as electrical risks, wet environments, or sharp objects. For example, S3 shoes combine waterproofing with midsole penetration resistance, while S5 offers leak-proof construction with added sole protection. Understanding these categories ensures workers have appropriate foot protection without over-specifying features.
Key Points Explained:
-
Base Requirements for All EN ISO 20345 Shoes
Every compliant shoe must include:- 200-joule toe cap impact protection
- Anti-slip soles tested on greasy/smooth surfaces
- Closed heel design
These form the foundation for all higher categories.
-
Category Breakdown
- SB (Basic): Meets only the minimum requirements above.
- S1: Adds anti-static (A), energy-absorbing heel (E), and oil-resistant soles (Fo).
- S1P: S1 features plus penetration-resistant (P) sole.
- S2: S1 + water-resistant upper (Wru) for wet environments like food processing.
- S3: S2 + penetration-resistant midsole, ideal for construction or outdoor shoes needs.
- S4: Rubber/polymer waterproof construction (like Wellington boots) with S1 features.
- S5: S4 + penetration-resistant sole, offering maximum protection for heavy industrial use.
-
Specialized Markings
Additional symbols denote specific protections:- WR: Water resistance for prolonged exposure
- CR: Cut-resistant materials
- HI: Insulation against heat
-
Selection Guidance
- Prioritize penetration resistance (P) for sharp debris (e.g., S3 for metalwork).
- Choose S4/S5 for waterproofing in chemical labs or flood-prone areas.
- Anti-static (A) is critical for electronics manufacturing.
This tiered system allows precise matching of footwear to workplace hazards while avoiding unnecessary costs for unused features. For purchasers, verifying the correct category markings ensures compliance and worker safety.
Summary Table:
| Category | Key Features | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| SB | Basic 200J toe cap, anti-slip sole, closed heel | Minimal hazard environments |
| S1 | SB + anti-static (A), energy-absorbing heel (E), oil-resistant sole (Fo) | General industrial use |
| S1P | S1 + penetration-resistant sole (P) | Sharp debris areas (e.g., construction) |
| S2 | S1 + water-resistant upper (Wru) | Wet environments (food processing, cleaning) |
| S3 | S2 + penetration-resistant midsole | Outdoor/construction with sharp/wet hazards |
| S4 | Waterproof rubber/polymer (S1 features) | Chemical labs, flood-prone zones |
| S5 | S4 + penetration-resistant sole | Heavy industrial/maximum protection |
Specialized Markings:
- WR: Water resistance
- CR: Cut resistance
- HI: Heat insulation
Ensure your team has the right safety footwear tailored to their specific workplace risks. As a large-scale manufacturer, 3515 Footwear produces a comprehensive range of EN ISO 20345-compliant shoes and boots for distributors, brand owners, and bulk clients. Our products combine rigorous safety standards with comfort and durability, covering all categories from basic SB to high-protection S5. Whether you need waterproof construction for wet environments, anti-static properties for electronics work, or puncture-resistant soles for construction sites, we can customize solutions to match your exact requirements. Contact our experts today to discuss bulk orders or request samples—let’s keep your workforce safe without compromising on cost or functionality.
