What are the different safety classes under the EN ISO 20345 standard? Choose the Right Protection for Your Workplace

The EN ISO 20345 standard classifies safety footwear into distinct safety classes (S1, S1P, S2, S3, S4, and S5), each designed to address specific workplace hazards. These classes build upon each other, with higher numbers indicating additional protective features. For example, S1 offers basic toe protection and slip resistance, while S5 includes waterproofing and midsole penetration resistance. Understanding these classifications helps purchasers select footwear tailored to their work environment’s risks, ensuring compliance and worker safety.

Key Points Explained:

1. EN ISO 20345 Safety Classes Overview
   The standard categorizes safety footwear into six primary classes (S1, S1P, S2, S3, S4, S5), with each class adding or enhancing protective features. This hierarchical system ensures clarity for purchasers evaluating workplace needs.

2. Detailed Breakdown of Each Class

   • S1: Baseline protection including:
     • Toe protection (200J impact resistance).
     • Slip-resistant soles.
     • Antistatic properties.
     • Oil-resistant outsoles.
     • Energy absorption in the heel.
   • S1P: Extends S1 with penetration resistance (e.g., steel midsoles).
   • S2: Adds waterproofing to S1 features, ideal for damp environments.
   • S3: Combines S2’s waterproofing with midsole penetration resistance and cleated outsoles for traction.
   • S4: Constructed with rubber or moulded polymer uppers, ensuring full waterproofing and leak-proof design (common in Wellington boots).
   • S5: Upgrades S4 with midsole penetration resistance, suitable for high-risk industrial settings.

3. Additional Notes on SB Class
   Some references mention SB (Basic) as a minimal class with only toe protection, though it’s less commonly cited in EN ISO 20345. Purchasers should verify if their regional standards include SB.

4. Selecting the Right Class for Workplace Needs

   • Low-risk environments (e.g., warehouses): S1 or S1P suffice.
   • Wet conditions: S2 or S3 for waterproofing.
   • Construction or heavy industry: S4/S5 for durability and puncture protection.
     Always cross-check markings (e.g., "S" codes) on footwear labels for compliance.

5. Why This Matters for Purchasers
   Matching the safety class to workplace hazards reduces injury risks and ensures regulatory compliance. For instance, electrical workers benefit from antistatic properties (S1+), while forestry crews need S5’s rugged design.

By understanding these classifications, buyers can make informed decisions, balancing safety requirements with cost-efficiency. Have you considered how your workplace’s specific hazards align with these tiers?

Summary Table:

Ensure your workforce is equipped with the right safety footwear tailored to your specific workplace hazards. As a large-scale manufacturer, 3515 produces a comprehensive range of EN ISO 20345-compliant footwear for distributors, brand owners, and bulk clients. Our production capabilities cover all types of safety shoes and boots, ensuring durability, comfort, and compliance with international standards.

Why choose us?

• Custom Solutions: Tailored designs to meet your exact safety and comfort requirements.
• Bulk Order Expertise: Streamlined processes for large-scale orders without compromising quality.
• Regulatory Assurance: All products meet EN ISO 20345 and other relevant standards.

Contact us today to discuss your safety footwear needs and receive a personalized quote. Let’s enhance workplace safety together!