Safety shoes under the EN ISO 20345 standard are categorized into several ratings, each designed to meet specific workplace hazards and environments. The primary classifications include S1, S1P, S2, S3, S4, and S5, with each offering progressively enhanced protection. These ratings ensure compliance with safety requirements such as toe protection, slip resistance, and water resistance, among others. Understanding these classifications helps purchasers select the right footwear for their specific industrial or occupational needs.
Key Points Explained:
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EN ISO 20345 Overview
- This is the international standard for safety footwear, ensuring all shoes meet minimum safety requirements.
- Key mandatory features include a 200-joule impact-resistant toe cap, slip-resistant soles, and a closed heel.
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Safety Shoe Ratings & Their Features
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S1: Basic protection for light industrial environments. Includes:
- Toe cap protection (200J)
- Anti-static properties (A)
- Energy absorption in the heel (E)
- Oil-resistant soles (Fo)
- S1P: Adds a puncture-resistant midsole (P) to S1 features.
- S2: Builds on S1 with water-resistant uppers (Wru) for wet environments.
- S3: Combines S2 features with a puncture-resistant midsole (P) and enhanced slip resistance.
- S4: Fully waterproof (leak-proof) with a rubber or polymer upper but lacks puncture resistance unless marked S5.
- S5: The highest protection level, combining S4’s waterproofing with a puncture-resistant midsole (P).
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S1: Basic protection for light industrial environments. Includes:
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Additional Markings & Their Meanings
- A (Anti-static): Reduces static electricity buildup.
- Fo (Oil-resistant soles): Resists degradation from hydrocarbons.
- E (Heel energy absorption): Cushions impact.
- P (Puncture resistance): Protects against sharp objects.
- Wru (Water-resistant upper): Prevents water ingress.
- Wr (Water-resistant shoes): For prolonged wet conditions.
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Choosing the Right Rating
- Light industrial work (dry): S1 or S1P.
- Wet environments: S2 or S3.
- Hazardous sites (sharp objects, heavy water exposure): S3, S4, or S5.
- Fully waterproof needs: S4 or S5.
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Why Compliance Matters
- Ensures worker safety against common hazards like crushing, slipping, or electric shocks.
- Helps organizations meet occupational health regulations.
By aligning shoe ratings with workplace risks, purchasers can optimize safety and cost-efficiency. For example, S5 shoes might be overkill for a dry warehouse but essential for construction sites with mud and debris. Always cross-check markings like "P" or "Wru" to confirm specific protections.
Summary Table:
| Rating | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| S1 | Toe cap (200J), anti-static (A), heel energy absorption (E), oil-resistant soles (Fo) | Light industrial (dry) |
| S1P | S1 + puncture-resistant midsole (P) | Light industrial with sharp objects |
| S2 | S1 + water-resistant upper (Wru) | Wet environments |
| S3 | S2 + puncture-resistant midsole (P) + enhanced slip resistance | Hazardous sites (sharp objects, water) |
| S4 | Fully waterproof (leak-proof), rubber/polymer upper | Prolonged wet conditions |
| S5 | S4 + puncture-resistant midsole (P) | Extreme conditions (mud, debris, water) |
Ensure your workforce is protected with the right safety footwear. As a leading manufacturer, 3515 offers a comprehensive range of EN ISO 20345-compliant shoes for distributors, brand owners, and bulk buyers. Our products are designed to meet diverse industrial needs, from light-duty to extreme environments. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and get a tailored solution!
