The EN ISO 20345 standard establishes rigorous performance benchmarks for safety boots to ensure optimal protection and comfort for workers in hazardous environments. Key criteria include impact resistance, slip resistance, ankle support, heat and water resistance, and insole durability. The standard also classifies safety footwear into categories (SB, S1-S5) with varying protection levels, and introduces specialized markings (A, Fo, E, P, Wru, Wr) for specific hazards. These benchmarks help manufacturers produce reliable safety footwear while enabling users to select appropriate boots for their work conditions.
Key Points Explained:
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Impact Resistance
- Drop Force: Boots must withstand a 200-joule impact at the front, protecting toes from falling objects.
- Ankle Support: Ensures stability and reduces injury risks from uneven surfaces or falls.
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Slip Resistance
- Boot soles are tested on both smooth and greasy surfaces to prevent workplace slips.
- Anti-slip properties are critical for industries like construction or food processing.
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Environmental Resistance
- Heat Resistance: Protects against hot surfaces (e.g., foundries or welding environments).
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Water Resistance:
- Wru: Prevents water penetration through the upper material.
- Wr: Ensures full shoe water resistance for wet conditions.
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Specialized Features
- A (Anti-static): Essential for explosive environments (e.g., chemical plants).
- Fo (Hydrocarbon-resistant soles): Resists fuel/oil degradation in automotive or oil industries.
- E (Energy Absorption): Cushions heels and soles to reduce fatigue.
- P (Perforation-resistant soles): Shields against sharp objects (e.g., nails on construction sites).
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Durability Tests
- Insole abrasion resistance ensures long-term comfort and support during extended wear.
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Classification System (SB to S5)
- SB (Basic): Minimal protection for low-risk environments.
- S1 to S5: Progressive enhancements (e.g., S3 adds water resistance and puncture protection).
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Design Requirements
- Closed-back construction to prevent debris entry and enhance foot coverage.
These benchmarks not only standardize safety footwear quality but also empower buyers to match boots to specific hazards. Have you considered how these criteria align with your workplace risks? Such standards quietly shape daily safety for millions of workers worldwide.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Requirement | Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Resistance | 200-joule toe protection, ankle support | Protects against falling objects and uneven surfaces |
| Slip Resistance | Tested on smooth/greasy surfaces | Critical for construction, food processing, and other slippery environments |
| Heat/Water Resistance | Wru (upper water resistance), Wr (full shoe waterproofing) | Essential for wet or high-temperature workplaces |
| Specialized Markings | A (anti-static), Fo (fuel-resistant), E (energy absorption), P (puncture-proof) | Tailored protection for chemical, automotive, or construction hazards |
| Durability | Abrasion-resistant insoles, closed-back design | Ensures long-term comfort and debris protection |
| Classification (SB-S5) | SB (basic) to S5 (max protection with water/puncture resistance) | Helps users select boots matched to their risk level |
Need EN ISO 20345-compliant safety boots tailored to your industry?
As a large-scale manufacturer, 3515 produces high-performance safety footwear for distributors, brands, and bulk buyers. Our boots meet all EN ISO 20345 benchmarks—from anti-slip soles to puncture-resistant designs—ensuring worker safety in hazardous environments.
Contact us today to discuss custom solutions for your workforce!
