To be compliant with the EN ISO 20345 standard, all safety footwear must, at a minimum, feature a toe cap capable of withstanding a 200-joule impact, an anti-slip sole suitable for smooth and greasy industrial surfaces, and a closed-back design. These foundational requirements are the baseline upon which more specific safety classifications are built.
The core purpose of EN ISO 20345 is not to create a single "one-size-fits-all" safety shoe, but to establish a clear classification system. Understanding the different 'S' ratings is the key to matching your specific workplace hazards with the correct, compliant level of protection.
The Foundation: Basic Requirements (SB)
Before exploring the more common "S" ratings, it's important to understand the baseline. Any footwear meeting the most fundamental requirements of the standard is labeled SB (Safety Basic).
200-Joule Toe Protection
This is the non-negotiable pillar of the standard. It means the reinforced toe region of the shoe can absorb 200 joules of impact energy—equivalent to a 20kg weight dropped from a height of one meter—before fracturing.
Slip Resistance
The outsole must pass standardized tests for slip resistance on ceramic tile surfaces with detergent and on steel floors with glycerol. This ensures a reliable grip in common industrial conditions.
Decoding the 'S' Ratings: From S1 to S5
The 'S' ratings build upon the SB foundation, adding layers of protection for progressively more hazardous environments. Each level inherits all the features of the one before it, unless otherwise specified.
S1: Protection for Dry Environments
An S1 shoe includes all the basic protections plus anti-static properties, a fuel/oil resistant outsole (Fo), and energy absorption in the heel region (E). It is designed for indoor work where there is no risk of water exposure or sharp object penetration.
S1P: Adding Puncture Resistance
The S1P rating is identical to S1 but adds a puncture-resistant midsole (P). This is critical for environments where stepping on nails, screws, or other sharp debris is a risk.
S2: Introducing Water Resistance
An S2 shoe incorporates all the features of an S1 but adds a water-resistant upper (Wru). It is suitable for work in damp conditions or outdoors where exposure to moisture is likely, but full waterproofing is not required.
S3: The Comprehensive All-Rounder
S3 is one of the most common and comprehensive ratings. It combines all the features of an S2 shoe (including water resistance) with the puncture-resistant midsole of an S1P. This makes it a versatile choice for high-risk environments like construction sites.
S4 & S5: Fully Waterproof Boots
S4 and S5 ratings apply to boots made entirely from a molded polymer or rubber, making them completely waterproof and leak-proof. An S4 boot has all the basic protections (200-joule toe cap, etc.). An S5 boot is the highest level of protection, adding a puncture-resistant midsole to the waterproof S4 design.
Understanding the Key Additional Markings
Beyond the main 'S' ratings, individual protective features are identified by their own codes. These are often combined to specify a shoe's capabilities.
P: Perforation Resistance
A steel or composite plate in the midsole protects the foot from being pierced by sharp objects from below.
E: Heel Energy Absorption
This feature provides shock absorption in the heel, reducing impact and fatigue during long periods of standing or walking.
A: Antistatic Properties
Antistatic footwear dissipates electrostatic charge to prevent sparks, which is crucial in environments with flammable materials or sensitive electronics.
Wru vs. Wr: Water Resistance
Wru refers to a water penetration and absorption-resistant upper, typical of S2 and S3 shoes. Wr indicates a water-resistant construction for the entire shoe, offering a higher level of protection against moisture.
Fo: Fuel/Oil Resistant Outsole
This indicates that the outsole will not degrade or lose its integrity when exposed to hydrocarbons like oil and gasoline.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Choosing the right safety shoe involves balancing protection with other practical factors. There is no single "best" option, only the most appropriate one for the task.
Protection vs. Comfort
Higher levels of protection, such as an S3 or S5 rating, often result in a heavier and more rigid shoe due to the inclusion of features like a puncture-resistant midsole. This can impact comfort and flexibility over a long workday.
Breathability in Waterproof Boots
While S4 and S5 boots offer superior protection from liquids, their molded rubber or polymer construction offers zero breathability. This can lead to discomfort and moisture buildup inside the boot during extended wear, especially in warm conditions.
Resistance vs. Proofing
It is critical to distinguish between "water-resistant" (S2/S3) and "waterproof" (S4/S5). A resistant shoe can handle splashes and damp environments, but it will not keep feet dry during prolonged immersion or in heavy rain.
How to Select the Right Safety Shoe for Your Role
Use your specific workplace hazards as the primary guide for selecting the correct EN ISO 20345 classification.
- If your primary focus is working indoors with low risk of fluid exposure: An S1 shoe provides the necessary impact and antistatic protection, while an S1P adds crucial protection from floor debris.
- If you work in damp conditions or frequently move between indoors and outdoors: You require at least an S2 shoe for its water resistance, or an S3 if nail or screw penetration is also a risk.
- If your work involves standing in water or constant exposure to liquids: Choose a fully waterproof S4 boot, and upgrade to an S5 if puncture hazards are present underfoot.
- If you work in construction, demolition, or other high-hazard environments: An S3-rated shoe is often the standard, as it provides a comprehensive combination of impact, water, and puncture resistance.
By understanding these classifications, you can confidently select footwear that provides precise, compliant protection for your specific work environment.
Summary Table:
| Rating | Key Features | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| SB | 200J toe cap, slip-resistant sole | Basic safety requirements |
| S1 | SB + antistatic, fuel/oil resistant sole, heel energy absorption | Indoor, dry environments |
| S1P | S1 + puncture-resistant midsole | Indoor with sharp debris risk |
| S2 | S1 + water-resistant upper (Wru) | Damp conditions, indoors/outdoors |
| S3 | S2 + puncture-resistant midsole | Construction, high-risk environments (most common) |
| S4 | Waterproof rubber/polymer boot (SB features) | Standing water, constant liquid exposure |
| S5 | S4 + puncture-resistant midsole | Highest protection: waterproof + puncture hazards |
Ensure Your Workforce is Fully Protected with 3515
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 encompass all types of safety shoes and boots, from basic SB to the highest S5 rating.
We help you source the exact right safety footwear for your specific industry hazards, ensuring compliance, worker safety, and comfort.
Ready to equip your team with certified safety footwear?
Contact our experts today for a consultation to discuss your requirements and get a quote.
Visual Guide
Related Products
- Safety Footwear Wholesale Manufacturer for Custom OEM/ODM Production
- Premium Flame-Retardant Waterproof Safety Boots and Shoes
- Premium KPU Injection Athletic Style Safety Shoes
- Heavy-Duty Waterproof Nubuck Safety Boots Safety Shoes for Bulk Supply
- High Performance Fire-Retardant Waterproof Safety Boots
People Also Ask
- What are OSHA approved shoes? Understanding the Correct Standards for Workplace Safety
- How do safety shoes contribute to cost savings for companies? A Strategic Investment in Risk and Cost Management
- What do heavy duty boots do? Protect Your Feet in Demanding Work Environments
- Is it normal to wear shoes in the house? A Guide to Hygiene, Comfort & Culture
- Is safety-toe as good as steel toe? Choose the Right Protection for Your Job
