EN ISO 20345 and EN ISO 20347 are both European standards for footwear, but they serve different purposes and industries. EN ISO 20345 is designed for safety footwear, requiring toe cap protection (200J impact resistance), antistatic properties, and protection against mechanical and thermal risks. It is typically used in high-risk environments like construction or manufacturing. EN ISO 20347, on the other hand, is for occupational footwear without toe caps, focusing on slip resistance, energy-absorbing heels, and antistatic properties, making it suitable for low-risk professions such as healthcare, hospitality, and cleaning. The key difference lies in the level of protection and the intended work environment.
Key Points Explained:
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Purpose and Classification:
- EN ISO 20345: Classified as safety footwear, it is mandatory for workplaces with significant mechanical or thermal hazards. It includes a protective toe cap (200J impact resistance) to shield against heavy objects.
- EN ISO 20347: Classified as occupational footwear, it is designed for environments where toe protection isn’t necessary but slip resistance and comfort are prioritized (e.g., hospitals, hotels).
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Key Requirements:
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EN ISO 20345:
- Toe cap protection (200J impact resistance).
- Antistatic properties to prevent static electricity buildup.
- Resistance to mechanical risks (puncture-resistant soles) and thermal hazards (heat/cold insulation).
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EN ISO 20347:
- No toe cap requirement.
- Slip-resistant outsoles for wet or oily surfaces.
- Energy-absorbing heels for comfort during prolonged standing.
- Antistatic properties (similar to EN ISO 20345).
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EN ISO 20345:
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Industries and Applications:
- EN ISO 20345: Ideal for construction, manufacturing, and heavy industry where foot injuries from falling objects or sharp debris are common.
- EN ISO 20347: Suited for service-oriented roles (healthcare workers, cleaners, hospitality staff) where slip resistance and ergonomic support are critical.
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Safety vs. Occupational Focus:
- EN ISO 20345 emphasizes protection (e.g., toe caps, puncture resistance).
- EN ISO 20347 emphasizes functionality (e.g., slip resistance, comfort for long shifts).
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Regulatory Context:
- Both standards ensure compliance with EU workplace safety regulations, but EN ISO 20345 meets stricter criteria due to its protective features.
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User Considerations:
- Purchasers should assess workplace hazards: toe caps are unnecessary in low-risk settings, making EN ISO 20347 more cost-effective and comfortable.
- For high-risk environments, EN ISO 20345 is non-negotiable to meet legal safety requirements.
By understanding these distinctions, buyers can select footwear that aligns with both regulatory demands and the practical needs of their workforce.
Summary Table:
| Feature | EN ISO 20345 (Safety Footwear) | EN ISO 20347 (Occupational Footwear) |
|---|---|---|
| Toe Cap Protection | Required (200J impact resistance) | Not required |
| Slip Resistance | Optional (depends on model) | Required for wet/oily surfaces |
| Antistatic | Yes | Yes |
| Primary Use | High-risk industries (construction) | Low-risk roles (healthcare, hospitality) |
| Key Focus | Protection (mechanical/thermal risks) | Comfort and functionality |
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