During the transition period, safety footwear certified under the old EN ISO 20345:2011 standard will coexist on the market with footwear certified to the new EN ISO 20345:2022 standard. Products certified to the old standard remain fully valid, safe, and compliant for use until their certificate expires. You may even find identical shoe models with different standard markings depending on when they were certified.
The core principle to understand is that the transition is gradual. Safety footwear does not become unsafe or non-compliant overnight. Certification is key, and existing certificates for the older standard remain valid for their full term.
Navigating the Coexistence of Standards
The presence of two standards on the market can seem confusing, but it is a normal part of the certification lifecycle. This period exists to allow manufacturers time to update and recertify their products without causing supply chain disruption.
The Role of Certification Validity
A safety footwear certificate is typically valid for five years. This means a shoe certified in 2021 under the old EN ISO 20345:2011 standard is still fully compliant and can be sold until its certificate expires in 2026.
Manufacturer Timelines Drive the Transition
Manufacturers will transition their products to the new EN ISO 20345:2022 standard when an existing certificate is due for renewal. They are not required to immediately recall or recertify their entire product line.
An Example in Practice
This is why you may see the exact same model of safety shoe for sale with different markings. A size 39 might have been produced from a batch certified to the new 2022 standard, while a size 42 from existing stock was certified under the 2011 standard. Both are compliant.
Are "Old Standard" Shoes Still Safe?
The most critical question for any safety manager or user is whether footwear certified to the previous standard is still protective. The answer is unequivocally yes.
The Principle of Continued Compliance
If a product is certified to EN ISO 20345:2011, it has been tested and proven to meet a specific, high-level set of European safety requirements. The introduction of a new standard does not invalidate that fact.
Durability and Reliability are Unchanged
The physical durability and reliability of these shoes are not affected by the change in standards. A well-made shoe certified to the 2011 standard is just as robust as it was before the 2022 version was published.
Common Pitfalls and Considerations
While the transition is straightforward, being aware of the context helps avoid potential missteps in procurement and safety management.
The Purpose of the Update
Standards are periodically updated to incorporate new materials, address new workplace hazards, and refine testing methodologies. The 2022 standard introduces more granular testing, particularly for slip resistance, water protection, and perforation resistance, providing more specific performance data.
The Risk of Marking Confusion
The primary pitfall is confusion. Team members might question why two seemingly identical boots have different markings. The key is to educate them that both are valid and to check the product label for the specific standard it meets.
Do Not Discard Good Inventory
There is no need to discard existing inventory of footwear certified to the 2011 standard. This would be a needless expense, as the footwear remains compliant and safe for its intended use throughout its serviceable life.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
Your purchasing and management strategy should be guided by your specific operational needs, not by a fear of the older standard.
- If your primary focus is managing existing inventory: Your current stock certified under EN ISO 20345:2011 is safe and compliant to use as long as the products are in good condition.
- If your primary focus is purchasing new safety footwear: You can confidently purchase products certified to either standard, but new models will increasingly carry the EN ISO 20345:2022 certification with its more detailed performance codes.
- If your primary focus is future-proofing your specifications: Begin updating your internal procurement documents and risk assessments to reference the new codes and protections available under the EN ISO 20345:2022 standard.
Understanding this transition allows you to manage your safety footwear program with confidence, ensuring both compliance and worker protection.
Summary Table:
| Key Aspect | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| Transition Period | Footwear with old (2011) and new (2022) certifications coexist on the market. |
| Validity of Old Standard | Products certified to EN ISO 20345:2011 remain fully compliant until their certificate expires (typically 5 years). |
| Safety Assurance | Footwear under the old standard is just as safe and durable; the update does not invalidate its protection. |
| Purchasing Strategy | You can confidently buy from either standard; new purchases will increasingly feature the 2022 certification. |
Ensure a Seamless Transition to the Latest Safety Standards with 3515
Navigating standard changes can be complex, but your supply chain doesn't have to be. As a large-scale manufacturer, 3515 produces a comprehensive range of certified safety footwear for distributors, brand owners, and bulk clients. We ensure our partners are equipped with compliant products, whether certified to EN ISO 20345:2011 or the latest 2022 standard.
We provide:
- Expert Guidance: Clear information on certification status for every product.
- Supply Chain Stability: A seamless transition as standards evolve.
- Comprehensive Range: All types of safety shoes and boots to meet your specific needs.
Let us help you future-proof your safety footwear program.
Contact 3515 today to discuss your requirements and ensure continuous compliance.
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