Protecting feet against hazards in the workplace by choosing appropriate safety boots is key to keeping safe. The safety footwear you choose should meet legal standards and be appropriate for the task, the conditions and the environment in which you are working.
We understand that it can be confusing to decide which safety shoes are suitable for you, so we’ve put together this guide to explain the most important safety footwear standard EN ISO 20345 - 2011.
What is EN ISO 20345:2011?
The full name of this specification is EN ISO 20345:2011 Personal protective equipment — Safety footwear. which is the standard all styles of “safety footwear” are tested against.
- EN - This is the current applicable standard across Europe.
- ISO - International Organization for Standardization.
- 20345 - This is the assigned legislation number.
- 2011 - This is the year the safety standard around footwear was updated.
The EN ISO 20345:2011 standard sets more stringent minimum requirements than previous versions. It specifies that ALL safety footwear must have toe protection, and sets a standard of 200-joules impact-resistance (equivalent to a 20kg weight dropped 1,020mm onto the toes) and a 15KN compression test (equivalent to 1.5 tonnes resting on the toe area).
EN ISO 20345 Safety Ratings Overview
Resistance Ratings
- SRA: Tested on ceramic tile with sodium lauryl sulphate (a diluted soap solution)
- SRB: Tested on steel with glycerol
- SRC: Tested under SRA and SRB conditions
Additional Ratings
- C - Conductive
- A - Antistatic
- I - Insulation against electricity
- HI - Insulation against heat
- CI - Insulation against cold
- E - Energy absorbing seat region
- AN - Ankle protection
- HRO - Heat resistant outsole
- WR - Water resistant
- WRU - Water resistant upper
- M - Metatarsal protection
- CR - Cut resistant upper
- ESD - Electro-Static Discharge Resistant
Now you know what all the safety footwear ratings, standards and codes mean, you have no excuse for getting the wrong level of protection for your working environment.
Toe-protection is the minimum requirement for footwear to be classed as "safety", but there is a good chance you may require more. but the comfortable and breathable footwear is key to productivity.
If footwear provides adequate protection but is causing your workers harm or discomfort, they will be reluctant to wear them. Today more and more lightweight safety footwear is becoming available.
If you work with fuels or inflammables/flammables, you should use an anti-static and Oil & Chemical resistant footwear.
Working with electricity? You should consider electrical-resistant footwear.
Working in wet condition or chemical plant? You would need Safety Waterproof Wellington Boots.
Work with Food, in a Medical Lab or Clean Room? You will probably need a safety shoe that is Slip-Resistant, Washable and Lightweight.
Our range of EN ISO 20345 compliant safety footwear includes waterproof and breathable safety boots, non-slip safety footwear, safety shoes, heavy-duty work boots, safety wellingtons and many more styles. Have a look and upgrade your safety footwear today!
