What Features Should You Look for in Safety Footwear?
Toe protection (SB)
We all know that the toes are a very vulnerable part of the body — and even more so at work, where there are a number of hazards that could lead to a foot injury. At its most basic level, the EN ISO 20345 standard requires that toe protection must be able to withstand a 200-joule impact. Toe protection includes steel toe caps or lighter alternatives, such as composite or aluminium toe caps.
Antistatic protection (A, S1, S1P, S2, S3)
Clothing and climate factors can cause a buildup of static electricity in the body. Some materials used in the construction of safety footwear can over-insulate the body, causing the static charge to be held. When a worker touches something conductive, this charge can rush from the body quickly, causing a spark and a small uncomfortable shock. Anti-static footwear significantly reduces this effect.
Midsole penetration protection (SBP, S1P, S3, S5)
Sharp objects can be a significant hazard at work. Midsole protection can guard against nails and other sharp protrusions that could otherwise lead to disastrous consequences. In order to meet the requirements of the EN ISO 20345 standard, footwear midsoles must be able to resist a penetration force of 1100N. Midsole protection can be provided in one of two ways: a stainless steel or aluminium insert in the sole, or a Kevlar insole.
Energy absorption (E, S1, S1P, S2, S3)
This refers to energy absorption in the heel region.
Water resistance (WR, WRU, S2, S3)
Footwear may be classified as water resistant in general (WR), or they may have a water-resistant upper (WRU).
Heat resistance (HRO)
Heat-resistant footwear features an outsole which must be able to resist 300°C for 60 seconds.
Insulation against cold and heat (CI, HI)
For resistance against cold, EN ISO 20345 footwear is tested for 30 minutes at 1-20°C. For resistance against heat, footwear is tested for 30 minutes at 150°C.
Comfort!
If footwear provides adequate protection but is causing your workers harm or discomfort, they will be reluctant to wear them. Make sure you provide safety footwear that fits correctly from the start; contrary to popular belief, there should be no need to “break in” footwear. You can further increase comfort by providing employees with insole inserts and high-quality work socks. It’s a good idea to allow workers to try products first to see if they are comfortable and suitable for their task and work environment — after all, they will have to wear them all day!