Not all safety shoes are created equal. To indicate how well work shoes protect against various workplace hazards, there is the EN ISO 20345 standard. This standard was overhauled in 2022, leading to the removal of some regulations and the introduction of new ones. Since wearing the right safety shoe is essential, we have outlined these changes for you.
The biggest change in EN ISO 20345:2022
The EN ISO 20345:2012 standard had some ambiguities, especially regarding waterproofing and penetration. For waterproofing, no distinction was made between just a water-resistant upper (WPA) or a truly water-repellent upper (WR). For penetration, it only stated whether the shoe was resistant to penetration or not. This has been expanded to different levels in the EN ISO 20345:2022.
The new main classification: S1 through S7
In the old system, the main classification ranged from S1 to S5, with S4 and S5 being so-called Class II products, namely PU, rubber, or plastic boots. The first thing that stands out in the new classification are S6 and S7, which are shoes or boots that are water-resistant. S2 work shoes or S4 boots that are water-resistant now receive the S6 classification, while S3 and S5 with a water-repellent upper become S7. If the work shoe meets WPA (Water Penetration and Absorption), it retains the S2 or S3 classification.
New standards regarding penetration
As previously mentioned, more distinction is now being made between different types of sole penetration. This includes differentiating between metal and non-metal soles and the size of the penetrating object.
- P - Metal anti-penetration sole
- PL (Large Nail Perforation) - Anti-perforation sole made of different material that provides protection against sharp objects with a diameter of 4.5mm
- PS (Perforation small nail) - Anti-perforation sole made of different material that provides protection against sharp objects with a diameter of 3mm
This addition was often seen with the S1 safety shoe and will only be found there. For the S3 and S7 work shoe, you will only find the L (large nail) or S (small nail). All our our Cratex pro line safety shoes live up to the S3S standard.
Updated anti-slip standards
Slip resistance used to be categorized as A, B, and C. A was anti-slip on ceramic floors combined with cleaning agents, B was tested with oil or grease, and C was tested with both. Since A is now a requirement for all safety shoes, only B remains as a test. If the shoe passes this test, it receives the Slip Resistance or SR rating. Much clearer!
Other changes in the standards
With the water resistance, penetration, and anti-slip features, the major changes have been discussed. Additionally, there are some more details to clarify which standards certain safety shoes meet:
- FO - Fuel Oil resistant or fuel resistant. This standard is no longer mandatory but can be added if the test has been successfully passed.
- SC - Scuff cap, also known as a wear-resistant toe cap, is also an optional addition.
- LG - Ladder grip, with a heel you reduce the risk of slipping when standing on a ladder. This is also an optional addition.
Cratex pro line safety shoes
The Cratex pro line safety shoes have the S3S SR FO standard. This means that the work shoes have a water-resistant upper and a non-metallic midsole that blocks sharp objects with a diameter of 3 mm. The shoes are also slip-resistant and fuel-resistant. Ideal for almost all types of work!
What will happen to EN ISO 20345:2012?
Don't worry, this standard can still be used for 5 years after the transition year 2022. So if your safety shoe is marked with the old standard, it will remain valid until 2027 at the latest. However, all new safety shoes must comply with the EN ISO 20345:2022 standard.